EDS Apprentice Ground Hand

 

Job Summary:

A ground hand is primarily responsible for performing support tasks for power line construction, repair, or maintenance. Their responsibilities include preparing sites by digging holes, setting up poles, and even notifying clients for any power or service interruption. They also assist linemen or technicians by clearing any obstructions, providing guidelines, handing any needed tools or objects, and even operating different devices and machines. Furthermore, a grounds hand is also responsible for clearing out sites after operations, ensuring the public’s safety and the area’s cleanliness.

 

Supervisory Responsibilities:

  • None

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Operate and maintain aerial distribution systems
  • Operate and maintain underground distribution systems
  • System restoration
  • Must be able to work safely and effectively following all required safety standards
  • Must be flexible and willing to travel when necessary
  • Must be willing to perform storm restoration

 

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Knowledge of approved methods, materials, and tools used in electric line work
  • Knowledge of the principles of electric theory which apply to electric distribution and the hazards of live line work and safety of the procedures to be used
  • Adequate pole climbing ability
  • Ability to deal with the general public in a courteous and tactful manner
  • Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions
  • Must be able to take direction and coaching to effectively meet production standards while following safety standards
  • Ability to operate various types of industry-specific equipment such as, but not limited to, bucket trucks, material handlers, stake body trucks with lift gates and elevating platforms
  • Must be safety-minded and possess the knowledge of applicable laws, codes, and safety-related work practices common to electric utility work (i.e. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269(a)2(iii), NESC). Be able to learn and apply Company rules and procedures (including company safety rules) to the job function
  • Ability to communicate effectively with foreman, co-workers, contractors, and customers

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Associates Degree in EDS systems or equivalent industry experience preferred
  • Must have 1 year working experience in utility overhead work
  • Familiar with safe rubber glove and sleeves techniques
  • CDL class A license with Tankers required
  • OSHA 10 required
  • Pole Top Rescue, Bucket Truck Rescue, CPR, First Aid, Buck Squeeze, OSHA 10 preferred

Physical Requirements:

  • Must have physical strength, balance, hand-eye coordination, and stamina necessary to complete jobs in various areas.
  • Must possess the coordination and manual dexterity necessary to climb poles, operate hand and power tools and equipment utilized in the upkeep, repair, and maintenance tasks
  • Must be able to stand and walk up to ten hours per day and climb multiple sets of stairs while carrying materials weighing between 40 and 60 lbs.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 100 pounds at a time and push or pull 100-pound loads at a time.
  • Must be able to ride in a vehicle up to four hours to travel to and from job sites.
  • Must be able to work in varying weather and temperatures.
  • Must be able to traverse and inspect all areas of jobsite in all types of weather; this may include walking, climbing, reaching, bending, crawling, or stretching.
  • Exposure to characteristic construction site dangers.
  • Must have flexibility in scheduling to meet the needs of the business.