Small Craft Operator XF-5786-11 (47045)

US Army Corps of Engineers; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

US Army Corps of Engineers – Wilmington District is seeking a Small Craft Operator to operate and maintain survey vessels along the Atlantic Coast. You will conduct hydrographic surveys using single beam, side scan, and multibeam systems, and you will transport personnel and perform related support tasks.

The role requires relevant licensure, a valid driver’s license, and readiness for periodic travel and safety responsibilities aboard a survey vessel.

Qualifications

• Ability to operate a small craft and perform vessel maintenance with minimal supervision.
• Must hold a valid USCG Masters license for near coastal or vessel classifications as required.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain 2–3 survey vessels (26–65 ft) in varied conditions.
• Conduct hydrographic surveys using single beam, side scan, and multibeam systems.
• Transport survey personnel and perform vessel safety and navigation tasks.
• Maintain logs and safeguard equipment and property on the vessel.

Skills

USCG Masters license

Driver's license

CPR/BLS certification

Maritime operations

Job description

USACE Organization

South Atlantic Division (SAD) - Wilmington District

Announcement Type

Direct-Hire Authority (DHA)

Position Type

Permanent

Locations (City, State)

Wilmington, NC

Position Overview/Duties

Position Title: Small Craft Operator

Series/Grade: XF-5786-11

Open Period: 19 October - 2 November, 2026

Duty Location(s): Wilmington, NC

Duties & Responsibilities

• Small Craft Operator is in charge of plant with responsibility for the operation and maintenance of 2-3 survey vessels, 26 to 65 feet in length.
• Conduct sophisticated and computerized hydrographic surveys within all types of conditions, especially in shallow draft inlet conditions.
• Pilots and operates survey vessel engaged in transporting survey personnel performing such work as single beam, side scan sonar and multibeam hydrographic surveys.
• Other operations for the vessel include transporting passengers during tours and personnel to replace and repair auto tide gages, towing other craft, debris removal, etc.
• Assumes accountability for the safekeeping and preservation of all property and equipment on the vessel. Maintains operating and machinery log.

Other Conditions And Requirements

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD, Section 9905 to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. Veterans' preference does not apply to this announcement.

WHO MAY APPLY:

US Citizens.

Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element):

Ability to do the work of a Small Craft Operator without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform the common task of operation of an outboard engine boat. I have a good understanding vessel capabilities, auxiliary equipment, anchor, and navigation rules. I work under close supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure all tasks are properly performed. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.

Other Requirements, Conditions Of Employment And Information

• All positions require the applicant to be a citizen of the United States.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, are required to register for Selective Service prior to appointment.
• Direct deposit of pay is required.
• A trial or probationary period may be required.
• Hiring incentives such as a recruitment/relocation bonus, and service credit for leave, may be authorized (subject to available budget).
• Relocation (PCS) expenses may be authorized (subject to available budget) if the selecting official determines the relocation is in the best interests of the government.
• Must possess at a minimum, a valid USCG Masters license for near coastal, steam or motor vessels of 50 gross tons.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
• This position requires the incumbent to obtain and maintain appropriate district permits for operation of vessels of less than 26 feet.
• The incumbent must possess, or obtain within 1 year of appointment, and maintain a valid First Aid and CPR certification, or Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or equivalent nationally recognized accrediting organization.
• Overnight travel required for training, conferences and rotational assignments approximately 40% of the time.
• A pre-appointment Physical exam required and the incumbent will be subject to scheduled medical surveillance. Must wear protective clothing or equipment, as the particular situation requires such as coveralls, rubber boots, gloves, steel-toed shoes, goggles, earmuffs, life jacket or other PFD, etc.
• This job assignment is aboard a survey vessel assigned to work on various inlets and connecting channels along the Atlantic Coast.
• This position meets the criteria for random drug and alcohol testing under the Department of Army Drug-Free Workplace Program as supplemented by USACE ER 690-1-1218. Incumbent is required to sign a DA Form 7412, Condition of Employment for Certain Civilian Positions Identified Safety- Sensitive Under the DOT, Federal Highway Administration Rules on Drug and Alcohol Testing.
• Must be able to lift 50lbs.
• Occasional emergency and weekend work may be required to support mission requirements.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy

The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor

To learn more, please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity (https://www.eeoc.gov/federal-sector/federal-employees-job-applicants).

Qualifications - Candidates will be evaluated in accordance with OPM General Schedule (GS) Qualification Standards or Federal Wage System (FWS) Qualifications and Job Elements

FWS Qualifications: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/#url=Job-Elements

Reasonable Accommodation

Reasonable accommodation is available to qualified employees with disabilities. You can request a reasonable accommodation at any time during the application process, hiring process or while on the job. Requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.