Line Worker/Substation Technician

Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is a municipally owned electric and telecom utility serving approximately 13,000 electric and 3,000 fiber customers. With a team of 55 dedicated employees, we are committed to delivering reliable, innovative, and community-focused services to the residents and businesses of Traverse City.

Position Overview
TCLP is seeking a Line Worker/Substation Technician to perform specialized testing, maintenance, and inspection of high-voltage electric substation systems, including equipment operating at voltages up to 138 kV. This role involves advanced troubleshooting, system upgrades, and overseeing contractors to ensure project success. The individual is expected to maintain a thorough understanding of modern substation protection and control devices, transmission and distribution facilities, and applicable regulatory standards.

This position will also be expected to perform the duties of a Journeyman Line Worker as needed/directed.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform advanced electrical maintenance, construction, and testing of substation equipment, including transformers, relays, circuit breakers, switches, and SCADA systems operating at voltages up to 138 kV.
• Lead contractor oversight, ensuring compliance with scope, safety standards, and technical specifications.
• Conduct root cause analysis of substation equipment failures and recommend corrective actions.
• Perform comprehensive substation inspections, data collection, and reporting for system optimization.
• Review and update substation, distribution, and transmission system schematics, maps, and records.
• Perform inspections of distribution and transmission systems, including vegetation management assessments, to mitigate potential hazards.
• Provide technical guidance and on-the-job training to junior staff and contractors.
• Ensure compliance with NERC/FERC, OSHA, and NFPA 70E standards.
• Identify and implement energy-efficient measures and grid modernization initiatives.
• Perform Journeyman Line Worker duties on energized and de-energized lines as outlined in the Line Worker “A” job description as needed or directed. This may include, but not limited to, emergency work or assigned work to ensure Journeyman Line Worker skills are maintained.

Qualifications

• Educational requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent. Completion of TCLP’s Substation Technician Certification program within 2 years of hire.
• Must have all of the qualifications of a Journeyman Line Worker including a Journeyman Line Worker card.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in electric utility construction, substation maintenance, or high-voltage systems. Preferred experience at a municipal electric utility.
• Must have and maintain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) Class A with airbrake endorsement.
• Experience working with energized components up to 138kV volts.

Why TCLP?

• Be part of a mission-driven organization that directly impacts your community.
• Enjoy a collaborative, supportive work culture with a strong focus on employee well-being.
• Competitive compensation and benefits including health insurance, 100% employer paid dental and vision insurance, 10% employer contribution to a 457 deferred compensation retirement plan, and a 7% contribution to a defined contribution retirement plan.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.

To view a detailed job description, additional minimum qualifications, and to apply visit https://jobs.tclp.org/careers/. The position is open until filled.

TCL&P is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
A diverse team makes a strong team. As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, we are strongly committed to creating a dynamic and equitable workforce that mirrors the community and world that we serve. TCL&P encourages people from all backgrounds to apply.

Substation, Lineman, Utility, Distribution, Technician

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $51.37 - $57.02 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Relocation assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

License/Certification:

• CDL A (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $51 - $57