Powerline Technician (Distribution District)

JOB SUMMARY :

The employee in this classification performs a variety of lineperson’s assignments involved in all aspects of the installation, construction, troubleshooting, repairing, specialized testing, maintenance, and ongoing inspection and maintenance of all overhead and underground distribution, transmission, switching station, substation and streetlight facilities and infrastructure.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES :

• Maintain, inspect, install and repair lines, substations, apparatus and services as well as the installation, maintenance and repair of overhead and underground lines and cables including lead sheathed and oil-insulated cables and terminations
• Maintain, inspect, construct, install and / or repair streetlight poles, streetlight units, relays, controls, ballasts and lamps, including the repair of underground an overhead streetlight faults
• Perform live line methods necessary to complete assigned work
• Conduct inspections of transmission lines and switching facilities by regular low level air and ground patrol and determine the location, cause, nature and extent of any maintenance required
• Diagnose overhead and underground line faults by conducting appropriate inspections and tests
• Test the electrical continuity and insulation qualities of repaired cables, as required
• Perform phasing to confirm line and transformer connections, as required
• Investigate the cause of electrical interference complaints and recommend appropriate actions, as required
• Determine routing and provide assistance for high load moves
• Perform connect, disconnect and / or collection procedures
• Interpret and implement engineering and / or manufacturer’s plans, drawings, construction specifications and standards related to the installation, modification, repair and operation of equipment
• Inspect construction and maintenance projects to ensure quality standards are maintained
• Investigate and asses customer complaints and recommend corrective courses of action
• Verify new equipment is installed to specification and conduct the necessary tests to place into service
• Issue and / or arrange for appropriate permits and perform switching, as authorized, in accordance with the Standard Protection Code
• Provide material estimates for maintenance and system improvements
• Ensure customer service requests, complaints, trouble calls and power quality issues are investigated and processed in a timely manner
• Maintain buildings, storage and substation yards, etc.
• Read meters, as required by the position
• Inspect, service and operate specialized equipment and tools
• Plan and conduct preventive maintenance programs and keep maintenance records
• Arrange for appropriate permits and develop and perform switching procedures as authorized
• Read, compile and maintain records and drawings associated with the position
• Adhere to applicable safety and environmental standards, regulations and corporate commitments
• Participate in continuous educational and professional development, as required
• Prepare cost estimates, as required
• Supervise apprentices and other staff, as required
• Maintain a clean and orderly work area
• Other related duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES :

• Interprovincial Journeyperson Powerline Technician Certificate, or equivalent
• Demonstrated ability to safely and competently perform power line work at the journeyed level
• Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the position
• Ability to cooperate and deal tactfully with others
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Valid Class 1A driver’s licence

This position falls within the scope of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Local 2067.