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Remote Utility Pole Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Remote Utility Pole information

What is a remote utility pole worker?

Remote Utility Pole workers are professionals who are responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing utility poles that support power lines, telecommunications cables, or other infrastructure, often working from remote locations. Their tasks can include identifying hazards, ensuring structural integrity, and sometimes installing new equipment. With the advent of remote technologies, many inspections and diagnostics can now be performed using digital tools, drones, or specialized software, reducing the need for on-site visits. These roles are crucial for ensuring reliable utility services and safety in both urban and rural areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility pole inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Pole Inspector, you need knowledge of utility infrastructure, safety standards, and inspection protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant field experience. Familiarity with inspection tools, geographic information systems (GIS), and digital reporting platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are essential to ensure the safety, reliability, and compliance of utility pole networks.

What are some common challenges faced by remote utility pole inspectors and how can they be addressed?

Remote utility pole inspectors often encounter challenges such as difficult terrain, inclement weather, and limited access to poles in isolated areas. Utilizing drone technology and remote sensing tools can help overcome accessibility issues and improve safety. Additionally, effective communication with team members and timely reporting using digital platforms are essential for maintaining workflow and ensuring accurate documentation. Staying up to date with safety protocols and technological advancements can further enhance efficiency and reduce risks in this role.

What is the difference between Remote Utility Pole vs Line Locator?

AspectRemote Utility PoleLine Locator
CredentialsTypically requires OSHA safety training, basic electrical knowledgeRequires similar safety training, often includes certification in underground utility detection
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on utility poles, often in various weather conditionsOutdoor, on the ground or underground, often in urban or rural areas
Industry UsageElectric, telecommunications, cable industriesElectric, telecommunications, cable industries
Job FocusInstalling, maintaining, or repairing utility poles and linesLocating underground or hidden utility lines to prevent damage

Remote Utility Poles and Line Locators both work in the utility industry but focus on different tasks. Remote Utility Poles involve working on or near utility poles, while Line Locators specialize in detecting underground lines. Both roles require safety training and are essential for infrastructure maintenance and installation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Pole jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Utility Pole jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Utility Pole jobs in Minnesota?

For Remote Utility Pole jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Utility Pole jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Utility Pole jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Remote Utility Pole jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Remote Utility Pole job openings:

Distribution Designer - Greater Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN Area

Orbital Engineering, Inc.

Minneapolis, MN • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Title

Distribution Designer

Location:

Greater Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN Area (REMOTE)

FLSA Classification

Non-Exempt

Job Description:

Orbital Engineering, Inc. is currently seeking a Distribution Designer located in Minnesota for a REMOTE WORK position. Candidates can work from home but must reside in Minnesota, preferably in the greater Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN area, or Northwest Wisconsin in order to support utility client projects, conduct site visits, and perform fielding activities.

Orbital Engineering’s Utility Services Department partners with Utility and Communication Companies in Engineering and Construction operations for Joint Use Pole Attachment Programs (JU) and Distribution Engineering Design Projects.

This position will directly support projects within the Utility Services Department’s pole attachment application process and utility distribution design process. 

Essential Functions

  • Prepare construction documents including plan and profile drawings for overhead and underground electric distribution, fiber optic, and telecommunications facilities
  • Assist with distribution line design 2.4kV - 34kV
  • Prepare make-ready work for joint use projects
  • Assist in the preparation of proposals, engineering/project cost estimates, and execution schedules
  • Provide field support during construction
  • Provide quality reviews of work prepared by others and adhere to the QA/QC process
  • Evaluate loading of various equipment components being installed such as transformers and structural loading of poles to ensure a cost-effective, safe and reliable design utilizing client specifications.
  • Apply National Electric Safety Code (NESC) Standards, Client Standards, Federal, State or Local Municipal Guidelines, and/or other applicable guidelines to complete engineering designs (Pole Replacements, Communication Space Rearrangements, Joint-Use Design) for possible joint-use or make-ready construction
  • Ability to analyze field collected data (including imagery) and accurately update applicable software packages for successful design implementation
  • Regularly utilizes Client proprietary software packages or equipment to complete daily responsibilities in the engineering design workflow process, may include facilitating new attachment permitting process
  • Accountable for work assigned and responsible for completing work on project schedule and within project budget while regularly communicating status with management team
  • Frequently communicates with Client(s) on engineering design to best determine the most cost-effective solution for their project
  • Provides timely and detailed documentation and support to Orbital accounting functions for ensuring projects are on budget and appropriately accounted
  • Transcribe notes, use measuring devices to identify, inspect, and record the data which is found in an organized manner
  • May be required to attend meetings at clients’ sites and regularly interact with the general public, including landowners and operators
  • Ability to visually identify, inspect, and record equipment and different construction situations in the field, including rights-of-way
  • Communicate with others, including co-workers and clients, to agree on the best solution for engineering design
  • Can endure frequent driving, standing, walking (numerous miles a day), navigating (on foot or in a vehicle), and balancing objects which may weigh up to 20 pounds in congested and/or complex terrain
  • May occasionally enter energized extra-high voltage substations up to 745kV and will need to coordinate with appropriate utility personnel throughout fielding activities within this location
  • As needed, must be able to work in all weather conditions and in residential, commercial, and industrial areas
  • Work is primarily remote/office based, but fieldwork may be needed throughout the engineering design process
  • Must be willing to travel overnight or for extended periods of time, based on project assignment

Other Duties

Please note that this job posting does not list all duties and responsibilities that are required of this job.  Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications:

  • Candidates must reside in Minnesota, preferably in the greater Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN area, or Northwest Wisconsin.
  • High School Diploma or GED required with 4+ years of experience in fieldwork or a construction environment, drafting, utility experience, or technical design
  • Associate degree in engineering technology, construction, drafting technology, or related technical discipline with 2-4 years of experience, with interest in fieldwork, or surveying
  • Knowledge of utility distribution design and construction standards, industry practices, and the ability to use design software packages
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, engineering technology, construction, GIS, drafting, or related technical discipline with 0-2 years of experience preferred
  • Prior utility design experience or distribution line work preferred
  • Ability to read and understand engineering drawings/schematics preferred
  • Working knowledge of electrical distribution assets and/or communication equipment construction preferred
  • Experience in pole loading (Spida Calc, O-Calc, Pole Foreman, or Katapult) or other construction modeling software (AutoCAD) is beneficial
  • Knowledge of industry utility or joint-use software (SPANS, NJUNS, IkeGPS) for make-ready engineering and construction is beneficial
  • Familiar with Design and Checking practices for engineering drawings and deliverables
  • Familiar with Safe Work Practices and PPE applications
  • Must be an organized person who can keep data organized from start to finish on a project
  • Ability to prioritize work on multiple projects and effectively communicate project statuses
  • Understanding of design software such as: AutoCAD, Civil 3D, MicroStation, GIS and Excel to develop the design deliverables
  • Computer proficiency including general Microsoft Office products, design, and business enterprise software
  • Effective written and oral communication at all levels within an organizational structure
  • Reasoning skills and ability to solve practical problems
  • Must have dependable transportation and a valid driver’s license with insurance
  • Must be able to pass a fit for duty test
  • Ability to work from home and an office setting, as required
  • This position requires the ability to pass a post-offer drug (including marijuana) and alcohol test in compliance with Federal regulations and is also subject to random testing as a condition of continued employment.

    Location Note:

    This is a remote position. Compensation is based on market data and internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate’s location.

    Salary Range:

    $33,000-91,000 annually (based on experience, qualifications, and location)

    Benefits:

    A commitment to excellence and hard work will be rewarded with a competitive salary, career advancement opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. Our benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; a 401(k)-retirement savings plan; and supplemental insurance options. We also provide company-paid life and AD&D insurance, company-paid short-term disability coverage, and a generous paid time off program to ensure you have the support and flexibility you need both professionally and personally.

    About Orbital:
    Powered by People, Driven by Solutions

    Since 1969, Orbital has been specializing in project development, project execution and asset management for the heavy industrial sectors and utilities. Our regional offices, hands-on mentality, and world-wide integrated teams provide an ability to leverage subject matter experts and industry best-practices wherever a project may lie geographically. Our focus steadfastly remains on finding and delivering the best solution, regardless of where that team sits across our organization. At Orbital, our power is our people.

    Equal Opportunity Statement:

    We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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