Line Helper

Position represented by: IBEW 77

The Line Helper is an entry-level position in which their main function is to assist line workers with building, maintaining and repairing the District’s electrical system. Job assignments may entail very physical manual labor, heavy lifting, equipment operating, Class A vehicle driving, working in rough terrain and inclement weather day or night.  Groundman generally work under the supervision of a Lineworker but still work in a hazardous trade so sound decision making and good judgment is imperative. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES

• Assists linemen in construction, maintenance and repair of electric power transmission and distribution lines.
• Performs all types of manual labor maintaining proper clearance from electric hazards.
• Recognizes high voltage hazards.
• Work regularly consists of digging holes, loading and unloading trucks, ground support for linemen and assisting linemen with splicing wire and framing poles.
• Properly rigs loads and lines for lifting and pulling.
• Sends tools and materials to linemen as requested.
• Operates lift trucks, line trucks and auxiliary equipment.
• Installs anchors.
• Falls trees and dispose of brush by chipping, burning, or hauling away.
• Drives all types of utility trucks.
• Understand and follows safety rules.
• Use sound judgement in making decisions.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist warehouse when needed.
• Upgrade to perform functions of an Equipment Operator when needed.
• Responds and works in conditions other than the normal workday as required.

Standard Workplace Expectations: 

• Contribute to a successful work group by listening to and taking time to understand suggestions and concerns of co-workers. Offer constructive suggestions and ideas that help the team meet or exceed objectives and goals by accepting and supporting team decisions. Maintain a positive and cooperative attitude in the workplace.
• Determine appropriate priorities to balance workload to meet deadlines. Seek assistance when needed.  
• Review work for accuracy to detect or prevent errors or mistakes that could prove costly or could jeopardize the operations of the PUD.   
• Work additional hours as necessary to achieve departmental goals as requested and authorized by the supervisor.  
• Maintain appropriate behavior, appearance and effort.   
• Regularly take the initiative needed to recommend changes in work methods, policies, and procedures to improve levels of service delivery and overall operating efficiencies.  

Maintain regular and punctual attendance.  

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent required

CERTIFICATIONS

• Must have, or the ability to obtain a First Aid Card with CPR.
• Must have, or the ability to obtain a Washington State Flagger’s Certification Card.
• Must have a valid Driver’s License and have a Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) with no air brake restrictions.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must pass a standard criminal background check. A standard Monday through Friday work schedule is expected to be maintained, but evening and weekend hours may occasionally be required.