Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: Q0016 / Utilities Electrician
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 14

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Maintains the University's low, medium, and high voltage electrical distribution systems following required safety protocols. Tests and troubleshoots complex electrical systems with a strong understanding of electrical controls and schematics . Operates in compliance with National Electrical Code, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for safe and proper installation and operation of low, medium, and high voltage systems.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Installs and monitors performance of installed electrical equipment for hazards, adjustments, or replacement.
  2. Repairs, installs, replaces, and tests electrical circuits using appropriate tools and testing instruments.
  3. Leads, guides, and/or trains other electricians in applicable procedures and techniques; coordinates system repairs.
  4. Operates and maintains low (<1000V), medium (1kV up to 69kV), and high voltage (69kV up to 115kV) switchgear and controls; may repair and maintain motor control centers, programmable logic controls, and variable frequency drives.
  5. Troubleshoots, tests, and inspects complex electrical systems, moderately complex relay calibration, adjustment and calibration of complex protective relays, and power metering for substations and individual services; uses computers to control, test, and program electrical equipment.
  6. Plans and implements medium voltage electrical primary system switching procedures.
  7. Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
  8. Reads, employs, and updates electrical panel schedules, control drawings, and building schematics.
  9. Advises Facilities Management Electrical Trades Inspector of non-compliance with NFPA or UNM standards.
  10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED; at least 7 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Certification/Licensure: OSHA High Voltage Certificate or Equivalent; Electrical Journeyman License (EE98J); Electrical Journeyman License (EL-1J).
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Knowledge of low and medium voltage systems, equipment, substations, and primary power distribution.
  • Knowledge of National Electrical Code, NFPA-70E, OSHA 10-30, and the National Electrical Safety Code.
  • Ability to use appropriate tools and diagnostic equipment to repair, install, replace, and test medium and low voltage electrical circuits and equipment.
  • Ability to use hand and power tools applicable to trade.
  • Ability to diagnose and repair electrical controls, industrial motor control centers, and programmable logic controllers for both primary and secondary systems.
  • Ability to lead and/or train staff.
  • Ability to read both commercial and industrial electrical blueprints and apply NEC, NFPA-70A, NESC, and OSHA 10-30 through the full range of commercial and industrial maintenance and construction work.
  • Ability to read, understand, follow and enforce safety procedures.
  • Ability to install and maintain motors, welding equipment, lighting fixtures, generators, circuit breakers, and transformers as appropriate to the position.
  • Ability to isolate and repair defects in wiring, switches, motors, and other electrical equipment.

Distinguishing Characteristics

    Position requires: a) Troubleshooting and repairing deficiencies in primary (high and medium voltage) circuits including cutouts, switchgears, relays, and transformers; b) Operating low and medium, and high voltage switchgear; c) Leading, guiding and/or training other electricians in applicable procedures and techniques; d) Proficiency in operating test equipment, especially protective relay equipment.

Conditions of Employment

  • Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
  • Must maintain certification status.
  • Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
  • Must have Basic First Aid and Adult CPR/AED Certificates or obtain within 3 months of date of hire.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of job.
  • Work involves almost constant exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, and/or loud noises.
  • Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 10/26/2022