Lock & Dam Operator, WY

Position Overview

Serves as a journeyman lock and dam operator at a Corps of Engineers navigation facility within the Inland Marine Transportation System (IMTS). The operator manages electrically, electronically, or hydraulically controlled lock or lock and dam gates, control valves, and associated equipment to allow passage of private and commercial traffic and to maintain required pool levels.

• Operate lock and dam systems during lockage, including handling lines, controlling gates and valves, communicating with vessel pilots, removing debris, and managing signals to ensure safe vessel passage.
• Assist with maintenance and repair of lock and dam machinery and structures, using various tools and equipment, performing inspections, and supporting crane operations for material handling.
• Perform seasonal facility upkeep and emergency flood‑related tasks; operate vehicles and equipment to maintain site safety and readiness; occasionally supervise temporary workers.

• Minimum experience demonstrating ability to perform simple maintenance or repair tasks with mechanical or electrical equipment; operate simple mechanical equipment such as lawn mowers, hedge clippers, electric drills, power wrenches, and hydraulic lifts.
• Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform all duties without more than normal supervision.
• US citizenship is required.

• IMTS Lock and Dam Operator Training and Certification Program.
• Newly appointed operators must complete certification requirements before promotion to full performance level.
• Certification is voluntary for current operators but is encouraged for advancement; failure to meet certification requirements may result in adverse consequences.
• Certified operators must complete refresher training as required to maintain certification.

• Ability to perform duties without more than normal supervision.
• Use of measuring instruments.
• Interpretation of instructions, specifications, etc.
• Technical practices.
• Knowledge of equipment assembly, installation, and repair.
• Dexterity and safety practices.
• Operation of equipment and machinery.

• One‑year probationary period may be required.
• Appointment subject to background investigation with a non‑sensitive security clearance.
• Work shifts vary by site; operators may be required to alternate working hours on all shifts, including weekends.
• Position requires random drug testing in accordance with the Department of the Army Drug‑Free Federal Workplace Program.
• Mission‑essential status; employees required to report for or remain at work in emergency situations.
• May require maintaining an American Red Cross Standard First Aid card, CPR, and/or AED in good standing, wearing prescribed uniform, and holding a valid state driver’s license.
• Refresher training required to maintain certification.
• Observation of safe working procedures is mandatory; appropriate protective clothing and equipment provided.
• Physical requirements:
  
  standing, stooping, bending, occasional lifting in excess of 50 pounds, working in cramped positions, handling bulky equipment, and continuous moderate to arduous activity.
• Valid state motor vehicle operator’s license required.
• Work in all weather conditions, from sub‑zero to extreme heat.

• Selection may be subject to DoD referral system restrictions.
• This position is exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act.
• Relocation/recruitment incentives may be authorized (up to 25%).
• The position meets the criteria for random drug testing under the Department of the Army Drug‑Free Federal Workplace Program.

The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other non‑merit factor.
To learn more, visit the Office of EEO National Center
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Reasonable accommodation is available to qualified employees with disabilities. Requests are evaluated on a case‑by‑case basis throughout the application, hiring, or employment process.