Power Plant Mechanic Trainee II/III

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • Pickstown, SD

6h • Onsite

About The Position

This is a Direct Hire Authority solicitation to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. The Power Plant Mechanic Trainee works under journeyman guidance to inspect, adjust, maintain, repair, test, install, and modify mechanical equipment, systems, and structures in a hydroelectric power plant, switchyard, and associated water control structures. Online study and on-the-job assignments connect basic theory with practical operation and maintenance of hydroelectric projects. Work is closely reviewed, and trainees must meet Federal employment standards, learn the study material, and demonstrate the ability to perform the trade.

The principal assignment is in the powerhouse, though work may also take place at intake structures and spillway areas. The position involves strenuous physical work and exposure to machinery, heights, confined spaces, weather extremes, and other workplace hazards. Protective clothing and equipment are required. The position is not eligible for telework. Management may select at the Trainee II or Trainee III grade level, with noncompetitive promotion potential to the target grade of Power Plant Mechanic (DR).

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship.
• Obtain and maintain a valid state driver's license.
• Complete a pre-employment physical and participate in the Medical Surveillance Program.
• Participate in the mandatory Drug and Alcohol Testing Program; this is a Drug and Alcohol Testing Designated Position.
• Demonstrate the ability to perform the work without more than normal supervision.
• Trainee II: Identify and use basic hand tools, including sockets, wrenches, grease guns, and impact drivers, for basic servicing under continuous step-by-step instruction and direct oversight.
• Trainee III: Disassemble, clean, and reassemble routine mechanical components under direct guidance; perform basic shop math; and perform torch cutting or pipe threading with periodic coaching.
• Meet the physical demands of the position, including extensive walking, standing, climbing, stooping, bending, kneeling, crawling, and working in awkward or cramped positions.
• Frequently lift and carry tools, equipment, and supplies weighing up to and over 45 pounds; perform tasks requiring up to 75 pounds of pulling or turning force.
• Have good distant vision in each eye and be able to read fine calibrations; glasses are permitted. Distinguish basic colors and hear conversational speech, with or without a hearing aid.
• Wear required protective clothing and equipment and successfully complete and maintain occupational health requirements, including pulmonary capacity and other routine occupational and pre-employment medical examinations.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship and use direct deposit for pay.
• Complete a one-year probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, diagnose, and perform major repairs on mechanical operating equipment in hydroelectric powerhouses, dams, spillways, and intake structures.
• Diagnose mechanical equipment failures and repair equipment by disassembling, overhauling, installing, and reassembling parts.
• Inspect, test, and adjust powerhouse, dam, spillway, and intake machinery and equipment.
• Perform electric and acetylene welding and machine work to repair or manufacture equipment parts.
• Maintain potable water and sewage treatment equipment.
• Operate aerial lifts, forklifts, bridge cranes, and gantry cranes, and rig heavy loads as needed.
• Operate spillway and flood control gates to control water flows.
• Complete coordinated online study and on-the-job work assignments related to hydroelectric project operation and maintenance.

Benefits

• A comprehensive federal employee benefits package is described; specific benefits depend on position type and eligibility.
• Recruitment incentive may be authorized.
• Relocation incentive may be authorized.
• Student loan repayment may be authorized.
• Permanent Change of Station allowances may be authorized, subject to applicable regulations and agency determination.

What This Job Offers

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