Lock and Dam Operator

Duties

• Exercise authority over the lock by issuing instructions to craft operators.
• Lead a two‑man crew responsible for making lockages, direct lower graded employees in the operation of lock and dam equipment, and explain work assignments, new procedures, and safe operation methods to other lockmen.
• Conduct a thorough shift turnover with the oncoming shift, and lock vessels through a lock and dam site while performing overall project security.
• Perform and/or direct repair of equipment, maintain equipment at the Lock and Dam Facility, and conduct operational or functional checks on machinery to avoid breakdowns.
• Maintain lock and dam features by following written documentation or oral instructions.
• Operate tow haulage unit to move barges in and out of the lock chamber; control valves for emptying and filling operations; and control raising or lowering of dam gates in accordance with specific instructions or own judgment.
• Respond to accidents, assist and secure the situation, perform proper notifications, and observe weather (and ice) conditions and conditions of craft desiring entry.
• Enforce safety regulations to avoid hazards to personnel, property, or vessels, and complete accident and incident reports within established time frames.
• Instruct others on safe lock and dam operating procedures, ensure proper use of personal protective equipment, and recognize safety hazards in the working environment.
• Read, monitor, and record river gauge readings and determine that water level in the lock chamber is proper for gate operation.
• Obtain and/or direct others to obtain and record required statistical data for each lockage and enter it into the Lock Performance Monitoring System (LPMS).

• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must comply with Drug Abuse Testing Program requirements; this is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) subject to applicant testing and random drug testing.
• Medical examination is required; satisfactory completion is required before assignment.
• Position is Mission Essential and is not subject to administrative dismissal in emergencies based on inclement weather conditions or other emergency situations.
• May be required to have an American Red Cross Standard First Aid card, CPR, and/or AED in good standing and may be required to complete refresher training to maintain certification.
• Work is normally performed on a rotating shift basis which includes weekend and holidays.
• Position requires employee to wear a uniform and/or protective clothing.
• Must have a valid state driver’s license based on job‑related, site‑specific requirements.

• Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision (Screen‑out Element).
• Ability to interpret instructions, specifications, etc.
• Dexterity and safety awareness.
• Knowledge of equipment assembly, installation, repair, and related practices.
• Operation of equipment and machinery.
• Technical practices (theoretical, precise, artistic).< /li>
• Use of measuring instruments.
• Physical effort: eye‑hand coordination for operating controls and handling lines while observing traffic and personnel; lifting, stooping, bending, occasional lifting in excess of 50 lb, stretching, and work in cramped positions and spaces; continuous moderate to arduous effort required.
• Working conditions:
  
  majority of work performed outside, exposed to extremes of temperature and weather; possible exposure to injuries from restricted areas, cramped or hot/cold spaces, falling objects, electrical power tools, and work on lock walls, dam service bridge; possibility of drowning if falls occur around water; occasional exposure to unpleasant fumes, dust, etc.

• Current Civilian Employees of the Command.
• Domestic Defense Industrial Base/Major Range and Test Facilities Base Civilian Personnel Workforce.
• Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan.
• Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act.
• Military Spouses, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13473.
• Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible.
• Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible.
• Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement.
• Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible.
• Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) of 1998.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) and other organizations; all qualifying experience will receive credit, including volunteer experience. There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, applicants must demonstrate, through application materials, sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform this position without more than normal supervision.