Lock and Dam Operator

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • East Alton, IL

2d

About The Position

Works as a shift head lock and dam operator at a Corps of Engineers navigation facility within the Inland Marine Transportation System (IMTS). The operator is immediately responsible for site installation operations during second, third, or swing shift, or on leave days. The position operates electrically, electronically, and/or hydraulically controlled lock or lock-and-dam gates, control valves, and associated equipment needed to pass private and commercial traffic.

During shift operations, the operator exercises primary authority over lock use by instructing towboat captains and other craft operators, setting the precedence of entry, and maintaining proper procedures. The operator works alone or leads a two-person crew making lockages; handles and secures vessel lines; operates gate controls; and removes debris or ice that could damage equipment. The operator also performs operational and functional equipment checks, identifies potential unsafe conditions, takes corrective steps or reports issues to a supervisor, and performs, assists with, or directs maintenance work.

The position is at an IMTS facility. Operating days and schedules vary by site, and operators may alternate among shifts and work weekends and weekdays. The position is mission essential, subject to random drug testing, requires a pre-employment physical, and may require first aid, CPR, or AED certification, a prescribed uniform, and a valid driver's license depending on site requirements. Refresher training is required to maintain certification, and temporary duty travel may be required up to 25%. The job requires lifting at least 50 pounds and involves substantial outdoor work in varied weather and other potentially hazardous conditions.

Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to perform the full range of lock operations without more than normal supervision, including operating electrically or hydraulically controlled lock and dam gates and valves, providing locking instructions, and determining whether craft can be locked safely.
• Ability to interpret instructions and specifications.
• Dexterity and knowledge of safety.
• Knowledge of equipment assembly, installation, and repair.
• Ability to operate equipment and machinery.
• Knowledge of technical practices and ability to use measuring instruments.
• Ability to meet the physical demands, including eye-hand coordination, standing, stooping, bending, occasional lifting over 50 pounds, stretching, working in cramped spaces, and handling or maneuvering bulky equipment.
• U.S. citizenship and proof of citizenship are required.
• A pre-employment physical is required.
• Must observe safe working procedures and use required protective clothing and equipment.
• Must complete refresher training to maintain certification.
• May be required, depending on site requirements, to hold a current American Red Cross Standard First Aid card and CPR and/or AED certification, wear a prescribed uniform, and hold a valid state driver's license.
• Must be available to alternate working hours across shifts and work weekends and weekdays as site requirements dictate.
• Temporary duty travel may be required up to 25%.
• Appointment is subject to a favorable suitability or fitness determination and background investigation.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
• A one-year probationary period is required.
• Direct deposit of pay is required.

Responsibilities

• Exercise primary authority over lock use during a shift by instructing towboat captains and other craft operators, setting entry precedence, and maintaining proper procedures.
• Perform lockages alone or as the responsible lead of a two-person crew.
• Handle vessel bow or stern lines, guide and secure lines along the lock wall, and assist pilots in maneuvering craft into position.
• Operate electrical, electronic, and/or hydraulic controls to open and close lock gates and operate associated equipment.
• Remove debris or ice from gate paths and lock-wall recesses as needed to prevent equipment or machinery damage.
• Perform continuing and special operational or functional checks on machinery to prevent breakdowns and identify unsafe conditions.
• Take steps to remedy unsafe or equipment conditions and/or report them to a supervisor.
• Perform, assist with, or direct journeyman or sub-journeyman work.
• Observe established safe working procedures and use required protective clothing and equipment.
• Complete refresher training to maintain certification.

Benefits

• The job offers a comprehensive federal employee benefits package for the employee and family; specific benefits depend on position type and should be confirmed with the hiring agency.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed