Electric Distribution Line Designer

Pre-requisites

Education: Minimum of a High School diploma or equivalent; Associate degree in Electrical Technology or a related technical field is preferred.

Experience: Must have a minimum of three years’ experience in a technical capacity (electric utility or surveying experience).

Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to use math and computer for cost estimates and mapping.
• Ability to use surveying equipment proficiently.
• Must have the ability to learn the tariff and policies that apply to line construction.
• Must have or quickly gain the skills and knowledge to create, review, and modify electronic versions of line design sheets and maps utilizing Medina’s line design software.
• Ability to use a Global Positioning System (GPS) device to accurately acquire coordinates.
• Ability to read and utilize RUS and MEC Construction Specifications.
• Must have the physical strength and stamina to perform duties required.
• Must possess a pleasing personality and effective communication skills (both written and verbal) while interacting with customers, Cooperative personnel and the general public.
• Must be able to use Microsoft Office Applications and Cooperative business software.

Other Requirements: Must have a valid Texas driver’s license.

The following are essential functions of this position and not intended to be all inclusive. An employee may be directed to perform other reasonably related job duties and responsibilities. MEC reserves the right to revise or change the job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. The position description will be updated accordingly. This position description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Typical Responsibilities Include

Investigates, surveys and designs electric distribution lines according to construction specifications, and prepares line design sheets.

1. Must demonstrate job knowledge and skills in order to advance to next level in job progression through competency assessment and performance evaluation.
2. Gains knowledge of assigned area in order to perform job more efficiently. Becomes familiar with Cooperative distribution system, learns how to read a system map, and operate computer-mapping system.
3. Meets with customer to explain costs and options (overhead or underground) according to current tariff guidelines, work that will need to be done, and assess customer preferences.
4. Ensures that ROW is cleared according to RUS and MEC specifications. Contacts affected landowners to inform them that ROW clearing will be performed on their property.
5. Ensures that all easement documents are properly completed for execution by landowner for construction of all new facilities.
6. Coordinates with other utilities in locating underground lines and equipment for identification on line design sheet. Enters line design sheets in the computer system for material list. Must prepare line design sheet including notes on trees or ROW to be cleared, equipment needed, size of poles, guy wires, anchors, etc.
7. Clears path large enough to design the line (minor clearing); marks trees to be cleared; posts safety signs on roadways as necessary; designs the line by surveying with a transit or GPS; drives stakes where needed in placement of poles and guy wires.
8. Gains knowledge of RUS and MEC specifications and drawings for 7.2/12.5 kV and 14.4/24.9 kV overhead and underground line construction.
9. Gains knowledge of related NESC requirements for the design of overhead and underground electric lines.
10. Prepares line design sheets for construction and assists engineering in designing Work Plan jobs and obtaining easements.
11. Assists line crew during construction as needed.
12. Assists in training other personnel in surveying and line design work.
13. Reports consumer complaints or questions to supervisor. Looks for and reports hazardous conditions and needed maintenance in field or office.
14. Assists in the proper use and care of all tools and equipment and reports in writing to Supervisor any equipment working improperly or in need of repair.
15. Must be able to drive and maintain a current Texas driver’s license. Operates and maintains vehicle(s) and equipment in a safe manner and according to State and Federal regulations.
16. Completes and maintains accurately and promptly all required paperwork.
17. Wears required uniform with cost paid by MEC. Employee purchases initial pair of steel toed boots which must meet MEC’s requirements; replacement boot cost is subject to supervisor approval and policy guidelines. Employee wears additional personal protective equipment as required.
18. Becomes certified on an annual basis in CPR, first aid, and fire extinguisher use; becomes certified every two years for defensive driving.
19. Attends scheduled safety meetings. Performs all duties in accordance to applicable safety, policy and procedure manuals. Follows Cooperative, NESC, RUS, OSHA, and state and other regulatory agency safety procedures and rules in the performance of all work.
20. Attends required meetings and seminars of which some may require extended overnight stays.
21. Conduct must reflect a professional image when in contact with members, general public, and employees.
22. Must be able to work during emergency conditions.
23. Performs other duties as assigned by management.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

1. Works outdoors 95% of the time sometimes under considerable physical exertion and environmental conditions such as extreme heat or cold and rough terrain.
2. Drives a vehicle to line design location and meets with customers.
3. Occasionally lifts items that weigh up to 50 pounds.
4. Constantly requires the ability to talk, hear, see, stand, walk, sit, and use hands and fingers.
5. Sufficient vision abilities that are required by this job include close, distant, color, peripheral and depth perception.
6. Frequently exposed to poison oak/ivy, insect bites/stings and unpredictable animals due to clearing brush, etc.
7. Requires carrying tools for brush cutting and surveying.
8. Subjected to cuts, bruises, sprains, fractures, and dog bites.
9. Attendance and punctuality is a work requirement.