Lock and Dam Operator

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; LaSalle (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Starved Rock, La Salle, IL seeks a Lock and Dam Operator. The position supports operating chamber gates and valves, performing routine maintenance, and working under supervision to ensure safe waterways.

The role may be filled at WY-05, WY-07, or WY-08 with potential for advancement; it operates largely outside and involves exposure to weather and water hazards, requiring strict safety adherence.

Qualifications

• Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision.
• Experience with operating lock operations and maintenance tasks.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and use tools as instructed.

Skills

Interpret Instructions

Dexterity

Safety Knowledge

Operate Equipment

Measuring Instruments

Physical Stamina

Job description

About the Position:

This announcement is for a Lock and Dam Operator at Starved Rock in La Salle, IL. Position may be filled at the WY-05, WY-07 or WY-08. If filled at the WY-05 or WY-07 position will have noncompetitive promotional potential to the WY-08. Position is being filled under the Direct Hiring Authority (DHA).

Who May Apply:

US Citizens Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). 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.

Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element):

Ability to do the work of a(n) Lock and Dam Operator~ without more than normal supervision. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.

WY-5426-05 Level:

• To meet the screen out element, applicants should document experience and/or show the ability to: perform common lock operations tasks performing maintenance or repair tasks utilizing mechanical or electrical equipment such as lawn mowers, hedge clippers, electrical drills, and manual wrenches.
• The work will be done under close supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed.

WY-5426-07 Level:

• To meet the screen out element, applicants should document experience and/or show the ability to: perform some lock operations tasks such as: operating chamber gates and the lock chamber emptying and filling valves.
• I am skilled in performing routine preventive maintenance tasks such as oiling and greasing cables of lock and dam equipment, chains, and pulleys; and following specific instructions to perform assignments connected to lock operations.
• I work under supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who reviews my work for completion.

WY-5426-08 Level:

• To meet the screen out element, applicants should document experience and/or show the ability to: perform some lock operations tasks such as: operating chamber gates and the lock chamber emptying and filling valves.
• I am skilled in performing routine preventive maintenance tasks such as oiling and greasing cables of lock and dam equipment, chains, and pulleys; and following specific instructions to perform assignments connected to lock operations.
• I work under supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who reviews my work for completion.

Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (Screen-out Element)

• Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc.
• Dexterity and Safety Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair, etc.
• Operation of Equipment and Machinery Technical Practices (theoretical, precise, artistic)
• Use of Measuring Instruments
• Physical Effort - Eye and hand coordination for operating various controls and handling lines while observing traffic and personnel, during crane lifting operations, lifting dam gates, etc. There is standing, stooping, bending, occasionally lifting in excess of 50 pounds, stretching, working in cramped positions, handling or maneuvering bulky items or equipment, and general continuous moderate to arduous physical activity.

WORKING CONDITIONS- Preponderance of work is performed outside, subject to extremes of temperature and weather.

There is exposure of injuries associated with working in restricted areas (occasionally in cramped and/or uncomfortably hot or cold areas), from falling objects, from working with electrical power tools and wiring or other equipment, from working with normal manual tools, and from falls while working on lock walls, dam service bridge, etc. While possibility of drowning exists as result of falls while working around water, hazard is practically eliminated through observance of safety procedures and use of safety equipment. During maintenance operations, is occasionally exposed to unpleasant fumes, dust, etc.