Lineworker Apprentice I-IV, Lineworker

The Lineworker Apprentice supports the City’s electric utility operations by assisting in the installation, maintenance, and repair of the electric distribution system under direct supervision. The role contributes to system reliability and public safety by supporting Lineworkers, operating equipment, trimming trees, and responding to electrical emergencies. It helps ensure consistent service delivery through regular crew rotations and coordinated field work. The position works under the guidance of crew members and Electric Distribution Supervisors to develop skills and support operational effectiveness.

The Lineworker Apprentice I shall work on the ground or climb only, may only operate an aerial bucket truck during training, and may work on voltages up to 240 volts with appropriate PPE.

The Lineworker Apprentice II may work on voltages up to 480-volt 3 phase secondary with appropriate PPE.

The Lineworker Apprentice III is authorized to work on energized primary voltages “Rubber Glove”, with appropriate PPE, only when a Lineworker is in the same Aerial Bucket with them.

The Lineworker Apprentice IV is authorized to work on energized primary voltages “Rubber Glove” with appropriate PPE, as long as a Lineworker is working in another Aerial Bucket on the same structure.

Lineworker
The Lineworker supports the reliability and safety of the City’s electric utility infrastructure by installing, maintaining, and repairing line equipment, meters, and streetlights, while ensuring uninterrupted service for residential and commercial customers. It plays a critical part in responding to outages and emergencies, preserving rights-of-way, and directing the work of apprentices to maintain operational excellence. Through technical expertise and teamwork, this position helps sustain essential services and advance the utility’s commitment to dependable power delivery.

The Lineworker works on all primary and secondary voltages.

The Lineworker Apprentice positions may include:

• Climbs poles to assist Lineworkers in grounding poles, hanging transformers and services. (I)
• Climbs poles to hang and maintain streetlights.(I)
• Perform voltage and meter can checks and set single phase electric meters.(I)
• Makes energized connections at the weather head on customer’s services.(I) 
• Operate an Aerial Bucket truck to connect single and three phase customer services.(II)
• Operate the Digger / Line Truck to Load, Dig and Set poles.(II)
• Assist in the terminations of CT Metering.(III)
• Splicing and termination medium voltage power cables.(III) 
• Assist is writing a switching order.(IV)
• Be able to correctly read a job drawing.(IV)
• Safely add or remove electrical equipment on poles.(IV)
• Is required to be “on call” on a rotating basis or as needed to meet business needs. (I, II, III, IV)

Lineworker

• Provide hands-on training and mentorship to Helpers and Apprentices, promoting safe and proficient work practices in pole climbing, line construction, framing techniques, and transformer connections.
• Install, remove, inspect, repair, and maintain overhead and underground electrical lines and associated equipment to ensure reliable service delivery.
• Locate and mark underground utility lines to support safe excavation and construction activities.
• Perform switching operations on primary feeders and substation equipment to support system reliability and maintenance.
• Identify and troubleshoot line issues, including faulty transformers and service disruptions, ensuring timely and effective resolution.
• Connect residential and commercial electrical services, ensuring compliance with safety standards and service requirements.
• Support electric service restoration efforts, including:
  • Troubleshooting and resolving unplanned outages.
  • Participating in safe and timely power restoration.
  • Communicating with customers regarding outages, complaints, and potential hazards.
• Install substation breakers and connections, and lead substation switching operations as needed.
• Operate and maintain specialized equipment, including line trucks, aerial lifts, digger trucks, chipper trucks, and pulling equipment; perform routine vehicle maintenance and minor repairs.
• Generate and execute power transformer and substation switching orders, ensuring safe and accurate system operations.
• Oversee supplemental contract labor and construction teams, ensuring work is completed according to standards and timelines.
• Participate in on-call rotations or respond to after-hours needs as required to support continuous service availability.
• Perform other related duties as assigned, contributing to the overall reliability and effectiveness of utility operations, including all responsibilities associated, with Lineworker Helper and Apprentice I–IV roles.

Lineworker Apprentice I-IV

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• A Class (A) Texas Commercial Driver’s License is required or must be obtained within 90 days of employment, if out of state.
• Must maintain a valid Texas Class (A) Commercial Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record.
• Basic computer skills to check emails and enter time worked are required.
• Shall be required to be “on call” on a rotating basis or as needed to meet business needs.
• Must be able to lawfully report to duty within 1 hour. 
• Experience - 
  • Lineworker Apprentice I- Minimum one year experience working as a Lineworker Helper. Must have successfully completed TEEX climbing class or equivalent.($28.22/hr.)
  • Lineworker Apprentice II- Must have successfully completed SMEU Apprentice I program requirements, or equivalent.($30.90/hr.)
  • Lineworker Apprentice III- Must have successfully completed SMEU Apprentice I and II program requirements, or equivalent.($33.60/hr.)
  • Lineworker Apprentice IV - Must have successfully completed SMEU Apprentice I, II, and III program requirements, or equivalent.($36.29/hr.)

*Note: Salary is dependent upon experience and position.

Lineworker

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Must have completed the SMTXU Apprentice program, or equivalent.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Texas Class (A) Commercial Driver’s License with a standard vehicle or obtain one within 90 days of employment, if from out of state.
• Must be able to lawfully report to duty within 1 hour.
• Must respond to calls for assistance with power outages on nights and weekends within one hour.
• Must live within one (1) hour of the City limits of San Marcos as determined by google maps.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES 

• Knowledge of job orders, specifications, and related work instructions needed to understand and perform assigned utility tasks.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication to support interactions with City staff, outside agencies, contractors, and utility customers.
• Skill in maintaining positive working relationships and contributing to a cooperative, professional work environment.
• Ability to work safely, professionally, and productively in a physically demanding field environment.
• Ability to work more than 40 hours per week when required, including responding on an on-call basis.
• Ability to perform duties under both general and direct supervision while contributing to reliable electric utility operations.

Salary : $55,328 - $71,136