Staking Technician

Job Description

GDS Associates, Inc. has an exciting opportunity for a

in the Hi-Line Engineering department. This position is in the Atlanta area and commute to client site located in Cumming, GA area. The role plays a vital part in helping maintain system reliability and resiliency. The ideal candidate will take a hands-on role in conducting in-depth system inspections for one of our major clients, ensuring that all aspects of the plant infrastructure the rigorous standards for safety, compliance, and reliability. Most of the work is outside and requires a highly motivated individual.

- Performing detailed inspections of every pole within the assigned system, carefully evaluating the condition of each structure and identifying any construction- or maintenance-related deficiencies that may impact performance, safety, or long-term integrity.

- Assessing and documenting potential code violations in accordance with the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), ensuring that all findings reflect the most up-to-date standards and best practices.

- Recording observations, deficiencies, and violations directly into the company-provided tablet using specialized client software, maintaining accurate, organized, and comprehensive digital records.

- Submitting collected data to a direct supervisor on a weekly basis for quality control review and eventual delivery to the client, supporting a smooth workflow and timely project completion.

- Communicating clearly and professionally with supervisors, clients, and-when appropriate-members of the public regarding project details, field conditions, and inspection findings. Communicate with team daily to ensure all tasks have been completed.

- Ensure engineering and construction standards are followed throughout the design, constructability of the design, and compliance with RUS and NESC specifications as necessary.

- Responsible for interfacing with landowners to obtain easements and/or permission for the construction of the electric facilities.

- Prepare construction sketches and complete staking sheets on forms or by use of computer software packages.

The Hi-Line Engineering (Hi-Line) department is a distribution and transmission design group at GDS Associates, Inc. that provides system design and planning services for electric utilities throughout the United States. Hi-Line's services include medium voltage design for overhead pole lines and underground power systems, system planning and analysis, transmission design, substation design, system modeling and load flow analysis, and specialized design services and general consulting services related to the design, construction, and operation of electric power systems.

Requirements, Experience and Education:

- Technical or associate's degree in related field with at least five (5) years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

- Must Pass a Background Check

Knowledge, Skill And Abilities

- Ability to identify and gather field data on aerial electric distribution lines and structures via technology such as GPS survey equipment, data collection units, laser range finders, and cameras.

- Ability to perform calculations on distribution structures and lines.

- In-depth knowledge of RUS construction units and construction specifications. Knowledge of property deeds, right-of-way easements and acquisition.

- Knowledge in obtaining permits for construction.

- Working knowledge of GPS technology and e-mail

- Proficient in the use of pole line design software.

- Ability to cut right of way and carry a 20-pound pack several miles in rough, uneven terrain.

- Ability to drive stakes to mark location of future poles and anchor placement.

- Ability to work extra hours when necessary to meet project requirements.

- Must have a valid driver's license and to travel to project sites with own transportation.

GDS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please note that this position is not available for visa sponsorship.

Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The salary range for this position is just one component of the firm's total compensation package.

Your Compensation and Benefits:

- Flex Benefits (Flexible Hours, Telecommuting)

- Competitive Pay

- Excellent Health Insurance Benefits

- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Floating Holiday, Holidays)

- 401(k)

- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

- Tuition Reimbursement

Keyword: Power Line Design, Staker, Staking Technician, electric utility, NESC specifications, RUS, permits, construction, civil, clients, medium voltage, project site