Lock and Dam Operator

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers•Ottawa, IL

19h•Onsite

About The Position

The Lock and Dam Operator works at Starved Rock Lock and Dam in Ottawa, Illinois. The operator exercises authority over lock use by issuing instructions to craft operators and serves as the lead member of a two-person crew responsible for making lockages. The role includes directing lower-graded employees, explaining assignments and procedures, conducting shift turnover, locking vessels through the site, and performing project security. The position involves operating and maintaining lock and dam equipment, conducting operational and functional checks, and performing or directing repairs and maintenance. The operator moves barges with a tow haulage unit, controls valves and dam gates, monitors river and weather conditions, and responds to accidents. The operator enforces safety requirements, ensures proper use of personal protective equipment, records river gauge readings and lockage statistics, and enters required data into the Lock Performance Monitoring System (LPMS). Work is normally performed on a rotating shift, including weekends and holidays. The position is mission essential, requires wearing a uniform and/or protective clothing, and may require current first aid, CPR, and/or AED certification. The work is predominantly outdoors and includes exposure to extreme weather, water, equipment, restricted or cramped spaces, and other hazards. Physical duties include prolonged moderate to arduous effort, standing, bending, stooping, occasional lifting over 50 pounds, and maneuvering bulky equipment.

Requirements

Demonstrated ability to perform Lock and Dam Operator work without more than normal supervision, including operating electrically or hydraulically controlled gates and valves as directed.
Experience making minor repairs to lock and dam equipment.
Knowledge of locking procedures, policies, and laws concerning traffic right-of-way, sequence of operations, and safe passage of hazardous commodities and damaged craft.
Ability to interpret instructions and specifications.
Dexterity and knowledge of safety practices.
Knowledge of equipment assembly, installation, repair, and operation of equipment and machinery.
Knowledge of technical practices and ability to use measuring instruments.
Valid state driver's license, subject to job-related, site-specific requirements.
Ability to work rotating shifts that include weekends and holidays.
Ability to wear a uniform and/or protective clothing.
A medical examination and satisfactory completion of that examination before assignment.
Must comply with the Drug Abuse Testing Program; this is a testing-designated position subject to applicant and random drug testing.
Appointment may require a favorable suitability or fitness determination based on a background investigation.
Must provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
May be required to hold a current American Red Cross Standard First Aid card, CPR, and/or AED certification and complete refresher training.
Physical ability to operate controls and handle lines while observing traffic and personnel; stand, stoop, bend, stretch, work in cramped spaces, occasionally lift over 50 pounds, and maneuver bulky items or equipment.
Only applicants who meet an eligible employment authority category listed in the announcement may apply.

Responsibilities

Issue instructions to craft operators and exercise authority over use of the lock.
Serve as lead member of a two-person crew responsible for making lockages.
Direct lower-graded employees in operating lock and dam equipment; explain assignments, procedures, and safe operating methods.
Conduct thorough shift turnovers with the oncoming shift.
Lock vessels through the lock and dam site and perform overall project security.
Perform or direct equipment repairs and maintenance, including operational or functional checks of machinery.
Maintain lock and dam features according to written documentation or oral instructions.
Operate tow haulage equipment to move barges into and out of the lock chamber.
Control valves for filling and emptying operations and operate controls to raise or lower dam gates.
Respond to accidents, assist and make the situation safe, and complete required notifications.
Observe weather, ice, river, and vessel conditions relevant to safe lock entry and operation.
Enforce safety regulations, identify hazards, and instruct others in safe operating procedures.
Ensure safety equipment and personal protective clothing are worn properly.
Read, monitor, and record river gauge readings and confirm water levels are suitable for gate operation.
Obtain or direct the collection and recording of required statistical data for each lockage and enter it into LPMS.
Complete accident and incident reports within established timeframes.