What are the responsibilities and job description for the Substation Technician electric utility position at Lea County Electric Cooperative?
ABOUT LEA COUNTY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE:
Lea County Electric Cooperative, established in 1949, serves over 7,000 consumers across six counties in New Mexico and Texas. Committed to community values and employee growth, we offer a supportive work environment, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Substation Technician is responsible for supporting the operation, construction, and maintenance of transmission and distribution stations, including special projects and assignments.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Organize and execute assigned tasks, mentoring apprentices when required.
- Conduct routine inspections, testing, and maintenance of station equipment; document findings and execute necessary repairs.
- Perform equipment change-outs, troubleshoot relays, and assist linemen with live-line work.
- Support in troubleshooting communication systems.
- Participate in monthly station meter reading, inspections, and calculations.
- Maintain and update substation equipment records and perform infrared inspections.
- Assist with system switching for power restoration during emergencies.
- Provide after-hours emergency response as part of a rotational schedule.
- Represent the Cooperative positively and provide leadership and training to employees.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Technical courses related to the position preferred.
- Ability to complete Book 1-2 of the Merchant's Powerline Job Training and Safety Program.
- Accredited or Cooperative approved Certification in Substation Technology preferred.
EXPERIENCE:
- Completion of the cooperative's apprentice training program or equivalent.
- Experience in the electrical utility environment, particularly on energized high voltage lines and equipment.
- Certification to climb wood poles of any height and proficient use of aerial equipment.
SKILLS & ABILITIES:
- Comprehensive knowledge of the cooperative's electrical system, construction practices, and communication protocols.
- Ability to perform line construction and maintenance activities, both overhead and underground.
- Annual LOTO "Affected Employee" and "Employee in Charge" exam certifications.
- Effective leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
- Valid Class A CDL, cooperative forklift certification, and current first aid and CPR certification.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
This role requires outdoor work in varying weather conditions, both day and night shifts. The technician may be subjected to scheduled and unscheduled callouts for outages or emergencies, working on energized high voltage electrical lines, and in substations. This position is considered safety-sensitive, and employees must reside within 30 minutes of the assigned work location.
Lea County Electric Cooperative, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite qualified candidates to join our team and contribute to our mission of serving the community's energy needs.
