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.
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.
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.
Perform diagnosis, maintenance, repair, testing, and installation of electrical equipment and systems, including highly complex equipment and systems.
Responsible for operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the electrical systems for operating various equipment on the floating plant.
Disassemble interlocking and interrelated electrical, mechanical systems, subsystems, standby and related equipment to determine extent of repairs, overhaul and/or replacement parts needed.
Provide technical expertise to other journeyman level wage grade employees involved in the repair, maintenance, and use of a wide range of standard and complex industrial equipment that operates based on electrical/electronic systems.
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.