Lock and Dam Operator

Summary This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoW Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. About the Position: This job announcement will fill multiple vacancies for a Lock and Dam Operator at the full performance level (FPL) of WY-08. Positions may be filled at the WY-05, WY-07 or WY-08. Duties As a journeyman lock and dam operator at a Corps of Engineers navigation facility, operate electrically, electronically, and/or hydraulically controlled lock or lock and dam gates, required for passage of a variety of private and commercial traffic. During shift operation exercises primary authority overuse of lock through issuance of instructions to tow boat captains and other craft operators, setting of precedence of entry, and through maintaining proper procedural operation. Assist in perform diagnosis, maintenance, repair, testing, and installation of electrical equipment and systems, including highly complex equipment and systems. Assist with the disassemble interlocking and interrelated electrical, mechanical systems, subsystems, standby and related equipment to determine extent of repairs, overhaul and/or replacement parts needed. Perform other installation repair and maintenance tasks requiring application of trade skills and knowledges. Operate electric gate controls to open or close miter gates and culvert/stone gate valves at each end of the lock chamber(s). Operate electrically controlled tow haulage unit to move barges into and out of lock chambers on River projects. Requirements Conditions of employment Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation. Schedules will vary based on site specific work requirements. Typical schedules may consist of 1, 2, or 3 specific shift schedules. May be required to alternate working hours on all shifts and on weekends, as well as weekdays. Position requires that you must refrain from the use of illegal drugs and submit to drug testing when directed. This may be a Mission Essential position and is not subject to administrative dismissal in emergencies based on inclement weather conditions, or other emergency situations, as appropriate. Incumbent may be required to maintain an American Red Cross Standard First Aid card, CPR, and/or AED in good standing and/or wear prescribed uniform based on site specific requirements. Incumbent of this position will be required to complete refresher training to maintain certification. Employees are required to observe established safe working procedures. Appropriate protective clothing and/or equipment is provided to minimize or eliminate hazardous conditions, and its use is mandatory. Position requires standing, stooping, bending, and lifting in excess of 50 pounds, stretching, working in cramped positions, handling or maneuvering bulky items or equipment, and general continuous moderate to arduous physical activity. Incumbent is required to take a pre-employment physical. This position may require a valid State motor vehicle operator's license prior to appointment and maintain the license for the duration of employment. This position requires work in all types of weather from sub-zero to extreme heat. Incumbent may also be required to have a valid state driver’s license based on job-related, site-specific requirements. Must upload IMTS Certification to application package to be considered for WY-08. Must upload proof of passing IMTS test completing WY-05 to be considered for WY-07 grade. Qualifications Who May Apply: US Citizens Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision. Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. WY-08: Level of experience must show that you have the ability to perform the full range of journeyman lock operator tasks which includes operating lock and dam gates and control valves that are electrically or hydraulically controlled or where the dam is a movable wicket-type structure; providing locking instructions to others, determining whether a craft desiring lockage can be locked safely; reading, interpreting, and following operating instructions for most equipment without supervisory assistance, recognizing and avoiding potential work hazards, and performing repairs necessary to keep the lock in operation, working on own initiative under general supervision subject to occasional inspection. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating. WY-07: Level of experience must show the ability to operate electrically and/or hydraulically controlled lock or lock and dam gates, control valves, and other associated equipment required for passage of a variety of private and commercial traffic through the lock structure and the maintenance of required pool levels. Must show proof of passing IMTS testing from WY-05 level. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating. WY-05: Level of experience must show that you have the ability to perform simple maintenance or repair tasks or I have received training on the use of basic hand tools such as hammer or screwdriver and can perform simple maintenance associated with these tools. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible WORK SCHEDULES: This position is located at an IMTS facility. Days of operation and typical daily schedules will vary based on site specific work requirements. Typical schedules may consist of 1, 2, or 3 specific shift schedules. Operators may be required to alternate working hours on all shifts and on weekends, as well as weekdays. Sites with limited commercial use may operate on reduced work schedules. In all cases, work schedules and hours of operation are locally determined based on work requirements PHYSICAL EFFORTS: Eye and hand coordination for operating various controls and handling lines while observing traffic and personnel, during crane lifting operations, lifting dam gates, etc. There is standing, stooping, bending, occasionally lifting in excess of 50 pounds, stretching, working in cramped positions, handling or maneuvering bulky items or equipment, and general continuous moderate to arduous physical activity. IMTS Lock and Dam Operator Training and Certification Program: These positions fall under the USACE Inland Marine Transportation System (IMTS). Employees at WY-05 and WY-07 will participate in a formalized training and development program for Lock and Dam Operators involving on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and related correspondence courses. Trainee positions at WY-05 afford the opportunity for career progression to the intermediate grade of WY-07; and final grade of WY-08 after successful completion of training and certification requirements. Newly Appointed Lock and Dam Operators (LDOs) must successfully complete certification requirements before promotion to the full performance level may be affected. Certification is not a condition of employment. However, failing to meet certification requirements could result in adverse consequences. Certification is voluntary for Current LDOs. Although not required, current LDOs are encouraged to obtain certification as it may be helpful when seeking advancement through competitive or noncompetitive opportunities. IMTS-Certified LDOs must successfully complete refresher training, as required, to maintain certification. Additional information Relocation/Recruitment Incentives may be authorized (up to 25%). Pay will be set based on duty location and grade level. Visit https://wageandsalary.dcpas.osd.mil/BWN/AFWageSchedules/ for the current FWS Locality Pay Tables. Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration. You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship. One year trial/probationary period may be required. Appointment is subject to the completion of a favorable suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a background investigation. Direct deposit of pay is required. This is a(n) Lock and Dam Operating Career Field position. Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees. If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet. Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement. Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement. When you perform a Civilian Permanent Change of Station (PCS) with the government, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers the majority of your entitlements to be taxable. Visit https://www.dfas.mil/civilianemployees/civrelo/Civilian-Moving-Expenses-Tax-Deduction/ for more information. Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances may be authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations and an agency determination that a PCS move is in the Government Interest. Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Benefits A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits. Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.