What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communication Technician Apprentice position at Idaho Power Company?
**If you are a current Idaho Power employee, please apply through the
Employee Portal
.
Application Deadline:
04/02/2025 at 11:59 pm Mountain Time
# of Positions:
1
Job Type:
Regular
Job End Date:
Exemption Status:
Non-Exempt
Pay Range:
41.65 - 50.16 Hourly
Minimum Age Requirement:
Job Description:
Idaho Power — located in Payette, Idaho — is looking for a Communication Technician Apprentice to join our Planning, Engineering and Construction team. It’s an exciting time to work for Idaho Power. Our work plays a critical role in communities we serve across Idaho and Oregon, and we’re working hard to safely provide our customers with the reliable, affordable, clean energy they depend on.
What does a Communication Technician Apprentice do for us?
The Communication Technician Apprentice ensures secure operation of the interconnected electrical power system by assisting the Communication Technicians in installing, commissioning, troubleshooting, repairing, testing, and maintaining communications systems. Communications systems include microwave, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), power line carrier, satellite systems, telephone, fiber optics, leased circuits, mobile radio systems, dispatch console system, cellular and satellite circuits, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), remote terminal units (RTUs), protective relay communication systems, and other associated electronic equipment.
In addition to the meaningful work we do, we offer work-life balance, competitive pay and benefits, an employee incentive plan, and both a 401k employer-match and a pension plan, making Idaho Power one of the best employers in the state.
A COMPETITIVE CANDIDATE WILL HAVE
Knowledge of:
- Digital microwave system maintenance and troubleshooting
- Base station and two-way radio system maintenance
- Installation, testing, and maintenance of fiber optic systems and satellite systems
- Associated tools and test equipment
- Acceptance testing of leased four-wire telephony circuits
- Mathematics of power measurement
- Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system operation and trouble isolation
- Internet protocol
- MPLS
- Computer networks
Skills in:
- Troubleshooting techniques
- Proficient use of test equipment for evaluating communications equipment performance
- Effective use of schematics and diagrams
- Proficient use of power and hand tools, such as crimpers, wire cutters, strippers, and splicers
- Use of computer operating systems and computer serial communications
- Computer networks
Ability to:
- Properly correct and document changes to communications schematics and maintain maintenance databases in CommData
- Work in a team environment, as well as be self-directed when necessary
- Work with a high degree of accountability to meet operations, regulatory, and organizational requirements
- Manage multiple projects while keeping up with schedule maintenance
- Work increasingly independently as evaluated by the journeyman and/or leader
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education:
- High school diploma or GED
AND
- Associate degree in electronics discipline
OR
- Equivalent military electronics training
OR
- Completion of a related formal apprenticeship training program recognized by the Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship
OR
- An equivalent combination of education and work experience
Experience:
- 2 or more years of work experience maintaining electronic communications equipment
Licenses & Certifications:
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record based on driving requirements for the position
- Required to obtain Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Card prior to hire for Payette location only
- Must obtain First Aid/CPR card within 90 days
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position lifts/carries up to 35 lbs. up to 20 feet in testing, maintaining, repairing, and installing communication equipment. Sustained awkward postures with crouching, kneeling, bending/stooping, and twisting is required in performing manual dexterity activities, gripping, pushing, pulling, and using hand tools. Hiking or snowshoeing up to ¼ mile is performed to reach towers and climbing ladder on 20- 140 ft tower (utilizing safety equipment). 50-60% of communications work is performed on the laptop. Driving of up to 2.5 hours is necessary and with occasional operation of snowmachines/snowcat, or potentially riding in helicopter to reach communication towers in winter. To ensure the manufacturer's rated capacity of bucket trucks are not exceeded, applicants body weight cannot exceed 300 lbs. Job placement is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation, the Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate exam. The above is a summary of the primary essential functions of the position. This job may require the performance of additional tasks assigned by company leaders or management. Questions regarding job requirements or accommodation requests should be directed to Human Resources.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Enrollment in the Idaho Power’s Communication Technician Apprenticeship Training Program. Additional safety related training may be required.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Must live within 45 minutes of the state regional office. Position will require candidate to climb communication towers up to 140 feet in height and snowshoe into remote communication sites in all weather conditions. Must be able to operate company vehicle off road in challenging weather conditions. Must abide by Idaho Power Company's safety rules and regulations. Complete required Company and safety training.
#IPC1
Competencies:
Adaptability, Applied Learning, Collaborating, Communication, Decision Making, Quality Orientation, Safety Focus
__________________________________
Need Assistance Completing Your Application?
Please contact our Recruiting Office if you have questions, require assistance or accommodation while applying for employment with Idaho Power Company: Phone: 208-388-2965 or Email:
jobs@idahopower.com
Idaho Power is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, physical or mental disability, marital status, and any other status protected by applicable federal and state laws.
Please note: Idaho Power will not provide sponsorship for obtaining an employment visa, such as an H-1B visa.
