Electrical Distribution Electrician

The University of Texas at Austin•Austin, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Utilities and Energy Management at The University of Texas at Austin is seeking an Electrical Distribution Electrician to install, operate, maintain, and repair campus electrical distribution systems. The position requires demonstrated expertise in electrical construction and maintenance, particularly underground systems and low- and medium-voltage switchgear. The electrician must work safely on energized and de-energized systems, interpret technical drawings, and perform complex field operations with minimal supervision. Work includes switchgear and breaker testing and servicing; installation, pulling, splicing, and termination of underground medium-voltage cable; installation of low-voltage wire; and work on exposed and overhead distribution systems. Designated personnel climb poles, towers, and other elevated structures. The employee updates record drawings, creates switching orders, reviews design proposals and specifications, documents maintenance and asset information in UT-Works CMMS, and communicates effectively. The role also includes operating utility vehicles and equipment and performing other related duties as assigned. Required training certification must be obtained within 24 months. The position is based in Austin, Texas, with a 40-hour Tuesday–Friday schedule from 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Employees participate in an on-call program and may work extended shifts, including nights, holidays, and weekends. Work may take place outdoors in all weather and extreme temperatures, as well as in confined spaces, tunnels, manholes, and elevated locations. The job involves physical demands, electrical and mechanical hazards, and required use of personal protective equipment. Uniforms and a university-issued cell phone are required.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least three years of experience in the electric utility field.
A Journeyman Lineman or Journeyman Electrician license with advanced overhead and underground electrical installation and maintenance skills, or competence in medium-voltage electrical systems and professional mastery of utility line construction and repair.
Accuracy in developing record drawings and equipment specifications.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
Class C operator’s driver’s license; selected applicant must provide a current three-year driving record.
Ability to work in all weather conditions and participate in on-call work and overtime as requested.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting and carrying heavy loads, working in confined spaces, and performing elevated work.
Ability to work safely around electrical, mechanical, chemical, explosive, and other workplace hazards and use required personal protective equipment.
Must maintain an acceptable driving record under UT Systems Policy UTS157.
If not currently a Texas resident, must obtain a Texas driver’s license within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.
Successful completion of required background checks and physical abilities testing.

Nice To Haves

Five years of experience installing and maintaining switchgear and distribution systems.
Completion of a formal line worker apprentice program.
Equivalent military electrical or power distribution training.

Responsibilities

Install, operate, maintain, and repair low- and medium-voltage metal-enclosed and metal-clad switchgear in campus electrical distribution systems.
Perform functional and diagnostic testing, inspect and service breakers, and follow electrical safety standards and operating procedures.
Install, pull, splice, and terminate medium-voltage underground cables, including lead-jacketed and EPR-insulated cables.
Install, operate, and maintain underground distribution systems, including duct banks, manholes, vaults, raceways, grounding, and protective systems.
Install and pull low-voltage wire as required.
Perform work on exposed and overhead electrical distribution systems, including raceway and insulated and non-insulated cable systems.
Climb poles, towers, and other elevated structures, when designated, to install, maintain, and repair electrical components and low-voltage lighting systems.
Update record drawings and create switching orders.
Review and evaluate design proposals and specifications for feasibility.
Document maintenance activities, inspections, system conditions, work orders, asset information, and service histories electronically in UT-Works CMMS.
Communicate verbally and electronically with others.
Operate forklifts, bobcats, backhoes, bucket trucks, cable trailers, cable-pulling devices, personnel lifts, and other equipment; drive a UT vehicle.
Use standard hand tools and electrical testing equipment, including digital volt-ohm meters, high-voltage testers, high-pots, and megohmmeters.
Maintain an acceptable driving record, wear required uniforms, and carry a university-issued cell phone during work and on-call hours.
Participate in the on-call program and work extended shifts, including nights, holidays, and weekends, as required.
Complete required training certification within 24 months.
Perform other related functions as assigned.

Benefits

Health benefits with employee premiums covered at 100% and family premiums at 50%.
Voluntary vision, dental, life, and disability insurance options.
Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays.
Teachers Retirement System of Texas defined-benefit retirement plan with employer matching funds.
Additional voluntary retirement programs, including Tax Sheltered Annuity 403(b) and Deferred Compensation 457(b).
Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses.
Free training access through LinkedIn Learning and professional conference opportunities.
Tuition assistance.
Employee discount program, including athletic tickets.
Free access to UT Austin libraries and museums with staff ID.
Free rides on UT shuttle and Austin CapMetro buses with staff ID.