Performs skilled line work in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of overhead and underground electrical distribution system and related work as apparent or assigned. The Journey Electrical Lineworker shall report to the Electric Line Crew Chief.
Please note:
2026 Hiring Range: $46.20 - $51.48 per hour depending on qualifications.2026 Pay Range: $46.20 - $54.99 per hour.*2026 Performance based pay opportunity: Up to $61.58 per hour.*The City of Brainerd utilizes a performance-based pay system as noted above. Our system provides an opportunity for additional pay steps based on merit. Contact the HR Department if you would like to learn more about our system.- Install and maintain the energized and de-energized overhead and underground electrical distribution system and components including but not limited to poles, overhead and underground transformers and conductors, meters, switches, fuses and cutouts, junction boxes, protective devices, and other related electric equipment.
- Participation in the on-call rotation is required; Respond to trouble and emergency calls and perform necessary maintenance. Willingness to accept call out/call back for outages and emergency repairs is essential. Call out/call back can be declined for good cause only.
- Perform substation construction and maintenance including structures and equipment.
- Install, connect and reconnect wire, meters and other electrical services on customer premises; effectively respond and resolve customer concerns and problems.
- Perform voltage power quality and load checks.
- Trim trees to ensure the operating integrity of the Brainerd Public Utilities’ overhead electrical system as required.
- Assist in the training and instruction of less tenured or apprentice line workers in appropriate procedures of construction, installation, replacement or maintenance of both overhead and underground electrical systems. May assign tasks on site and monitor progress of less experienced line workers.
- Install and maintain street lighting system and maintain signal lighting.
- Prepare and maintain records of work performed, material and equipment utilized; stock service vehicles as required.
- Maintain vehicles, equipment and shop areas.
- Operate all vehicles and related equipment used in both overhead and underground construction and maintenance activities.
- Review voltage problems, power quality problems, and other customer complaints/problems.
- Attendance at continuing education events applicable to the position is strongly encouraged.
- Assist other service crews as needed and in emergencies.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Thorough knowledge of the techniques, materials and equipment used in the construction, maintenance and repair of electric distribution system ranging from 110 Volts to 34.5 KV and related equipment.
- Thorough knowledge of the layout of the existing distribution network.
- General knowledge of the rules and regulations governing equipment operations and utility repair work performed in or on public roads and right-of-ways.
- Knowledge of the methods, practices and tools utilized in electrical system troubleshooting.
- Thorough knowledge of the hazards connected with electrical distribution system maintenance and the necessary safety precautions to comply with the Utility, NESC, and OSHA safety requirements.
- Ability to read and interpret documents such as Utility safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and policies.
- Ability to listen and speak effectively; follow oral and written instructions.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and customers.
- Demonstrate the ability to adapt to change in procedure and workload and be able to maintain composure when confronted with stressful situations.
- Maintain skills and knowledge in the proper and safe techniques for performing job functions.
Education, Experience & Special Requirements
- High School Diploma or general education degree (GED).
- Graduate of Electrical Lineworker program at a vocational or technical college.
- The qualified candidate must have successfully completed a Lineworker Apprenticeship Program or equivalent Lineworker training courses.
- Must be a journeyman lineman or combination of experience and training to meet the requirements as determined by the Electric Director.
- Minnesota Class A commercial driver’s license with air brake endorsement or the ability to obtain within six months of hire.
- Achieve and maintain MMUA “Certified Climber” certification.
Desired Qualifications:
- Two to five years of employment as a journeyman with a utility or electrical contractor is desirable.
Physical Requirements
This is heavy work requiring the exertion of up to 100 pounds of force rarely-not daily, up to 75 pounds of force occasionally, 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects; work requires climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, standing, pushing, pulling, lifting, feeling, grasping and repetitive movements; vocal communication is required to convey detailed or important spoken instructions to others accurately, loudly or quickly; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for depth perception, color perception, night vision, peripheral vision, preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, assembly or fabrication of parts at or within arm’s length, operation of machines, operation of motor vehicles or equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is subject to outside environmental conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, noise, vibration, hazards, and atmospheric conditions. The worker may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and may be required to wear specialized personal protective gear.