August 05, 2026

Description of work 

If you are seeking an entry-level position in the utilities industry, we may have the ideal job for you.  Canton Municipal Utilities (CMU) is a municipal government utility company that is recruiting for an Apprentice Lineman.  The Apprentice Lineman is the entry-level class for this skilled electrical trade.  Under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform basic aspects of the trade and work with energized high-voltage distribution or transmission line voltages, while assisting linemen with the construction, maintenance, and repair of the electrical overhead and underground distribution and transmission systems. Install, repair, and maintain overhead and underground electrical power lines and auxiliary equipment.  

THE ESSENTIAL DUTIES: 

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the class.

Examples of essential duties include:

• Learn and assist with performing the construction, maintenance, and repairs on the electrical overhead and underground distribution and transmission system.
• Learn and assist with operating, inspecting, and maintaining aerial devices, digger/derricks, excavation equipment, and other electric line-related equipment.
• Learn and observe proper safety precautions, particularly when working on or near energized circuits and with hazardous chemicals.
• Dig pole and anchor holes.  Load and unload, remove and install, and transport framing poles.  Set transformers and pull underground primary and secondary conductors.
• Assist with performing distribution switching, documentation and mapping information, and perform other related duties as assigned.
• Must be able to climb a power pole using climbing hooks and a belt.
• All other duties as required or requested by Supervisor.
• Work Environment & Physical Demands:
• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, bending, stooping, climbing, and pushing/pulling.
• Using a hoist and dollies to lift and move heavy objects.
• Physically lifting and moving objects weighing up to 50 lbs. on a frequent basis.
• Ability to perform essential duties in an environment that entails a variety of weather conditions (rain, heat, sun, cold) and extreme temperatures.
• Working at heights of up to 60’ above ground level.
• Must participate as needed in working overtime on evenings and weekends.
• Must be able to respond within 30 minutes to the Utility Service Center when on-call.
• Available for 24-hour on-call and emergency response.
• Must be able to pass pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR (motor vehicle records) check.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of and the ability to use the following equipment:  manual digging devices, wrenches, hammers, saws, and other equipment with proper hearing protection.
• Must work well with the public and customers.
• Must have good attendance, be dependable, demonstrate initiative, and work well in a team environment.
• Must be able to communicate well with other employees, utilities, and customers (verbal and written).
• Must be motivated, attentive, and alert.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Valid commercial driver’s license (Class A or B) required with clean driving record.
• Minimum two (2) years’ experience with power line construction, transmission/distribution preferred.
• Must have basic knowledge of electricity, pole-line materials, and the proper and safe use of tools and equipment for line construction and maintenance.
• Must be proficient in pole-top and bucket rescue procedures.
• Should possess the ability to climb poles and exercise proper and safe use of hand tools while working on a pole, under strict supervision.

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume to:

 ATTN:  Director, Human Resources-CMU

127 West Peace Street

Canton, MS  39046

Email To: hr@cmu.com 

Resumes’ must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the closing date of this announcement or August 19, 2026