Power Plant Operator Trainee​/Controller​/Shift Operator, WB

USACE Organization

Great Lakes and Ohio River Division (LRD) - Detroit District

TARP - Direct-Hire Authority (DHA)

Permanent

Sault Sainte Marie, MI

As a Power Plant Operator Trainee I, II, III, IV, and Controller, the incumbent serves in a formal training program in power plant operation defined in ER & EP 1130-2-510. The assignments, on‑job training, and required coursework are designed to qualify the employee for the next higher grade in the trainee program, from Trainee I, through II, III, IV, and Controller, to full performance as Power Plant Shift Operator.

Incumbent must obtain full performance in no more than five years and may request a reduction in training duration.

• Operation:
  Without direct supervision, operates, installs, modifies, calibrates, repairs, services, performs diagnostic evaluation, troubleshoots and performs periodic and unscheduled maintenance on electrical, electronic, and mechanical equipment common to hydroelectric power producing stations, at the operator level. Duties include assuming local control of stopping, starting, synchronizing, adjusting load and voltage, etc., for remotely operated generator units and auxiliary equipment for an entire shift.
  
  Makes regular and specific inspections of project power plant areas and equipment, observing, checking, and reporting required operational data and information to project databases and records. Equipment or systems for which services are provided may include, but are not limited to: main generators including static exciters, governor control systems, annunciation systems, voltage regulators, excitation control systems, current and potential transformers, high voltage circuit breakers, recording and indicating meters, communication and networking equipment, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system.
  
  Operates, installs, modifies, troubleshoots, and repairs equipment and systems ancillary to the power project such as heat/vent systems, air conditioning, lighting, security systems, station service, and other electrical systems. Performs rigging primarily for simple lifts in accordance with established rigging practice. Coordinates power plant operations with local power utility company dispatcher and remote operator and monitoring facilities as required. During interruption or breakdown of remote hydropower operations, incumbent is required to temporarily serve on a specified rotating shift operation as a fully qualified Power Plant Shift Operator.
  
  Participates in a power plant call‑back emergency service program by being available during designated periods of time to answer urgent trouble calls on nights, weekends, and holidays, working to restore normal operation with a minimum of delay. Calls upon Power Plant Superintendent or branch chief when serious breakdowns occur, and coordinates immediate assistance during emergent situations. Prepares, issues, and accepts release of safe clearance and caution orders, places clearance tags, and operates electrical and mechanical equipment at the Hydro Plant in accordance with project "safe‑clearance procedures.
  
  Maintains and supports strict adherence to EM‑385‑1‑1.
• Maintenance:
  As an electrician, mechanic, or electronics mechanic worker, performs a variety of duties involved in the installation, repair and maintenance of equipment feeding project site assets and the local utility grid. Operates and performs maintenance and inspections on hoisting equipment (operation of live boom and hoisting equipment excluded) such as man lifts, and overhead cranes when so assigned. Performs work in accordance with current work practices as established and modified and assumes responsibilities for completion of work tasks in a manner which will insure safety of self, others, and equipment.
  
  Participates in job activity hazard analyses, requests safe clearances, attends and participates in regularly scheduled safety meetings.

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain…