Job Opportunities

The Powerline Technician I – Underground/Substation is a skilled worker responsible for constructing, maintaining, and operating underground electrical systems and substation equipment. The technician performs advanced-level tasks involving high and low-voltage systems, equipment installation, cable terminations, switching, fault analysis, and preventative and corrective maintenance. This role supports the continuous improvement of system reliability, efficiency, and safety, while ensuring compliance with GBPC-approved electrical standards, and safety and environmental policies.

Maintain health, safety and environment standards by:

• Ensuring compliance with all safety policies and procedures.
• Inspecting safety equipment regularly.
• Ensuring safe clearance of all lines and equipment.
• Performing hazardous waste spill control and cleanup.

Underground and Substation Construction & Maintenance:

• Installs, terminates, and maintains medium- and low-voltage underground cables, including splicing, testing, and fault locating.
• Performs inspection, maintenance, and repairs on substation equipment such as circuit breakers (SF6, oil, vacuum), power and control transformers, voltage regulators, switches, insulators, lightning arresters, and bus systems.
• Perform diagnostic tests on substation components, transformers, breakers, and protective devices to verify performance and identify potential issues.
• Conducts condition-based monitoring tasks such as thermographic scanning, oil and gas sampling, contact resistance testing, and battery bank servicing.
• Assists with substation outages, isolations, and commissioning of new equipment and control systems.

System Operations and Switching:

• Coordinates with Control Authority for load transfers, energization, de-energization, and emergency switching.
• Executes switching and isolating operations for substations and underground circuits per GBPC-approved procedures.
• Assists with system reconfigurations and troubleshooting of feeder issues to restore power safely and quickly.
• Performs all other duties as assigned, including support during major outages, special projects, and emergency response

Customer Service & Coordination:

• Works with internal departments and external contractors to ensure coordinated delivery of service and project goals.
• Represents GBPC positively in field interactions with customers, ensuring issues are addressed promptly and professionally

Compliance, Documentation & Reporting:

• Ensures all tasks are completed in compliance with GBPC safety procedures, electrical codes, and environmental standards.
• Utilize technical drawings (maps, blueprints, specifications, sketches) to complete assigned tasks accurately.
• Prepares and updates accurate documentation including switching orders, maintenance reports, inspection forms, as-built drawings, and test data sheets.
• Document test results accurately and report any discrepancies or faults in accordance with GBPC standards and regulatory requirements.
• Utilizes support systems such as GIS, CMMS, OMS, and AMI to track work progress and update asset records.

Team Support and Mentorship:

• Provides oversight and guidance to Powerline Technician II and trainees, helping to develop their skills and ensure safe and effective work practices.
• Assists in the development of crew readiness by sharing knowledge, mentoring junior staff, and providing feedback to supervisors regarding progress and competency of trainees.
• Guide CBT signoffs through hands-on instruction, performance observation, and constructive feedback.
• Ensure accurate documentation of completed CBTs, mentoring logs, and progression checklists
• Support Powerline Lead and Supervisor in conducting MAPP and PDP discussions for developing staff.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Comprehensive knowledge of underground electrical systems and substation infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of protective relaying, system configuration, and control circuits.
• Proficiency in electrical testing tools and interpreting technical schematics.
• Demonstrated ability to lead small teams or guide less experienced staff.
• Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in underground distribution and substation.
• Full completion of the PLT II progression including all CBT modules and performance review.
• Proficiency in the use of testing and diagnostic equipment for underground and substation apparatus.
• Proven leadership ability and endorsement by Supervisors/Working Foremen as capable of leading crews and mentoring others.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and respond effectively in emergencies or high-pressure situations.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work involves exposure to energized equipment, confined spaces, outdoor conditions, and high-risk electrical environments.
• Requires climbing, confined space entry, use of PPE, and operating heavy lifting equipment.
• Subject to call-out duty, rotating shifts, and extended work hours in emergencies.