Power Plant Operator (TC-I)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • The Dalles, OR

5d • Onsite

About The Position

You will serve as a Power Plant Operator at a hydroelectric power project, which may include one or more power plants, with one or more adjunct operating facilities/features consisting of navigation lock, fishways, pumping plant, and spillway. Duties Inspect project areas and equipment as well as observing, checking and reporting operational data to the control room. Operate power project equipment to prescribed standards which includes assuming local control of stopping, starting, synchronizing, and adjusting load and voltage for units and auxiliary equipment. Operate gates to control flows, pool levels, or to discharge debris. Operate navigation lock and control machinery for valves and gates in passing vessels through high, single-lift locks. Perform operator-related preventative maintenance checks and will maintain security surveillance of the project. Perform transmission line disconnects or ground switches as required for clearing circuits on high voltage gear.

Requirements

• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Heavy lifting requirement up to 45lbs.
• Completion of a pre-employment Physical Examination and an annual examination thereafter.
• Requires shift work.
• Requires rotating shifts which include nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be able to obtain and/or maintain a valid state driver's license.
• Duties meet the criteria for compliance with Federal and Department of the Army Drug Free Workplace Programs.
• Subject to a pre-employment screening, and random testing thereafter, to include testing based on reasonable suspicion and testing due to direct involvement with an on-duty accident.
• Ability to do the work of a(n) Power Plant Operator (TC-I) without more than normal supervision.
• Ability to perform common Power Plant Operator duties in a power plant of at least 300-megawatt generation capability.
• The ability to restore a 15 megawatt or larger turbine generator to service after major overhaul in a 300 megawatt or larger power plant.
• Ability to work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed.
• Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc.
• Dexterity and Safety
• Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair, etc.
• Operation of Hydroelectric Power Equipment
• Technical Practices (theoretical, precise, artistic)
• Use of Measuring Instruments
• Eye and hand coordination is required to operate switches and controls.
• Requires extensive walking, standing, and climbing vertical and inclined ladders and stairs.
• Required to operate large valves, lift deck hatches and other jobs requiring pulling or turning force.
• Lifts and carries equipment and supplies frequently up to, and occasionally over, 45 pounds.
• Work requires prolonged standing, walking, climbing, bending, stooping, twisting, pulling, pushing, and kneeling.
• Works on a rotating shift, inside, in well-lighted work area.
• Works outdoors for short periods with exposure to climate extremes.
• Occasionally works in proximity to high voltages and currents.
• Incumbent is often exposed to equipment and machinery noises and outside the control room employee will be subject to the discomfort of wearing safety equipment such as hard-hats, earplugs, and respirators.
• Must wear appropriate safety equipment and protective clothing, and successfully complete and maintain all occupational health requirements.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
• Must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
• Requires a 1 year probationary period.
• Appointment is subject to the completion of a favorable suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a background investigation.
• Direct deposit of pay is required.

Nice To Haves

• You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
• There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Inspect project areas and equipment
• Observe, check and report operational data to the control room
• Operate power project equipment to prescribed standards
• Assume local control of stopping, starting, synchronizing, and adjusting load and voltage for units and auxiliary equipment
• Operate gates to control flows, pool levels, or to discharge debris
• Operate navigation lock and control machinery for valves and gates in passing vessels through high, single-lift locks
• Perform operator-related preventative maintenance checks
• Maintain security surveillance of the project
• Perform transmission line disconnects or ground switches as required for clearing circuits on high voltage gear

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.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

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