Job Classification : Non-exempt, Full-time

Who We Are :

FreeState is the largest rural electric cooperative in Eastern Kansas, with more than 15,000 member-owners. It functions as a democratic, not-for-profit organization.

We are controlled by our members who actively participate in setting cooperative policy and making decisions in the best interest of the cooperative.

Unlike investor-owned utilities, our profits are returned to our members as capital credits.

FreeState offers excellent benefits including :

• Generous pension plan
• 401(k) matched savings
• Medical, dental and vision insurance paid for at 100% for individual coverage and 90% for family coverage
• Health savings account with an annual generous employer contribution
• Life insurance, long-term disability, paid time off benefits, including paid holidays, and so much more.
• On-the-job safety training, professional development opportunities and an employee focused work culture

Each of our positions has a designated salary range. This position's starting wage is $29.18 / hr.

Primary Accountability :

The Apprentice 1 provides manpower, knowledge and workmanship which are necessary to perform related job duties for proper construction, maintenance, and operation of the electric system.

This position makes correct application and use of all materials and equipment furnished in order to provide efficient, reliable service to the member in the operation and maintenance of the electric system.

This position is the first level in a progressive, four-year, line apprentice training program.

Essential Duties :

• Acquires, through training, a basic understanding of construction specifications and becomes familiar with most phases of distribution line construction, equipment applications, tool application and equipment operations.
• Performs all required construction and maintenance on non-energized portions of the system.
• Permitted to work on an energized security light pole, under the direct supervision of a Journeyman Lineman, Lead Journeyman, or a Line Foreman.

Limited to a security light pole only.

• Develops skills in switching operations for maintenance and / or emergencies.
• Develops knowledge on how to read maps, prepare and interpret staking sheets and prepare required reports.
• Learns circuit and sectionalizing diagrams and becomes familiar with the proper operation and application of all sectionalizing devices used on the system.
• Acquires proficiency in the effective and safe operating methods in the use of rubber gloves and sleeves.
• Acquires, through training, a basic understanding of the operation of all electrical devices on the system.
• Develops skills and techniques of troubleshooting line deficiencies. Takes corrective measures within the limitations set forth in this job description.
• Learns and develops skills and knowledge in the placement of poles in and around energized lines.
• Acquires proficiency in the effective and safe operation of the extendo.
• Performs after-hour duty assignments and participates in the Cooperative's "on-call" rotation as directed by the supervisor.

Qualifications :

• A High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Degree in electrical power and distribution or equivalent is preferred.
• Must complete the Merchants Training Program and Field Skills Evaluation as set out in the Apprentice Lineman Program.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and electrical line construction knowledge is required.
• Upon hire, obtainment of Fort Leavenworth access pass is required.

Physical Demands :

• Frequently requires talking, hearing, standing, walking, pulling / pushing, reaching, crawling, squatting, climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, lifting, and good hand / finger dexterity.
• Frequently lifts and / or moves up to fifty (50) pounds and occasionally lifts and / or moves up to one hundred (100) pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
• Limited exposure to chemicals, oil, gasoline and dirt as long as proper Personal Protective Equipment is used, and Safety Rules are followed.

Work Environment :

• Frequently exposed to high, precarious places, outside weather conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, and risk of electrical hazard.
• Exposure to poison oak, ivy and sumac is likely.
• Occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes, or airborne particles, and vibration.
• Moderate noise level.
• Regular, reliable attendance is required.
• This position is subject to on-call as required which may include night, weekend and / or holiday work. Employees are required to report to the Cooperative within thirty (30) minutes after receiving notice.
• Ability to travel to attend meetings, trainings, workshops, and seminars, as directed.

How to Apply :

If you would like to apply for this position, please visit to comple te an Application for Employment.

FreeState is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Last updated : 2024-06-05