Electrical Engineer (Hydropower)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • Little Rock, AR

2d • Onsite

About The Position

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) position in the competitive service with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Little Rock District, Operations Division. The position is in the Hydropower Engineering Section in Little Rock, Arkansas. The engineer conducts investigations and feasibility studies for major maintenance and design projects; provides technical advice during equipment breakdowns; and performs engineering analysis, calculations, programming, and troubleshooting of SCADA systems. The role also coordinates power plant equipment design and works with the Engineering and Construction Division and project superintendents on inspections and maintenance of hydroelectric generating units. The position may involve conferences with contractors, discussion of plant modifications, and directing lower-grade employees.

The position is open to U.S. citizens. Qualification may be based on specialized experience, education, or a combination of education and experience at the GS-11 level; GS-12 qualification requires specialized experience alone. Appointment may be subject to a background investigation and suitability or fitness determination. A one-year probationary period is required. Direct deposit is required, and permanent change-of-station costs may be authorized subject to applicable regulations and agency determination.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Meet the basic education and experience requirements for professional engineers.
• For GS-11, have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-09 covering at least two of the following: providing technical advice during major equipment breakdowns and developing replacement work methods; preparing project cost estimates, priority schedules, and Hydropower Mission budget documentation; or participating in the design of electrical and mechanical equipment to meet design requirements and project objectives.
• For GS-11, education may alternatively qualify: a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree, or three full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree in a relevant field such as engineering. A qualifying combination of education and experience may also be used.
• For GS-12, have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11 covering at least two of the following: inspecting and maintaining hydroelectric generating units and associated equipment; reviewing and evaluating contractor and manufacturer shop drawings for equipment and system designs; or evaluating SCADA for operations and maintenance facility project processes. Education cannot substitute for experience at GS-12.
• Foreign education used to meet qualifications must be evaluated by a qualified private organization as equivalent to U.S. education, or receive full credit for courses at an accredited U.S. college or university.
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
• Complete a one-year probationary period; continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
• Use direct deposit for pay.

Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site investigations and feasibility studies to define requirements for major maintenance and design projects.
• Provide expert technical advice during major breakdowns, analyze complex issues, and develop work methods for equipment replacement.
• Perform engineering calculations, analysis, programming, and troubleshooting of SCADA systems.
• Coordinate the design of power plant equipment to ensure it meets design requirements.
• Work with the Engineering and Construction Division and project superintendents on major inspections and maintenance of hydroelectric generating units.
• Participate in conferences with contractors and discuss plant modifications.
• Direct the work of lower-grade employees.

Benefits

• A comprehensive federal employee benefits package is available to eligible employees and their families; specific eligibility depends on position type.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree