SMECO (Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative) has immediate openings for Apprentice #1 positions in our Hughesville and Leonardtown locations. The Apprentice Lineman's training program is accredited by the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, administered by SMECO with curriculum provided by the Northwest Lineman's College and manage by SMECO's Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (JATC), members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and SMECO's management team. Classroom instruction and practical application of acquired skills are components of this four-year course of study. Graduates of the program are promoted to the position of Journeyman Lineman. SMECO hopes to fill these positions by mid October. Interested parties are encouraged to apply via SMECO's website. This posting will close on July 19, 2019 . Responsibilities: Assists crew by handling material, framing and setting poles, pulling guy wires and cable, etc; also assists in installing conduit, transformers and switch pads, and performs other related Groundman duties. Learns climbing techniques on poles with de-energized lines. Must accumulate 400 climbing hours prior to advancing to Apprentice #5, with a total of 700 climbing hours, prior to advancing to Apprentice #8. Learns proper care and maintenance of climbing equipment, tools and ropes. Learns general safety requirements and applies same to daily work; immediately notifies assigned supervisor of any accidents. Learns to operate automotive and construction equipment and the required maintenance of the same. Learns communication skills; including hand signals and radio communications protocol. Studies basic electrical theory and applies knowledge of the same. Learns to replenish truck stock on a regular basis or as required by crew chief. Learns basic computer skills. May assist Journeyman Lineman or above in opening and closing 100 and 300 amp switches, using an extendo stick. Learns personal and job safety requirements, including pole top rescue procedures. Performs work in a manhole, where all circuits are de-energized. In addition, other duties of equal or lesser skill may be assigned by the Chief Lineman, Operation Supervisor, or assigned supervisor, to meet emergencies or other operating needs.