Lock And Dam Operator

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers•Hastings, MN

About The Position

This permanent, full-time position is with the St. Paul District. The Lock and Dam Operator performs maintenance, repair, and operational duties at a navigation lock and dam. Work includes assisting vessels as they enter and move through the lock, operating lock and dam gates and valves, clearing debris or ice from equipment, and conducting equipment checks and maintenance. The role may be filled at different grade levels, with promotion potential to WY-09; promotion is not automatic and depends on qualifications and performance.

Requirements

U.S. citizenship is required.
Demonstrate sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the work without more than normal supervision; there is no specific length of training or experience required.
At WY-05, demonstrate ability to perform common maintenance or repair tasks using mechanical or electrical equipment and operate simple electrical or mechanical equipment.
At WY-07, demonstrate ability to operate lock chamber gates and emptying and filling valves; operate equipment such as radios, hydraulic pumps, air compressors, standby generators, and tow haulage equipment; and perform preventative maintenance.
At WY-09, demonstrate ability to operate electrically or hydraulically controlled lock and dam equipment, gates, and valves; make minor repairs; apply operating procedures and rules for traffic right-of-way and safe passage; and follow safety procedures.
Possess or obtain and maintain a valid state driver's license.
Complete a pre-employment physical examination.
Be able to lift up to 50 pounds; duties may include occasional lifting in excess of 50 pounds and other strenuous physical activities.
Complete Inland Marine Transportation System (IMTS) certification within one year of appointment and complete refresher training to maintain certification.
Work rotating shifts, which may include alternating among all shifts, weekdays, and weekends.
Report to or remain at work during severe weather or other emergencies because the position is mission essential.
Complete a background investigation and any resulting suitability or fitness determination.
Meet the one-year probationary period requirement, unless previously satisfied under applicable regulations.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.

Responsibilities

Handle bow or stern lines, position them along the lock wall, and snub lines to help pilots maneuver craft.
Operate electrical or electronic gate controls to open and close gates at the lock chamber.
Remove debris or ice from gate paths and lock wall recesses to prevent damage to equipment or machinery.
Operate electrically, electronically, or hydraulically controlled valves to control water flow during lock emptying and filling.
Operate tow haulage equipment during double lockages to move barges into and out of the lock chamber.
Operate controls to raise or lower dam gates according to instructions about timing and degree of gate change.
Install, repair, and maintain mechanical or electrical lock and dam machinery and equipment, and perform concrete work.
Perform ongoing and special operational or functional checks on machinery to prevent untimely or dangerous breakdowns.
Perform maintenance and repair tasks on lock and dam equipment.