Engineering Assistant

BrightRidge • Johnson City, TN

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Assist in the design and survey of new power lines and upgrading of existing power lines in compliance with national, state and local electrical codes. Create construction prints, plan and profile drawings, and one-line system drawings using AutoCad, ESRI ArcMap, and other software packages. Provide and maintain electric service in a safe, reliable and efficient manner. Provide daily assistance to Field Engineers.

Requirements

• Must be proficient in the use of the latest version of AutoCAD.
• Must be proficient in the use of the latest versions of Windows and Microsoft Office.
• Must have the ability to read and understand plans and construction drawings such as state road construction and development site plans.
• Must gain working knowledge of power line construction materials and assemblies.
• Must obtain a working knowledge of the power system and the terrain to have the ability to act as a guide for contract crews working on power restoration.
• Must gain a working knowledge of the power system and construction practices in order to evaluate major storm damage and provide restoration information.
• Ability to learn electrical power line specifications.
• Must have knowledge of system's service area, policies and procedures.
• Must be able to operate electronic surveying instruments.
• Must be able to calculate power line profiles, guying strengths, sagging charts, etc.
• Must possess effective communication skills.
• Must have good mathematical skills.
• Must maintain a valid drivers' license from state of residence.

Nice To Haves

• An Associate degree in a related Engineering or technical discipline or equivalent experience is preferred.
• A background in GIS mapping is preferred.
• One to two years' prior experience with an electric utility engineering department will be considered a plus.
• Previous experience in land surveying using GNSS surveying equipment is desired.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Field Engineers in field data collection, line design, staking, and creation of construction documents and drawings using NISC, ESRI ArcMap, AutoCAD, PLS-CADD, and other related software packages.
• Create work orders in NISC Financials.
• Create, update, and maintain one-lines and other drawings using AutoCad and other related software for the electric distribution and transmission systems.
• Assist customers by providing information on BrightRidge policies and procedures related to providing service and line construction.
• Operate GNSS surveying instrument, GPS receiver, and IKE device for surveying and pole data collection related to line rebuilds, new construction, and make-ready projects.
• Assist in obtaining right-of-way for the construction of new power and fiber optic lines and other BrightRidge facilities.
• Ensure compliance with national, state and local safety codes.
• Make visual inspection of facilities for defects, proper clearance and potential safety hazards.
• Assist E.I.S. group in the proper placement of new and existing power lines and plats on the mapping system using ESRI ArcMap, AutoCAD, and other related software.
• Determine loading on existing transformers utilizing NISC data.
• Provide notification and location maps to Vegetation Management Coordinators as needed for tree trimming / removal purposes.
• Prepare engineering related documents or computer processing, as needed.
• Ability to maintain reliable, predictable and reasonable attendance.
• Answer Engineering Department telephone as needed.
• Assist in restoration efforts in times of power outage.
• Must maintain a valid drivers' license from state of residence.
• Perform other duties as requested or assigned.
• Must be available for after hours work which would include working fair share of all necessary overtime.

Benefits

• This role offers a structured pathway for professional advancement within the Field Engineering team. Employees who demonstrate strong performance, complete required training, and show readiness for increased responsibility may progress into higher‑level positions over time. This progression model supports long‑term career development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree