Power Plant Operator Trainee III

Summary

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. About the Position: As a Power Plant Operator Trainee III, under direct guidance, you will assist in controlling water releases and power production of six mainstem Missouri River hydroelectric power plants, consisting of 36 generating units and 37 high-voltage transmission lines.

Duties

• Complete technical study and hands-on training to learn how to safely run and maintain a hydroelectric power plant and its equipment.
• Receive specific assignments designed to build the skills and knowledge needed to eventually work as a journeyman operator.
• Assist senior operators with opening, closing, and adjusting spillway gates to safely control river water flow and levels.
• Assist senior operators with using control boards and manual switches to start, stop, and adjust power generator units.
• Assist with locking out equipment, pulling electrical breakers, and hanging safety tags so maintenance crews can work safely.
• Inspect the plant and switchyard to check machines, read meters, and watch or listen for any mechanical problems.
• Assist with minor equipment maintenance, including cleaning machinery, restocking supplies, and keeping recording instruments ready for use.

Qualifications

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) Power Plant Operator Trainee III ~ without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform common tasks in an industrial, technical, and/or mechanical environment. I can follow directions in a shop and use trade-related guides such as technical manuals, specifications, blueprints, etc. I 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. Failure to meet at least one of the Screen Out Elements above will result in an ineligible rating. PHYSICAL EFFORT: Work requires extensive walking, standing, and climbing vertical and inclined ladders and stairs; and stooping, bending, kneeling and crawling. Work may be done in awkward and cramped positions which may require the physical endurance to work under poor conditions for prolonged periods of time. Requires lifting and carrying tools, equipment and supplies frequently weighing up to and over 45 pounds. Required to operate large valves, apply servolocks, life deck hatches, and perform other tasks requiring up to 75 pounds of pulling or turning force. There is danger of cuts, bruises and burns from equipment used and possible irritation or injury to eyes and spills from acids and solvents used. Must have good distant vision in each eye and be able to read fine calibrations; glasses permitted. Ability to distinguish basic colors is required. Ability to hear the conversational voice, with or without a hearing aid, is required. An amputation of arm, hand, leg or foot will normally disqualify an applicant for appointment. Any physical condition which would cause the applicant to be a hazard to his/herself or to others is disqualifying. WORKING CONDITIONS: The principal assignment is to the powerhouse; however, the work area may include intake structures and spillway areas. Work is principally indoors in a well heated, lighted and ventilated environment, but occasional outdoor work exposes employee to usual climate extremes. Exposed to equipment and machinery noises, heights, oils, greases, confined areas, dust, dirt, water, heat and cold, odors, fumes and moving and/or energized equipment. May work in proximity to high voltages and currents. Is subject to the discomfort of safety equipment required such as hard-hats and ear plugs. Must wear appropriate safety equipment and protective clothing, and successfully complete and maintain all occupational health requirements, including pulmonary capacity and other routine occupational and pre-employment medical examinations.