Drill Rig Operator

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers•Vicksburg, MS

About The Position

Acts as the principal operator on a core drill party assigned to subsurface investigation projects throughout the United States. The position is filled at the WG-08 level with a target of WG-11; the described duties reflect the full-performance WG-11 level and are performed developmentally under close supervision. The operator installs and operates drilling equipment, recognizes changes in geological formations from equipment reactions, and conducts field reconnaissance. The role may include assisting the drill crew leader with laying out borings and identifying access routes, water sources, and other physical features. Special methods and test procedures are often required to obtain subsurface data. In performing these duties, the employee supervises two or more WG-8 drill rig operators or WG-5 drill rig operator helpers. The position requires travel up to 95% of the time, a current Class B Commercial Driver's License, and operation of Government-owned vehicles and, when needed, outboard motorboats. The employee participates in the district's HTRW program and annual medical surveillance, including an annual physical examination. Appropriate protective clothing and equipment must be worn and used, including a respirator on occasion. The role is subject to random drug and alcohol testing and requires signing a safety-sensitive-position condition-of-employment form. Work takes place outdoors in all kinds of weather and involves substantial physical effort, noise, and exposure to environmental and job-site hazards.

Requirements

Demonstrate the ability to perform common use of a core drill rig and load, inspect, and safely secure supplies and equipment for a drilling assignment without more than normal supervision.
Possess and maintain a current Class B Commercial Driver's License.
Pass an annual medical surveillance physical examination.
Participate in the district's HTRW program and annual medical surveillance program.
Wear and use appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment, including occasional respirator use.
Meet the requirements for random drug and alcohol testing and sign the required safety-sensitive-position condition-of-employment form.
Provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
Be able to stand for prolonged periods; walk, bend, push, reach, pull, and lift; handle objects frequently weighing 40 to 75 pounds and occasionally up to 150 pounds; and respond quickly to changing drilling conditions.
Meet the applicable employment-authority eligibility requirements listed in the announcement.

Responsibilities

Determine when different formations are encountered by interpreting reactions of drilling equipment, such as resistance to penetration and motor sounds.
Install and operate drilling equipment.
Conduct field reconnaissance of work sites and nearby areas.
Assist the drill crew leader with laying out borings when required, noting access routes, sources of drilling water, and other physical features.
Supervise two or more WG-8 drill rig operators or WG-5 drill rig operator helpers.
Load and check supplies and equipment before drilling assignments, ensuring items are in working order and loads are safely secured.
Drive Government-owned vehicles and operate outboard motorboats as required for assigned duties.