Electric utility engineer

JOB

Electric utility engineer

Electrical Industry and Computer Technology

An electric utility engineer works on the installation and repair of electricity transmission and distribution systems. Work is carried out on high-voltage installations and laying high-voltage lines, as well as the operation and maintenance of high-voltage lines, often in demanding conditions far away from towns or cities. An electric utility engineer has a solid knowledge of electrical equipment for electrical motors and control equipment related to electrical supply systems. Electric utility engineer is a legally protected job title.

Electric utility engineers often work outside, inspecting and repairing using the appropriate measuring equipment and hand tools.

Main tasks

• maintenance of utilities; repairing broken cables, stretching overhead lines and defrosting
• erect high voltage poles and stringing lines between them
• laying cables in the ground
• installing distribution transformers, substations and transformer stations and steering and safety equipment
• gauging electric resistance in a power plant, substation, transformer station or line

Competence requirements

An electric utility engineer must be well acquainted with electrical equipment, electrical motors, industrial computer controls and control equipment of electrical systems, be able to read design drawings, perform simple troubleshooting and maintain electrical equipment and explain its function.

As an electric utility engineer, it is important to be well acquainted with safety issues in the industry, be able to respond to electrical accidents and consider environmental issues and appropriate treatment of nature and its resources.

Study

Electric utility engineering is taught at Tækniskólinn but a two-year basic degree in electrical engineering is also offered at many secondary schools. The average study time in electric utility engineering is two semesters after completing electrician studies, in addition to 30 weeks of internship.

Validation of prior learning has taken place and/or may be available.