Engineering Technician (Utility Instrumentation

Utility Instrumentation Technician

The incumbent serves as a Utility Instrumentation Technician and is responsible for oversight, management and monitoring the installation, operation, maintenance, calibration, testing, troubleshooting, repair, and performance verification of flow measurement systems and associated instrumentation supporting the Capitol Power Plant Utility Distribution Systems (UDS). The incumbent supports accurate monitoring of steam, condensate return, chilled water, domestic water, and other utility systems serving facilities throughout the Capitol campus.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a Confined Space Certification to inspect underground utility tunnels.

This position requires a valid D.C. or State motor vehicle operator's license.

This position may be filled at the GS-10, GS-11 or GS-12. If starting at the lower levels, developmental assignments will be given with the goal of attaining the full performance level. Promotions can be attained without further competition up to the GS-12. Duties quoted below are for the GS-12 level.

Serves as the Utility Distribution Branch technical specialist for flow metering systems, instrumentation, and associated monitoring equipment.

Oversees and manages installation, commissioning, configuration, calibration, and maintaining a variety of flow measurement technologies including magnetic, ultrasonic, differential pressure, insertion, and mechanical flow meters.

Performs routine inspections, operational testing, calibration verification, and preventive maintenance of flow meters and associated instrumentation.

Diagnoses meter inaccuracies, communication failures, instrumentation problems, and system performance issues. Performs corrective maintenance and coordinates repairs with contractors and equipment manufacturers as necessary.

Conducts field investigations to verify meter accuracy, identify utility losses, detect abnormal flow conditions, and support operational troubleshooting.

Maintains accurate calibration records, maintenance logs, testing reports, and equipment documentation using Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) and other data management tools.

Reviews manufacturer recommendations, industry standards, and operational requirements to develop and update maintenance procedures and testing protocols.

Supports integration and operation of flow meters with SCADA systems, building automation systems, data loggers, and other monitoring platforms.

Collects, validates, analyzes, and reports utility flow data used for operational decision-making, energy management, asset management, and system performance evaluations.

Assists with development and maintenance of utility metering databases, equipment inventories, and historical performance records.

Verifies data integrity and coordinates corrective actions when communication, reporting, or instrumentation issues are identified.

Coordinates and evaluates development of performance metrics and reports related to utility consumption, system efficiency, and infrastructure condition assessments.

Provides technical support for utility metering improvement projects, flow meter replacements, new installations, and system upgrades.

Assists with project planning, field investigations, equipment selection, testing requirements, and commissioning activities.

Reviews technical drawings, equipment specifications, wiring diagrams, and manufacturer documentation related to metering and instrumentation systems.

Coordinates with engineers, project managers, contractors, and utility personnel during design, installation, testing, and startup activities.

Participates in field inspections to verify contractor performance, installation quality, and compliance with project requirements.

Provides guidance, technical advice and consultation on program and project administration. Contributes to the resolution of technical difficulties that are amenable to changes in approach, criteria or requirements. Conducts studies to develop criteria for situations encountered in field inspections.

Shall acquire the required training to serve as the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) for UDS Instrumentations (including flow meters) operations and maintenance contract.

Utilizes professional expertise to develop and review: (1) technical specifications; (2) construction documents; (3) internal government cost estimates; (4) construction cost estimates; (5) statements of work; and (6) work plans for construction projects and professional design services. Develops and maintains progress schedules and reports. Manages critical path activities recommending courses of action for problem resolution.