Engineering Technician IV – Range Boat Captain (S) - PRTR

Ranges Operations & Safety

• Operates assigned range control vessel during all scheduled and unscheduled test events across the PRTR danger zones
• Stations vessel at assigned range position prior to commencement of each test evolution
• Enforces restricted waterway boundaries under 33 CFR Part 334; intercepts and redirects civilian, commercial, and recreational watercraft that enter or approach active danger zones
• Displays red range flag and operates vessel siren/PA system to provide warning and instructions to approaching watercraft
• Maintains constant radio communication with the Range Operations Center (ROC) throughout all test events; reports contact violations, safety hazards, and range clearance status in real time
• Confirms and reports range clear status at assigned station prior to authorizing test commencement
• Executes emergency response procedures for man-overboard, vessel distress, and hazardous conditions on the river
• Maintains sound level data from onboard Brüel & Kjær acoustic monitoring equipment; confirms proper equipment function before underway and transmits data to ROC as required

Vessel Operations

• Conducts pre-underway and post-mission inspections of assigned vessel; verifies fuel levels, navigation lights, communication equipment, safety gear (PFDs, flares, fire extinguishers, first aid), and propulsion systems
• Maintains vessel deck log for each underway period, recording departure/return times, crew aboard, operational status, and any incidents or discrepancies
• Directs the activities of assigned Boat Riders (Laborers) during range clearance and test events
• Operates vessel safely in tidal currents, reduced visibility, and adverse weather conditions consistent with NSWCDD range operating procedures
• Transports personnel and test equipment to/from range stations and target areas as directed

Vessel Maintenance

• Performs scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) on assigned vessel in accordance with government-furnished maintenance schedules and manufacturer guidance; tasks include engine oil/filter changes, fuel system checks, bilge pump maintenance, hull inspection, running gear inspection, and electronics checks
• Identifies and reports mechanical, electrical, and structural deficiencies; coordinates with Range and Marine Maintenance sub-task personnel for corrective maintenance
• Maintains maintenance logs and records for assigned vessel; ensures all discrepancies are documented and tracked to resolution
• Ensures vessel and all associated equipment (navigation, safety, communications, acoustic instrumentation) is maintained to mission-ready status at all times

Compliance & Documentation

• Maintains current USCG Merchant Mariner Credential and all required endorsements; immediately reports any change in credential status to supervisor
• Complies with all NSWCDD, NSF Dahlgren, and TRAX safety, environmental, and security policies including range safety officer directives
• Completes all required OPSEC, security, and facility access training as directed
• Supports preparation of boat operations schedules, range clearance logs, and after-action reports as required
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Associate's degree, OR equivalent training/experience with a high school diploma or equivalent is required
• Certifications related to specific areas of T&E equipment and technology (e.g., Certified Test Technician) are desired
• Minimum seven (7) years of progressive experience operating vessels 30 feet or larger on inland or near-coastal restricted/navigable waterways
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in U.S. government, military, or DoD range/test range marine operations OR equivalent experience operating in USCG/Navy-controlled restricted waterway environments
• Demonstrated experience conducting pre-/post-underway inspections and performing basic preventive maintenance on small patrol-class vessels
• Experience directing the activities of subordinate crew members
• Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC): Master of Self-Propelled Vessels, Inland Waters, Up to 100 Gross Tons
• USCG Radar Endorsement, Inland Waters
• Valid U.S. driver's license
• Typical schedule follows NSWCDD range testing calendar; may include early morning departures, extended hours during heavy test periods, and occasional weekend operations
• May be required to respond on short notice for safety emergencies or unscheduled test events
• Position is on-site at NSF Dahlgren, King George, Virginia — no remote or telework option

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Associate's degree or vocational/technical training in marine operations, nautical science, or a related field
• Prior experience operating range control, patrol, or safety vessels at a DoD test range (NSWCDD Dahlgren, Aberdeen Test Center, Eglin Gulf Test and Training Range, Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center, or equivalent)
• Familiarity with 33 CFR Part 334 danger zone and restricted area regulations on the Potomac River
• Experience with onboard acoustic monitoring equipment or other range instrumentation systems
• USCG First Aid / CPR certification or equivalent
• Military service in a Boatswain's Mate (BM), Machinery Repairman (MR), Engineman (EN), or Hull Technician (HT) rating
• Prior service on PRTR or familiarity with NSWCDD range operations procedures

Physical Qualifications

• Outdoor, on-water environment; exposed to sun, wind, rain, cold, and heat throughout the test season
• Work is performed aboard government-furnished vessels operating in active weapons test environments; strict adherence to range safety protocols is mandatory at all times
• Must be capable of working aboard small patrol vessels in open-water conditions, including tidal currents, wind, and adverse weather
• Must demonstrate physical ability to board/disembark vessels using ladders and gangways in varying sea states
• Must not be prone to motion sickness or sea sickness; duties require extended periods underway on the Potomac River
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs of equipment onto/off vessels
• Must be capable of standing for extended periods during underway operations
• Adequate near and distance vision (corrected acceptable) for safe navigation and lookout duties
• Must be able to communicate clearly by radio in a noisy marine environment

Terms of Employment & Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
• Must possess a valid driver's license, without special restrictions
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening
• Must be able to successfully complete a background check
• Must have and be able to maintain a Secret Clearance