Entry Level Lineworker

University of Texas at Austin • Austin, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This is an apprentice-level position focused on the installation, operation, maintenance, modification, repair, and evaluation of electrical power distribution systems, and outdoor, area, street, recreation, and sports lighting. The role involves learning and applying skills under the guidance of qualified personnel, with a strong emphasis on safety and adherence to established procedures. The position requires physical abilities testing and background checks, and offers competitive benefits and retirement plans through the University of Texas at Austin.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and interest in electrical utility work.
• Demonstrate ability to work well within a team environment.
• Ability to demonstrate excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Related apprentice-level experience in the operation and maintenance of electrical, instrumentation and control systems for mechanical, electrical and industrial or commercial equipment.
• Hold a current Texas apprentice electrician license or attain one within 2-months from hire on date.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
• Class "C" operator's driver's license.
• Provide a current three year driving record from the current state of residence.
• If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.
• Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
• Work on call, and overtime as requested.
• Work on elevated structures.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces, tunnels and manholes with energized cables, and extended shifts including nights, holidays, and weekends.

Nice To Haves

• Certificate or Associate degree in Electrical Power Technology, Utility Line Technology, or related field.
• Prior experience in construction, utilities, or electrical work.
• Completion of basic electrical or safety training (OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid).
• Distribution training.

Responsibilities

• Assist in underground cable installation, pulling, splicing, and terminations for lead-jacketed and EPR insulated cables.
• Support switching, tagging, and grounding activities under the direction of qualified line workers, install and pull LV wire as required.
• Assist in the installation, maintenance, and repair of overhead and underground electrical distribution lines, including poles, conductors, transformers, and associated equipment.
• Learn proficiency in working with overhead electrical distribution systems and other elevated structures to assist in installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical components and low-voltage lighting systems.
• Perform basic electrical and mechanical tasks, including digging, trenching, material handling, and equipment setup.
• Learn and follow established safety rules, work methods, and clearance procedures, including OSHA, NESC, and NFPA 70E requirements.
• Operate forklift, bobcat, backhoe, bucket truck, cable trailer, cable pulling devices, and assorted personnel lifts.
• Drive UT vehicle.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, and line equipment in a safe and effective manner.
• Learn to accurately document maintenance activities, inspections, and system conditions including timely entry, updating, and tracking of work orders, asset information, within UT-Works the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
• Participate in formal training, safety meetings, and apprenticeship coursework as assigned.
• Maintains an acceptable driving record as required by UT Systems Policy UTS157.
• Required to wear uniforms and carry University issues cell phone during work and on call hours.
• Assist with outage restoration and emergency response activities, including after-hours and on-call assignments.
• Perform other related functions as assigned.
• Follow all University and UEM safety policies and procedures, take required safety training, and identify and report safety hazards to appropriate personnel.
• Perform work tasks in a safe manner, wear the proper personal protective equipment, and report near misses and incidents to appropriate personnel.
• Carry a UT-provided cell phone during work hours and on-call hours and respond to calls received.
• Drive a UT vehicle, and maintain an acceptable driving record as required by UT System Policy UTS157.

Benefits

• Competitive health benefits (employee premiums covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%)
• Voluntary Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance options
• Generous paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Teachers Retirement System of Texas, a defined benefit retirement plan, with 8.25% employer matching funds
• Additional Voluntary Retirement Programs: Tax Sheltered Annuity 403(b) and a Deferred Compensation program 457(b)
• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses
• Robust free training access through LinkedIn Learning plus professional conference opportunities
• Tuition assistance
• Expansive employee discount program including athletic tickets
• Free access to UT Austin's libraries and museums with staff ID card
• Free rides on all UT Shuttle and Austin CapMetro buses with staff ID card

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED