Apprentice Lineman In Illinois Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FreeState Electric Cooperative is seeking motivated, safety-focused individuals to join our Line Department as an Apprentice Lineman. This position may be filled at any level from Apprentice 1 through Apprentice 4, depending on the candidate's qualifications, experience, certifications, and demonstrated skill level within an approved apprenticeship program. The selected candidate will assist in the construction, maintenance, and operation of the electric distribution system while progressing through a structured apprenticeship program toward Journeyman Lineman status.

Position Summary

The Apprentice Lineman provides the manpower, knowledge, and workmanship necessary to safely construct, maintain, and operate the Cooperative's electric distribution system. Employees in this role work under progressively decreasing supervision as they advance through the apprenticeship program and demonstrate proficiency in line construction, system maintenance, switching operations, troubleshooting, and energized work.

Essential Responsibilities

• Construct, maintain, and repair overhead and underground electric distribution facilities.
• Perform work on non-energized and energized portions of the electric system as authorized by apprenticeship level and training.
• Install and maintain meters, transformers, conductors, poles, anchors, and related electrical equipment.
• Read and interpret maps, staking sheets, construction specifications, and sectionalizing diagrams.
• Participate in switching operations for maintenance activities and emergency restoration.
• Troubleshoot line outages and system deficiencies and assist in corrective actions.
• Safely operate line construction equipment including bucket trucks, digger derricks, backhoes, trenchers, forklifts, winches, and other specialized tools.
• Participate in after-hours callouts and the Cooperative's on-call rotation.
• Attend and participate in job briefings, tailgate meetings, safety meetings, and training programs.
• Assist with the training and development of apprentices at lower classifications as proficiency increases.
• Maintain equipment, tools, vehicles, and personal protective equipment in safe working condition.
• Follow all Cooperative safety policies, National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) requirements, and applicable regulations.

Apprentice Level Progression

Apprentice 1-1A

• Performs construction and maintenance on non-energized portions of the system.
• Works on energized security light poles only under direct supervision.
• Develops foundational skills in line construction, equipment operation, and safety practices.

Apprentice 2-2A

• Performs work on energized poles below the neutral conductor under direct supervision.
• Gains experience with energized line work and equipment operations.
• Assists in training lower-level apprentices.

Apprentice 3-3A

• Performs construction and maintenance on energized overhead and underground facilities under direct supervision.
• Develops advanced troubleshooting and system operation skills.
• Assists in training and mentoring lower-level apprentices.

Apprentice 4

• Performs construction and maintenance on energized and non-energized portions of the system with minimal direct supervision.
• Assumes additional operational responsibilities and assists in leading work activities.
• Demonstrates readiness for advancement toward Journeyman Lineman status.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) without an L, Z, or E restriction is required.
• Associate degree in Electrical Power & Distribution or related field preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic knowledge of electrical line construction.
• Ability and willingness to climb poles, work from aerial devices, and perform physically demanding work in all weather conditions.
• Ability to complete and successfully progress through the Cooperative's Apprentice Lineman Program (Merchant Job Training and Safety).
• Current First Aid, CPR, Pole Top Rescue, and Bucket Rescue certifications preferred or ability to obtain.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to safety and customer service excellence.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of electric distribution systems and line construction practices.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, staking sheets, safety rules, and technical documents.
• Ability to operate construction and line equipment safely and effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail and sound judgment.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, members, and the public.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, crawling, reaching, and lifting.
• Frequently lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to work at heights and near energized electrical equipment.
• Ability to perform work outdoors in extreme weather conditions.
• Ability to distinguish colors and maintain visual awareness necessary for electrical work.

Work Environment

• Outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Frequent exposure to heights, energized electrical equipment, and construction environments.
• Participation in emergency response and after-hours outage restoration.
• Subject to on-call duty, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Employees will be required to report within 30 minutes of notification.

Why FreeState?

FreeState offers excellent benefits designed to support both your career and your life outside of work:

• Retirement Security: Pension plan plus 401(k) with employer match.
• Healthcare: Medical, dental, and vision insurance paid at 100% for individual coverage.
• Health Savings Account: With a generous annual employer contribution.
• Additional Benefits: Life insurance, long-term disability, and paid time off.
• Career Development: On-the-job safety training, advancement through our lineman program, and professional development opportunities.
• Culture: Employee-focused, safety-first, and member-driven.

Apply Now:

Take the next step in your career with FreeState. Whether you're ready to begin as an Apprentice 1 or contribute as an Apprentice 4, we offer the stability, benefits, and growth opportunities to build a rewarding future. If you would like to apply for this position, please visit https://freestate.coop/jobs to complete an Application for Employment. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, or a job interview, please contact Melanie Eichman at melanie.eichman@freestate.coop or (800) 794-1989.

FreeState is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.