Electrician - Disaster Recovery & Damage Assessment
Essel Environmental · Spokane
Position Overview
We are seeking experienced Journeyman Electricians to support disaster recovery operations by conducting electrical damage assessments and safety evaluations following wildfires, hurricanes, floods, storms, and other natural disasters. This role is ideal for electricians with strong troubleshooting and inspection experience who can safely evaluate damaged electrical systems and identify hazards in the field.
Candidates must be comfortable working in disaster-affected environments, documenting findings, and collaborating with emergency response teams to ensure electrical systems are safe for restoration.
Responsibilities
- Perform inspections and damage assessments of residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems impacted by natural disasters.
- Evaluate electrical infrastructure for fire, smoke, water, and storm-related damage.
- Inspect service equipment, switchgear, distribution panels, transformers, generators, and electrical distribution systems.
- Identify and document electrical hazards, unsafe conditions, and code violations.
- Assess photovoltaic (PV) solar systems, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), backup generators, and EV charging infrastructure.
- Troubleshoot damaged electrical systems and determine repair or replacement recommendations.
- Prepare detailed inspection reports, photographs, and field documentation using electronic devices.
- Ensure compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), OSHA regulations, and industry safety standards.
- Coordinate with utility companies, emergency management personnel, contractors, and other stakeholders during disaster response operations.
- Maintain a strong commitment to safety while working in hazardous or unstable environments.
- Travel nationwide and deploy on short notice as disaster response needs arise.
Requirements
- Active Journeyman Electrician License (required).
- Minimum 5 years of experience inspecting, troubleshooting, installing, or assessing electrical systems.
- Strong experience with commercial, industrial, or utility electrical systems.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, one-line diagrams, and technical documentation.
- Proficient with electrical testing and diagnostic equipment.
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience evaluating electrical systems following wildfires, hurricanes, floods, storms, or other natural disasters.
- Knowledge of damage assessment and infrastructure restoration practices.
- Experience identifying hazards involving:
- Energized electrical equipment
- Distribution systems
- Switchgear
- Transformers
- Photovoltaic (PV) solar systems
- Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
- Backup generators
- EV charging infrastructure
- Working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC), OSHA electrical safety standards, NFPA 70E, and utility safety practices.
- Familiarity with the Incident Command System (ICS) or FEMA emergency response environments.
- Previous experience supporting utility restoration, emergency response, or infrastructure recovery projects.
Required Skills
- Electrical troubleshooting and diagnostics
- Electrical inspections and damage assessments
- Hazard recognition and risk mitigation
- Electrical safety and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
- Technical report writing and documentation
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently in fast-paced environments
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and kneel for extended periods.
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Work in outdoor environments, including disaster-affected areas with uneven terrain.
- Wear required PPE and safely navigate hazardous work environments.
- Ability to work extended shifts, including overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed.
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