Position Title: Apprentice Lineman
EEO Class: Laborers & Helpers
Department: Aerial FLSA
Status: Nonexempt
Reports To: Foreman

General Summary:

Operate medium and larger size single axle trucks following DOT and OSHA requirements, assist Crew Foreman and other crew members with ground support, maintain proper inventory of tools and materials for the aerial lift truck, and perform daily maintenance and inspection of truck. This person is at the entry-level position within our ranks and is responsible for performing these tasks all under the direction and training as needed by the Foreman.

Essential Job Functions:

1. Perform vehicle and/or trailer inspections and prepare for the daily assignments. (10%)

• Perform daily pre-trip DOT vehicle inspections using inspection books provided.
• Perform daily checks of basic engine fluids and on-board displays showing tire pressure and other reminders.
• Perform basic “house cleaning” of truck interior, windows, mirrors, storage bins, and bed daily.
• Perform exterior washing of truck as needed.
• Stock the trucks with the proper safety equipment, tools, and materials.
• Assist in the loading and/or unloading of strand, coax, or fiber reels from trailers.
• Ensure that all items in the bed space are secured and that the trailer is fully connected and proper.
• Ensure that all trailer lighting and brakes (if equipped) are functioning properly.
• Grease and/or lubricate specified points on aerial lift and arbor.

2. Perform safe operation of medium and larger size trucks following DOT and OSHA Work requirements. (20%)

• Drive the aerial lift truck to and from the jobsite and within the jobsite as needed.
• Position truck and trailer for optimal strand and/or cable placement, loading and/or unloading of reels on aerial lift truck arbor.

3. Assist Crew Foreman with ground support to construct aerial communications plant. (60%)

• Set up and/or take down work area protection at job site (signs, cones, etc.)
• Study work prints, observe and retain the processes of various job site assessments, setups, and the procedures of doing the actual work of the Foreman.
• Provide tools and materials to the Foreman in the sequence as they are needed and assist as directed from the ground to place new strand or cable on the aerial pole line.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area by picking up work related debris/waste, tools, and/or equipment from the ground.
• Will require extensive use of hand tools to maintain aerial construction specialty tools, etc.
• May require handling of strand, cable, or fiber by pulling it off the reel as directed by Foreman. Document specific notes and other information onto work prints, work orders, or logs as directed by the Foreman relating to completed work items, irregularities, or other important information.
• Perform safe ladder handling skills to load/unload secure and transport to and from and while on the job site.

4. Perform end of day activities. (10%)

• Complete DOT post-trip inspection started in the morning. Deposit inspection slips in container provided.
• Remove any accumulated trash, debris, tools, and/or materials and either dispose in dumpster or return to designated location.
• Deposit fuel slips as applicable into container provided.
• If company vehicle is parked outside, it must be parked properly, locked, and keys returned to the key board.
• Complete time sheet and address any notes left by management.

5. Perform other miscellaneous duties as directed by management.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Must maintain a valid Driver’s License with good driving record.
2. Must be able to pass an annual or bi-annual DOT physical examination.
3. Must be able to maintain a drug free life and pass a pre-employment and/or random drug tests.
4. Must have the ability to work with and communicate with other crew members.
5. Must have the ability to communicate with Crew Foreman and other crew members using twoway devices (radios, intercoms).
6. Must have the ability to, or learn to read and understand design prints, work orders, and specifications.
7. Must have the ability to understand and adhere to all company, OSHA, and DOT safety rules and regulations.
8. Must have the ability to read and understand DOT traffic patterns and set up safe work zones accordingly.
9. Must have the ability to safely drive a medium size single axle truck/trailer on both highways and surface streets with acute trailer backing skills.
10. Must be able to maintain a clean and organized work environment (truck and worksite).
11. Must be able to learn and anticipate the needs of the Crew Foreman beforehand to keep a positive workflow.
12. Must be able to understand use of, and work with basic hand tools and perform small tasks and tool maintenance while supporting the Crew Foreman.
13. Must be able to work consistently at a steady pace for the entire day.
14. Must be able to communicate any deficiencies with company tools, equipment, and trucks.
15. Must be able to communicate desired traffic control needs to any hired traffic control personnel.
16. Must possess skills required or ability to retain training on confined space manhole work.
17. Must be able to or retain training to operate aerial lift and arbor controls from the ground position in a safe manor.
18. Must be able to lift 70+ pounds.
19. Should be able to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays for emergency repairs.

Education and Experience:

High School diploma or the equivalent. One to two years of related work experience in Telecom construction preferred.

Physical Requirements:

Working Conditions:

Usual outdoor working conditions including occasional exposure to elements such as noise, dust, cold/heat, rain, snow, mud, and traffic/interruptions. Some elements present that make conditions less than desirable than usually found in an office. Proper attire is required.