Boiler Plant Operator.

About the Role

This is an "Emergency-Essential" position requiring you to continue working during crises, wartime, severe weather, or other emergencies to support critical operations. The role involves shift work, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special situations, with shifts rotated on a regular schedule.

Responsibilities

• Execute decisions when the supervisor is not on duty and serve as the operator in charge of the plant.
• Perform boiler plant equipment mechanic duties.
• Operate the large central boiler plant for the organization.
• Receive after-hours emergency trouble calls related to various trades and crafts and take appropriate action.
• Determine when adjustments to complex controls or auxiliary equipment are necessary.
• Notify the supervisor in the event of a serious equipment malfunction.
• Monitor control systems, interpret codes, and determine the correct course of action.
• Perform water treatment, fuel system management, steam generation, and pollution control operations.

Requirements

• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, including a background investigation.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state Driver’s License in one of the 50 U.S. states or possessions.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. regularly and occasionally more with assistance.
• Must complete a pre-employment physical examination and annual examinations thereafter.
• Must use personal protective equipment (PPE) provided by the employer as required.
• Must be willing to work in confined spaces, at heights, and in high-temperature environments.
• Must be available to work during emergencies, severe weather, or other critical situations.
• Must serve a one-year probationary period unless previously met under 5 CFR Part 11.

Qualifications

• Must possess a current Grade 1 Stationary Engineers License issued by the State of Maryland (must submit a copy with application).
• Ability to perform common Boiler Plant Operator tasks without more than normal supervision.
• Experience in operating boiler plant processes, including water treatment, fuel systems, steam generation, and pollution control.
• Ability to respond to emergency calls and execute appropriate actions.
• Experience interpreting control system codes to determine the correct course of action.
• Experience refers to paid and unpaid work, including volunteer experience (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps).

Physical Effort and Working Conditions

This role requires moderate to strenuous physical effort, including:

• Frequent walking, standing, climbing, bending, and crouching.
• Working in confined areas around boilers and auxiliary equipment.
• Lifting and carrying items up to 50 lbs. unassisted and occasionally over 50 lbs. with assistance.
• Working in high-temperature environments near boilers and exposure to hazards such as toxic fumes, high noise levels, and potential boiler explosions.
• Use of protective equipment (e.g., safety shoes, gloves, respirators, ear protection) to minimize risks.
• Occasional work outdoors in prevailing weather conditions.
• Potential exposure to scalding, minor cuts, and bruises.

Benefits

As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement plans and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) options.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
• Potential eligibility for recruitment incentives, relocation incentives, or student loan repayment (if applicable).
• Credit for prior non-federal work experience and certain military service for determining annual leave accrual rate.
• Direct Deposit of pay is required.