Lock and Dam Operator

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

About The Position

This is a Direct Hire Authority solicitation to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to competitive-service positions. The incumbent participates as a trainee in a formal training and development program for lock and dam operators, including on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and correspondence courses. The position is developmental to the intermediate grade of WY-07, with a target of WY-08. During lockages, the trainee works as part of a two-person team, handling and securing lines and assisting pilots in maneuvering craft into position. The operator uses electrical gate controls and supports service bridge boom crane operations. The work also includes assisting with installation, repair, and maintenance of mechanical or electrical lock and dam machinery and equipment, along with seasonal groundskeeping and snow or ice removal and janitorial tasks. The position is at an IMTS facility. Operating days and typical schedules vary by site, and operators may alternate shifts and work weekends and weekdays. Work is predominantly outdoors in varied weather and may involve restricted or cramped areas, electrical and manual tools, fall hazards, and work near water. Protective clothing and equipment are provided and must be used. A pre-employment physical and random drug testing apply. TDY may be required up to 25%, and refresher training is required to maintain certification. Site-specific requirements may include first aid, CPR, or AED certification, a prescribed uniform, and a valid state driver's license. The incumbent may be designated Mission Essential by the district. A one-year probationary period applies.

Requirements

U.S. citizenship; proof of citizenship is required.
Demonstrate sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the work without more than normal supervision; no specific length of training or experience is required.
For the WY-5426-05 screen-out element, demonstrate ability to perform common lock operations and maintenance or repair tasks using mechanical or electrical equipment, such as lawn mowers, hedge clippers, electrical drills, and manual wrenches.
Pass a pre-employment physical.
Meet random drug-testing requirements.
Lift at least 50 pounds; the work may occasionally require lifting in excess of 50 pounds.
Observe established safe working procedures and use mandatory protective clothing and equipment.
Complete required refresher training to maintain certification.
Be available to alternate working hours on all shifts and work weekends or weekdays, as site requirements dictate.
TDY may be required up to 25%.
A one-year probationary period is required.
Site-specific requirements may include an American Red Cross Standard First Aid card, CPR and/or AED certification, wearing a prescribed uniform, and a valid state driver's license.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.

Responsibilities

Participate in on-the-job, classroom, and correspondence-course training for lock and dam operator personnel.
Work as part of a two-person team during lockages; handle bow or stern lines, position lines along the wall, snub lines, and secure towlines to assist pilots in maneuvering craft.
Operate electrical gate controls to open or close gates at one end of the lock chamber.
Serve as groundman during operation of the service bridge boom crane; attach lines and slings to items being moved and provide hand signals to the crane operator.
Assist with or personally perform installation, repair, and maintenance of mechanical or electrical lock and dam machinery and equipment.
Perform seasonal groundskeeping duties, including grass cutting, trimming, gardening, snow shoveling, and ice clearing.
Perform janitorial tasks, including cleaning the control house, other site buildings, restrooms, and standby equipment.
Observe established safe working procedures and use required protective clothing and equipment.
Complete refresher training to maintain certification.