Underground Lineman (A, B, & C)

About The Role

The Underground Lineman is responsible for the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and restoration of underground electrical distribution systems. Depending on experience and qualifications, employees may be assigned at the Lineman C, B, or A level. This position supports the construction and maintenance of underground utility infrastructure including primary and secondary cable systems, conduit, transformers, switchgear, and associated distribution equipment. Employees are expected to work safely, maintain high-quality workmanship, and support emergency restoration operations as needed.

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and remove underground distribution facilities and equipment.
• Install underground cable, conduit systems, transformers, switchgear, conductors, and associated electrical equipment.
• Perform cable pulling, cable replacement, terminations, splicing preparation, testing, fault locating, and restoration activities.
• Operate company vehicles and utility construction equipment including excavators, digger derricks, cable pullers, vacuum excavators, trenchers, and related specialty equipment.
• Support and perform switching operations, load transfers, outage restoration, and clearance procedures in accordance with company and customer requirements.
• Read and interpret construction drawings, staking sheets, system maps, blueprints, and work orders.
• Conduct inspections of tools, equipment, rubber goods, and safety devices and ensure compliance with testing requirements.
• Assist with trenching, excavation, backfilling, site restoration, and jobsite preparation activities.
• Respond to power outages and other emergency situations to safely restore service.
• Maintain accurate records related to inspections, repairs, and completed work.
• Follow all OSHA, NESC, company, and customer safety policies and procedures.
• Support storm response and emergency restoration efforts, including extended travel and overtime when required.
• Provide training, mentoring, and development support to less experienced crew members as qualifications allow.

Classification Levels

Underground Lineman C
Entry-level underground lineworker. Works under direct supervision. Assists with installation, maintenance, and repair activities. Develops knowledge of underground distribution systems, equipment, and safety practices. Supports crews by preparing materials, equipment, and work areas.

Underground Lineman B
Intermediate-level underground lineworker. Performs routine underground construction and maintenance tasks with limited supervision. Demonstrates competency in equipment installation, cable work, fault locating, and restoration procedures. Assists in training less experienced employees.

Underground Lineman A
Journeyman-level underground lineworker. Performs advanced troubleshooting, switching, fault locating, splicing support, and equipment installation activities. Provides technical leadership and mentoring to crew members. Leads complex underground construction and maintenance activities while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

Lineman C

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Ability to obtain a CDL Class A license.
• Utility construction, electrical, or related field experience preferred.

Lineman B

• High school diploma or GED.
• CDL Class A required.
• Two or more years of underground utility or electrical distribution experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of underground distribution construction methods and safety practices.

Lineman A

• High school diploma or GED.
• CDL Class A required.
• Journeyman Lineman certification or equivalent experience preferred.
• Five or more years of underground distribution construction, maintenance, and restoration experience preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of underground distribution systems, switching procedures, fault locating, and utility safety practices.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to safely work around energized and de-energized electrical systems.
• Ability to read and understand technical documents, procedures, drawings, and utility standards.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and customer service.
• Ability to work under pressure during outage restoration and emergency events.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and uneven terrain.
• Ability to work extended hours, nights, weekends, and holidays when required.

Work Environment

Work is performed primarily outdoors in construction and utility environments. Employees may be exposed to energized electrical equipment, excavation activities, extreme weather conditions, traffic hazards, and other construction-related risks. Travel, overtime, and storm restoration assignments are regularly required.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $23-$45 hourly, plus per diem which varies based on location. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and overall fit for the role.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options where applicable
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Company-paid holidays
• Short and long-term disability