Lock And Dam Operator

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers•Chicago, IL
•Onsite

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • Designated Position. This position meets criteria for random drug testing under the Department of the Army (DA) Drug-Free Federal Workplace Program.
  • Mission Essential. This position is not subject to administrative dismissal in emergencies based on inclement weather conditions, or other emergency situations, as appropriate.
  • Days of operations and typical daily schedules will vary based on site-specific work requirements. Work schedules and hours of operation are locally determined based on work requirements.
  • May be required to maintain an American Red Cross Standard First Aid card in good standing, based on site-specific requirements.
  • Required to completed refresher training and 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.
  • US Citizens
  • Ability to do the work of a LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR without more than normal supervision.
  • At a minimum, your level of experience must show that you have performed various simple maintenance or repair tasks utilizing mechanical or electrical equipment; and operated simple electrical or mechanical equipment such as: lawn mowers, hedge clippers, electric drills, power wrenches, and hydraulic lifts.
  • Eye and hand coordination for operating various controls and handling lines while observing traffic and personnel, during crane lifting operations, lifting dam gates, etc.
  • 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.
  • This position requires a 1 year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Nice To Haves

  • Newly-Appointed Lock and Dam Operators (LDOs) must successfully complete certification requirements before promotion to the full performance level may be effected. 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.

Responsibilities

  • Handle bow or stern lines, walk lines in proper locations along the wall, and snub lines to assist pilot in maneuvering craft into position.
  • Operate electric gate controls to open or close gates at one end of the lock chamber.
  • Operate electrically controlled tow haulage unit to move barges into and out of lock chamber.
  • Contact boat pilots to obtain data such as number of passengers, tonnage and commodities being transported, point of origin and destination, etc.
  • Secure lines and slings to materials or equipment being moved and provide hand signals to operator for moving items to and from barges or trucks, or place bulkheads, etc.
  • Perform a variety of tasks in providing assistance to and/or personally performing work required for the installation, repair, and maintenance of lock or lock and dam machinery and equipment of equipment of mechanical or electrical type.
  • Perform carpentry or plumbing required for major construction or repair maintenance; concrete work, etc.
  • Perform seasonal duties such as grass cutting, trimming, gardening; shoveling snow, clearing ice; as well as janitorial tasks such as cleaning control house and other site buildings, restrooms, facilities, standby equipment, etc.

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.
  • Learn 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.
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