Ground Equipment Operator

About Tampa Electric

At Tampa Electric, dependable electricity starts with dedicated individuals whose talent, skill and passion drive our success. We’ve been lighting the way for West Central Florida for more than 125 years—and we’re just getting started.

Tampa Electric and its sister companies serve a role in providing critical services to our community during an emergency. Team members are required to participate in the response/recovery activities related to emergencies/disasters to maintain service to our customers. This is a condition of employment. Team members are required to work in their normal job duties or other assigned activities. Proper compensation will be made in accordance with the company's rules and procedures.

Responding to storms will be considered a condition of employment.

The Groundman Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe operation of line equipment used in the construction and maintenance of Tampa Electric’s power lines. Work on energized systems and respond to emergency overtime is required. Must perform all duties following the safe work practices manual and procedures set forth in the Company Policies. The scope of this position shall include those responsibilities defined in Exhibit "A" of the IBEW Collective Bargaining Agreement and/or the IBEW Intent Book where the position is at a lesser rate of pay.

• Develop knowledge and understanding of the Safe Work Practices Manual.
• Operate line equipment, including tractor‑trailer carrying poles, aerial buckets, cranes, digger derrick, forklift, rear easement machines, wire pulling and tensioning machines.
• Maintain cleanliness and stocking of tools and materials on a line truck; inspect and maintain equipment for safety and efficiency.
• Receive, return, and order tools and materials using proper forms and systems.
• Identify overhead and underground transformers and interpret nameplate information; assist in installation of de‑energized pad mounted transformers and make‑up secondary connections under supervision.
• Be available for emergency call‑outs and overtime to meet customer needs.
• Complete necessary paperwork (material forms, time sheets, etc.) and interpret construction prints and work requests; enter time in computer systems.
• Attend required annual training, obtain certifications, and assist in training new employees.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

N/A

Internal: Operations Personnel, Distribution Design Technicians, Line Supervisors and Operation Managers

External: Frequent customer interactions.

Required: High School diploma or equivalent. Commercial Driver License Class

A.
Preferred: College or technical‑related education.

Required: N/A
Preferred: Knowledge and experience with operating electric utility line construction equipment.

Required: Must have successfully completed or have the ability to pass the Operations Test Battery (OTB).
Preferred: Mechanical aptitude for operating and maintaining tools and equipment.

65% of the time:
Standing, stooping, lifting, squatting, walking, climbing, reaching, bending, and standing.
35% of the time:
Driving, traveling, breaks, equipment operation.

Lifting Requirements:
10 lbs or less: 50%
10‑20 lbs: 25%
20‑30 lbs: 10%
30‑40 lbs: 5%
40‑50 lbs: 5%
50 lbs and over: 5%

Work on de‑energized systems and respond to emergency call‑outs in all types of weather conditions. Requires mechanical aptitude and ability to make decisions in high‑stress situations. May require travel inside and outside the assigned service area. Must be able to work a flexible schedule.

Business & Job Knowledge, Judgment, Produce Results, Teamwork.

Competitive Salary, 401(k) Savings plan with company matching, Pension plan, Paid time off, Paid Holiday time, Medical, Prescription Drug, & Dental Coverage, Tuition Assistance Program, Employee Assistance Program, Wellness Programs, On‑site Fitness Centers, Bonus Plan.

Tampa Electric is proud…