Engineering Technician IV - Range Boat Captain; S - PRTR

Engineering Technician IV – Range Boat Captain (S) – PRTR

Location:

Dahlgren Navy Base, VA
Employment:
Full Time

• Operate assigned range control vessel during scheduled and unscheduled test events across the PRTR danger zones.
• Station vessel at assigned range position before each test evolution, ensuring compliance with 33 CFR Part 334.
• Enforce waterway restrictions, intercept and redirect civilian, commercial, and recreational watercraft entering active danger zones.
• Display red range flag and operate vessel siren/PA system to provide warnings to approaching watercraft.
• Maintain constant radio communication with the Range Operations Center (ROC); report violations, hazards, and clearance status in real time.
• Confirm and report range clearance status prior to authorizing test commencement.
• Execute emergency response procedures for man‑overboard, vessel distress, and hazardous conditions.
• Monitor and record sound level data from onboard acoustic monitoring equipment; transmit data to ROC as required.
• Conduct pre‑underway and post‑mission inspections of vessel systems and safety equipment.
• Maintain vessel deck log, recording operational status, crew aboard, and any incidents.
• Direct activities of assigned boat riders (laborers) during range clearance and test events.
• Operate vessel safely in tidal currents, reduced visibility, and adverse weather conditions.
• Transport personnel and test equipment to and from range stations and target areas as directed.
• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on vessel and associated equipment; report deficiencies and coordinate maintenance.
• Maintain current USCG Merchant Mariner Credential and required endorsements; report any changes immediately.
• Comply with all NSWCDD, NSF Dahlgren, and TRAX safety, environmental, and security policies.
• Complete required OPSEC, security, and facility access training.
• Support preparation of boat operations schedules, range clearance logs, and after‑action reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Associate’s degree, OR equivalent training/experience with a high school diploma.
• Certifications related to T&E equipment or technology (e.g., Certified Test Technician) desired.
• Minimum seven (7) years progressive experience operating vessels 30 feet or larger on inland or near‑coastal restricted waterways.
• Minimum three (3) years experience in U.S. government, military, or DoD range/test range marine operations or equivalent experience in USCG/Navy‑controlled waterway environments.
• Demonstrated experience conducting pre‑/post‑underway inspections and performing basic preventive maintenance on small patrol‑class vessels.
• Experience directing activities of subordinate crew members.
• Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC):
  Master of Self‑Propelled Vessels, Inland Waters, Up to 100 Gross Tons.
• USCG Radar Endorsement, Inland Waters.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license.
• Availability to work early mornings, extended hours, weekends, and on short notice for emergency events.
• Position is on‑site at NSF Dahlgren; no remote or telework option.

• Associate’s degree or vocational/technical training in marine operations, nautical science, or related field.
• Prior experience operating range control or safety vessels at a DoD test range.
• Familiarity with 33 CFR Part 334 danger zone and restricted area regulations on the Potomac River.
• Experience with onboard acoustic monitoring equipment or other range instrumentation systems.
• USCG First Aid / CPR certification or equivalent.
• Military service in Boatswain’s Mate, Machinery Repairman, Engineman, or Hull Technician rating.
• Prior service on PRTR or familiarity with NSWCDD range operations procedures.

• Work outdoors on‑water; exposure to sun, wind, rain, cold, and heat.
• Must be able to work aboard small patrol vessels in open‑water conditions, including tidal currents and adverse weather.
• Must be able to board/disembark vessels using ladders and gangways; motion sickness intolerance unacceptable.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs of equipment onto/off vessels.
• Must be capable of standing for extended periods during underway operations.
• Must have…