Distribution Technician

Job Title: Distribution Technician

Job Description

The Distribution Technician performs field-based inspections and surveys of overhead and underground electrical distribution facilities and equipment. This role focuses on collecting accurate field data, documenting conditions, and supporting maintenance and storm assessment activities. The position is primarily field-based, requires daily travel within a multi-hour radius of Syracuse, and offers opportunities to grow into design-focused responsibilities over time.

Responsibilities

• Perform detailed visual inspections of overhead and underground electrical distribution facilities and equipment.
• Conduct field surveys of distribution poles, typically surveying approximately 75 poles per day depending on terrain and site conditions.
• Collect field data, including measurements, site conditions, and photographic documentation of distribution poles and related infrastructure.
• Prepare and submit minor work orders based on field observations and identified maintenance needs.
• Compile accurate maintenance and inspection reports using collected field data.
• Assist with storm damage assessments for overhead and underground distribution structures, documenting damage and conditions in a timely manner.
• Upload and manage field data and photos using company-approved tools and systems.
• Operate vehicles and field equipment safely while traveling to and from job sites within a multi-hour radius of Syracuse.
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and external stakeholders to clarify work requirements and report findings.
• Work independently in the field with minimal supervision once trained, consistently producing accurate and reliable results.
• Collaborate with office-based staff to support design, planning, and follow-up work stemming from field surveys.
• Apply basic understanding of utility locating, power distribution, and construction practices while performing field assessments.
• Use technical documentation such as blueprints and basic design drawings to support accurate field surveys.
• Support telecom and broadband-related field activities, including work associated with 3rd Party Make Ready and outside plant (OSP) design, as applicable.

Essential Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills to document field findings and interact with internal teams and external contacts.
• Ability to work independently in the field and as part of a team in both field and office environments.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy when performing surveys, taking photos, and collecting data.
• Comfort working 100% in the field, including frequent travel and outdoor work in varying conditions.
• Ability to drive to job sites and travel daily within approximately a 3 hour radius of Syracuse, with some overnight travel required.
• Proficiency in conducting field surveys and collecting technical data related to electrical distribution poles and equipment.
• Basic understanding of power distribution and related utility infrastructure.
• Capability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings at a basic level.
• Trustworthiness and reliability to work independently in the field and consistently meet productivity expectations.
• Ability to operate field equipment and tools safely and effectively.
• Comfort with using digital tools or systems to upload and manage photos and survey data.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with 3rd Party Make Ready work in telecom is preferred.
• Associate degree in Electrical Power Technology or a similar engineering-related discipline is preferred.
• Experience in broadband design or outside plant (OSP) design is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with the National Joint Utilities Notification System (NJUNS) is preferred but not required.
• Prior field work experience in surveying, construction, equipment operation, or related technical fieldwork is beneficial.
• Experience using AutoCAD or similar design software is a plus.
• Experience in utility locating or related utility field services is advantageous.
• Interest in transitioning into a design role over time is welcomed, although prior design experience is not required for this position.

Work Environment

This role is 100% field-based, with daily travel to distribution sites within approximately a 3 hour radius of Syracuse, including locations such as Buffalo, Massena, and Binghamton. The technician spends the majority of the day outdoors, conducting surveys and inspections of overhead and underground electrical distribution facilities and poles in a variety of weather and terrain conditions. A company vehicle is provided for travel to job sites, and drive time is paid. When job sites are more than about two hours from Syracuse, hotel accommodations are provided at no cost, and a daily food allowance is available. Team members may choose to return home instead of staying overnight and still receive pay for drive time. The work culture emphasizes trust and autonomy, with minimal micromanagement and a focus on results and accountability. The environment supports growth into design-focused roles for those who gain sufficient experience and demonstrate aptitude, while maintaining a strong need for reliable field technicians who are comfortable working independently and spending their time on-site.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Liverpool, NY.

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Liverpool,NY.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 20, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $22 - $23