Lineman Apprentice - El Paso, TX

Job purpose

The Rio Grande Electric Cooperative Inc. (RGEC) Lineman Apprenticeship Program is a comprehensive 5-year program designed to provide extensive training and hands-on experience for aspiring linemen. This program aims to equip employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of electrical line work. Through a combination of on-the-job training, distance-learning curriculum through manuals (associated with ANSI and OSHA) and study guide activities, and off-site training courses, employees will learn about safety protocols, electrical systems, and the latest industry standards.

Duties and responsibilities

The 5-year apprenticeship program consists of 8 Steps. The initial six (6) Steps have a duration period of six (6) months each, while the final two steps are each one year. To progress to the next step in the program, employees must demonstrate satisfactory job performance and fulfill the position requirements set forth in the program curriculum. Extensions may be granted based on supervisor’s recommendation and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) approval. Employees are required to strictly follow the curriculum outlined in the program and adhere to each specified Step in consecutive order to successfully progress. (See Progression for full details)

Qualifications

• Must reside or be willing to relocate within proximity to their assigned duty station. 
• Must reside or lodge within thirty (30) minutes of their designated duty station while on Stand By or On Call in accordance with policy. (El Paso/Dell City duty station requirements may differ.)
• Must have successfully completed an accredited lineman college course; or at least six (6) months of prior lineman work experience in electric utility distribution operations, including distribution system construction and maintenance.
• Valid Class A Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) (Intrastate may be temporarily accepted for specific service areas.)
• Must be a Qualified Employee certified in Pole Top Rescue, Bucket Rescue, Digger and Aerial Device Operation, and Wood Pole Climbing, or obtain certifications within six (6) months of hire.
• Certification in first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automatic external defibrillation (AED) is required or must be obtained.
• Proficiency in interpreting system maps and staking sheets, regardless of their format.
• Capability to acquire comprehensive knowledge of various types of metering.
• Required to learn to operate assigned equipment, including but not limited to bucket trucks, digger trucks, lift trucks, forklift, trencher, winches, drills, chainsaws, and high compression tools.
• Comply with the provisions of policy regarding the operation of weight-restricted equipment.
• Knowledge of Microsoft 365 products; ability to learn Cooperative’s computer software programs.
• Knowledge of communication technology (i.e. internet, email, satellite radio).
• Must meet the eligibility requirements for auto insurance coverage under the Cooperative's insurance provider.
• Requires proficiency in oral and written communication in English.
• Perform basic mathematical computations.
• Must possess good interpersonal skills, including the ability to maintain a harmonious working relationship with all Cooperative employees, the members and the public.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Learn and comply with RGEC’s safety rules, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of basic technical utility skills: prior experience and certification is required to qualify for Apprentice II and higher; training requirements and experience are required to move from one step to another.
• Program acknowledgement required upon hire.

Working conditions

• Ability to work under adverse weather conditions, including extreme heat or cold, high winds, or stormy conditions.
• Availability for "Stand By", "On Call", and emergency situations.
• Willingness to work overtime as needed.
• Flexibility to travel away from home during emergencies or when support from another office is necessary.
• Capability to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical requirements

• Operate around noisy equipment and visually inspect work to ensure safe connections.

• Maintain sufficient health to perform essential job functions, duties, and responsibilities; meet Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certification requirements.
• Demonstrate the ability to work from an elevated platform; lift and pull cable; dig with a shovel; and proficiently use hand tools. This includes frequently pulling cable and rope, as well as climbing ladders and poles.
• The job requires climbing, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, and carrying weights. Frequently lift materials and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. and occasionally lifting items weighing up to 100 lbs.
• Requires sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods. Able to traverse uneven and/or rugged terrain on foot and/or by vehicle.
• Possess quick and accurate hand-eye coordination.
• Pre-employment, post-accident, reasonable cause, and random drug and alcohol tests are conducted to ensure a drug-free and alcohol-free working environment for all employees.

Direct reports

• n/a

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Rio Grande Electric Cooperative, Inc. (RGEC) was organized in 1945 to enhance the quality of life for rural residents by providing electric service where none existed. Today, at over 35,000 square miles, RGEC has the largest service territory of any electric cooperative in the contiguous United States, serving 18 counties in Texas, and two counties in New Mexico. While it still serves rural areas, many metropolitan areas have expanded into RGEC’s territory, which now includes hospitals, schools, and urban housing developments.

The Cooperative was also selected by the military to be the electrical maintenance provider for Fort Bliss, El Paso, and Laughlin Air Force Base, Del Rio. RGEC maintains offices in Alpine, Brackettville, Carrizo Springs, Dell City, El Paso, and Fort Stockton, with the Brackettville office serving as corporate headquarters.

Mission

RGEC is committed to providing its members safe and reliable energy services through the efficient use of resources, highly skilled employees, and technology.

Motto

Empowering communities, enhancing lives.

Values & Vision

RGEC proudly serves members based on a foundation of integrity and excellence, while striving for the betterment of communities and quality of life for those in the region it is privileged to serve.

Seven Cooperative Principles

Voluntary and Open Membership | Democratic Member Control | Members’ Economic Participation

Autonomy and Independence | Education, Training and Information | Cooperation Among Cooperatives | Concern for Community

Rio Grande Electric Cooperative, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer.