Small Craft Operator

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • Aberdeen, WA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

This position operates a survey boat engaged in reconnaissance and hydrographic surveys supporting the maintenance and improvement of coastal harbors, bars, estuaries, and river navigation channels. The operator runs powered survey boats under 65 feet during hydrographic survey work, maintains required speeds and courses, and uses computer-aided devices such as steering indicators and monitors to keep the vessel within prescribed tolerances.

The position maintains logs of events, survey areas, transits, fuel use, and equipment hours; coordinates supplies and services with the Chief of the Waterway Maintenance Unit; and procures repair equipment in emergencies using acquisition procedures. The operator leads or assists with district motorboat operator licensing courses, performs preventive maintenance and repairs on survey boats and related equipment, and prepares scopes of work and government estimates for contracted vessel service and maintenance.

Work is generally performed in a pilothouse, with time on deck in varied weather and water conditions. Operations include unprotected coastal waters, Puget Sound and adjacent waters, estuaries, and rivers, with exposure to hazards such as storms, rough water, tides, wind, and abnormal currents. The position involves exposure to noise above 80 decibels and regular exposure to acids, solvents, and paints. Protective clothing and equipment are provided and must be used. Physical work includes maintaining boat equipment, handling survey equipment, standing for prolonged periods, and climbing narrow, steep stairways and ladders. The employee must also operate a motor vehicle to reach vessels and transfer them between worksites.

Requirements

• For the XF-10 grade level: Current United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).
• For the XF-10 grade level: Deck Officer—Master of Self-Propelled Vessels Not Including Auxiliary Sail of Less than 100 Gross Registered Tons (GRT), or higher, Upon Near Coastal Waters, with Deck Officer—Radar Observer (Unlimited).
• For the XF-10 grade level: Current Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
• For the XF-11 grade level: Current United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).
• For the XF-11 grade level: Deck Officer—Master of Self-Propelled Vessels Not Including Auxiliary Sail of Less than 100 Gross Registered Tons (GRT), or higher, Upon Near Coastal Waters, with Deck Officer—Radar Observer (Unlimited).
• For the XF-11 grade level: USCG Deck Officer—Master of Self-Propelled Vessels Not Including Auxiliary Sail of Less than 200 Gross Registered Tons (GRT), or higher, Upon Inland Waters.
• For the XF-11 grade level: Current Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
• Upload a copy of each required credential with the application.
• Demonstrate the ability to perform the work of a Small Craft Operator without more than normal supervision.
• Operate a variety of boats, work boats, and towboats ranging from 13 to 104 feet on near-shore, inland, and river waterways; navigate using electronic navigation systems; handle lines; and operate boats in traffic.
• For XF-11-level work, perform maintenance and minor repairs using common tools and materials, and work on one's own initiative under general supervision subject to occasional inspection.
• Obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid certification.
• Obtain and maintain a valid state driver's license.
• Satisfactorily pass a pre-employment physical for lifting and color/depth perception, and undergo annual physicals thereafter.
• Possess depth and color perception and be able to see in low-visibility conditions.
• Participate in the mandatory drug-testing program.
• Wear and use required personal protective equipment and/or clothing.
• Be able to travel for business and training, including travel outside the district; duty assignments may involve overnight stays up to 50%.
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
• Complete a one-year probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Operate powered survey boats under 65 feet during hydrographic survey work.
• Maintain exact survey speeds and courses, using computer-aided peripheral devices to follow courses and keep the vessel within prescribed tolerances.
• Maintain daily logs of events, survey areas, transits, fuel use, and equipment hours.
• Coordinate with the Chief of the Waterway Maintenance Unit for supplies and services, and procure repair equipment in emergencies using acquisition procedures.
• Lead and assist with motorboat operator licensing courses for the district.
• Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on survey boats, including minor repairs and adjustments to diesel engines, generators, air compressors, and auxiliary equipment.
• Prepare scopes of work and government estimates for contracted vessel service and maintenance.
• Travel to other duty stations and worksites throughout the Seattle District and, as needed, assist other districts.
• Operate a motor vehicle to reach vessels and transfer vessels between worksites.
• Use required personal protective equipment and observe established safe working procedures.

Benefits

• A comprehensive federal employee benefits package is available; eligibility depends on position type and other factors.
• Potential incentives may include student loan repayment, advanced in-hire, relocation incentive, recruitment incentive, or advanced leave accrual.

What This Job Offers

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