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Powerline Inspector Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Powerline Inspector information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a powerline inspector?

To thrive as a Powerline Inspector, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, utility safety standards, and experience with powerline infrastructure, often supported by relevant certifications or technical training. Familiarity with inspection tools, GIS mapping software, and sometimes drone technology is important for efficient assessment and reporting. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help inspectors identify hazards and coordinate with maintenance teams. These skills are critical to ensuring the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of electrical power distribution networks.

What is a powerline inspector?

Powerline Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining overhead and underground electrical power lines to ensure they are safe, functional, and compliant with regulations. They identify and report potential issues like damaged equipment, vegetation encroachment, or signs of wear and tear that could lead to power outages or safety hazards. Using specialized equipment, such as drones or infrared cameras, Powerline Inspectors may perform visual assessments or thermal scans. Their work helps utility companies maintain reliable electricity service and prevent accidents. Regular inspections are crucial for public safety and efficient operation of the electrical grid.

What are some common challenges faced by powerline inspectors during field inspections?

Powerline Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in remote or difficult-to-access locations, dealing with adverse weather conditions, and ensuring personal safety around high-voltage equipment. They must remain vigilant for potential hazards like damaged lines or encroaching vegetation and accurately document findings for maintenance crews. Effective communication with linemen, engineers, and utility managers is essential to coordinate repairs and minimize downtime, making teamwork and adaptability crucial skills in this role.

What is the difference between Powerline Inspector vs Lineman?

AspectPowerline InspectorLineman
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in electrical safety, climbing, and inspection techniquesRequires lineman training, apprenticeships, and often certifications in electrical work and safety
Work EnvironmentPrimarily inspects overhead and underground power lines, often from ground or bucket trucksPerforms installation, maintenance, and repair of power lines, often working at heights and in outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by utility companies for inspection and safety assessmentsEmployed by utility companies for construction, repair, and maintenance of power distribution systems

While both roles work within the utility industry and require safety certifications, Powerline Inspectors focus on inspecting and assessing power lines, often from ground or bucket trucks, whereas Linemen are responsible for installing and repairing power lines directly. The roles are complementary but distinct in daily tasks and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Powerline Inspector jobs in Oklahoma?

For Powerline Inspector jobs in Oklahoma, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Powerline Inspector jobs in Oklahoma look for?

The top searched job categories for Powerline Inspector jobs in Oklahoma are:

Infographic showing various Powerline Inspector job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Distribution Electrician I-IV 632510

Oklahoma State University

Stillwater, OK • On-site

$23.50 - $32.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Oklahoma State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

361st of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Distribution Electrician I-IV 632510

Apply now Job no: 493447
Work type: Staff Full-time
Location: Stillwater
Categories: Service/Facilities/Maintenance, Skilled Craft & Trades

Campus

OSU-Stillwater

Contact Name & Email

Brigett Broyles, brigett.broyles@okstate.edu

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm or TBD by supervisor.

Appointment Length

Regular Continuous/Until Further Notice

Hiring Range

$22.00 - $39.50

Special Instructions to Applicants

For full consideration, please include a resume, and contact information for three professional references.

About this Position

Installation and alteration of new and existing electrical systems and equipment.

Repair and maintain all types of interior and exterior electrical systems and equipment.

Repair and maintain all types of motor and motor controllers. Installation, repair, and maintenance of primary high voltage distribution systems both overhead and underground.

Employee in this position is required to be on rotating standby for emergencies and/or any other event after 5 p.m. weekdays, weekends and holidays.

Employee in this position is required to work overtime when work requires. Employee in this position is required to work shift work when work can't be accomplished during regular hours, and when the Management staff deems necessary. Overtime is an essential function of this position and may require work during nonbusiness hours which include evenings, Saturdays and Sundays.

The incumbent will be required to provide their own basic hand tools and maintain them in good working order.

Must be able to perform snow and ice removal tasks, and respond at any time of the day or night when scheduled by management regardless of the weather conditions.

Some irregular and extra hours as needed for projects and emergencies. Emergencies frequently involve difficult working conditions. This may require work during nonbusiness hours which include evenings, Saturdays, Sundays and when the University is closed.

Position may involve exposure to the following physical danger and/or environmental hazards: Noise, wet vaults, and tunnels, working in rainstorms, snow, and dusty conditions. Seasonal considerations include heat of summer and cold during the winter. Working with high voltage, cramped areas, pole climbing, and confined spaces. This position is heavy in manual labor and requires the physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds frequently and in excess of 50 pounds occasionally.

Must use appropriate personal protective equipment as required (hard hat, vest, gloves, safety glasses, etc.). These items are provided and are not for personal use.

Required to work safely and promote a safe environment.

OSU offers a generous benefits package for continuous, regular positions, including but not limited to health, life and retirement benefits, paid leave and 13 paid holidays per year. Other benefits include employee and dependent tuition waivers, free gym memberships, a free, confidential employee assistance program, and much more.

Required Qualifications
  • High School/GED (degree must be conferred on or before agreed upon start date)
  • Distribution Electrician I: Two years of prior successful work experience in electrical or powerline work in a related field.

    Distribution Electrician II: Four years of prior successful work experience in electrical or powerline work in a related field.

    Distribution Electrician III: Six years of prior successful work experience in electrical or powerline work in a related field.

    Distribution Electrician IV: Ten years of prior successful work experience in electrical or powerline work in a related field. At least one year of experience operating heavy equipment

    Post-secondary education may be substituted for experience; preference given to post-secondary education in an electrical or mechanical field. 

  • Certifications, Registrations, and/or Licenses:

    Distribution Electrician I-III: OSU certified in trenching/shoring and confined space entry techniques within 6 months of hire as documented by the Energy Services training record. 

    Distribution Electrician IV: OSU or other certification in trenching/shoring and confined space entry techniques. 

    Class B Commercial Drivers License (CDL) within 12 months of hire for operation of departmental heavy equipment.

    Have before hire a valid Drivers License and maintain after hire for the operation of an OSU vehicle, which is required in the performance of job duties as assigned.

  • Skills, Proficiencies, and/or Knowledge:

    Distribution Electrician I: Ability to assist as directed with preventative maintenance inspections, electrical asset inventory and survey update of assets in AiM CMMS system, repair and maintenance of all facets of exterior lighting and secondary voltage exterior electrical circuitry and equipment, repair of the electrical distribution system and associated overhead and underground components, including but not limited to-meters and related equipment, medium voltage cabling, vaults, transformers, and switches, according to manufacturer's instructions, blueprints, and engineering specifications, and renovation or extension of the electrical distribution and exterior secondary voltage systems. 

    Distribution Electrician II: Ability to perform preventative maintenance inspections, electrical asset inventory and survey update of assets in AiM CMMS system, and repair and maintain all facets of exterior lighting and secondary voltage exterior electrical circuitry and equipment. Ability to assist as directed in the repair of the electrical distribution system and associated overhead and underground components, including but not limited to-meters and related equipment, medium voltage cabling, vaults, transformers, and switches, according to manufacturer's instructions, blueprints, and engineering specifications, and renovation or extension of the electrical distribution and exterior secondary voltage systems. Ability to interpret and apply relevant industry codes. Qualified in electrical distribution underground or overhead systems as indicated by Energy Services training record or capability verified by previous employer. Industry certified medium voltage splice and termination technician. Documented basic understanding of exterior secondary power and lighting systems, electrical distribution circuitry and components, and secondary voltage electrical systems within all Energy Services facilities. 

    Distribution Electrician III: Ability to perform preventative maintenance inspections, electrical asset inventory and survey update of assets in AiM CMMS system, and repair and maintain all facets of exterior lighting and secondary voltage exterior electrical circuitry and equipment, repair of the electrical distribution system and associated overhead and underground components, including but not limited to-meters and related equipment, medium voltage cabling, vaults, transformers, and switches, according to manufacturer's instructions, blueprints, and engineering specifications, and renovation or extension of the electrical distribution and exterior secondary voltage systems. Ability to interpret and apply relevant industry codes. Qualified in electrical distribution underground or overhead systems as indicated by Energy Services training record or capability verified by previous employer. Industry certified medium voltage splice and termination technician. Documented basic understanding of exterior secondary power and lighting systems, electrical distribution circuitry and components, and secondary voltage electrical systems within all Energy Services facilities. 

    Distribution Electrician IV: Capable of performing all duties of previous levels. Ability to oversee and perform preventative maintenance inspections and related duties according to an established maintenance schedule. Oversee and perform the repair and maintenance of all facets of exterior lighting and secondary voltage exterior electrical circuitry and equipment. Assist with establishing Electrical Distribution PM standards for new assets in AiM CMMS. Coordinate and perform all excavation permit procedures according to policy and keep permits current. Assist with procuring materials as needed for shop and for projects. Perform Electrical Distribution Assistant Supervisor duties when needed as directed. Ability to interpret and apply relevant industry codes. Qualified in electrical distribution underground or overhead systems as indicated by Energy Services training record or capability verified by previous employer. Industry certified medium voltage splice and termination technician. Documented basic understanding of exterior secondary power and lighting systems, electrical distribution circuitry and components, and secondary voltage electrical systems within all Energy Services facilities. 

    Ability to become proficient in the use of "AiM" Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) software & the use of mobile technology. 

Preferred Qualifications
  • Vocational/Technical

    Journeyman Level Electrical, Electronic, Line Man, Motor Repair, or Data Technician. 

Advertised: 19 Nov 2025 Central Standard Time
Applications close: 24 Sep 2026 Central Daylight Time

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