Lock and Dam Operator, WY-5426-5/7/8 (33713)

Rock Island District's Operations Division is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation and maintenance of a 9-foot navigation channel on 314 miles of the Upper Mississippi River and 268 miles of the Illinois Waterway, as well as the operation of 18 lock and dam sites. Positions are available at Lock and Dam 16 in Illinois City, IL and Lock and Dam 21 in Quincy, IL.

Responsibilities

• Work under the direction of a head lock and dam operator and other senior lock staff.
• Operate lock and dam gates, control valves, and other associated equipment required for passage of private and commercial traffic through the lock structure and/or maintenance of required pool levels.
• Perform installation repair and maintenance tasks.
• Gather and record essential data from boat pilots regarding cargo and travel details.
• Assist in the installation, repair, and maintenance of lock machinery and equipment, perform operational checks to prevent equipment malfunctions, and utilize various hand and power tools.
• Demonstrate and enforce safety regulations and methods to avoid hazards to employees, property, or vessels.

Requirements

• Ability to perform common lock and dam operations tasks with minimal supervision, including:
  • Operating lock and dam equipment where gates/valves are electrically or hydraulically controlled.
  • Making minor repairs to lock and dam equipment.
  • Applying locking procedures, policies, and laws regarding traffic right-of-way, sequence of operation, and safe passage of hazardous commodities and damaged crafts.
  • Complying with governing safety practices and procedures.
• U.S. citizenship.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
• Subject to pre-employment and random drug screening, including testing based on reasonable suspicion or involvement in an on-duty accident.
• Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and annual examinations thereafter.
• Must possess or obtain and maintain a valid state Driver’s License.
• Shift work required, including evenings, weekends, holidays, or special situations.
• Mission Essential position: required to report for or remain at work during emergencies, regardless of dismissal or closure announcements.
• May be required to maintain American Red Cross Standard First Aid, CPR, and/or AED certification.
• Must wear a uniform and/or protective clothing.

Qualifications

To qualify for the WY-07 level, candidates must have completed Parts 1 and 2 of Inland Marine Transportation System (IMTS) training.

To qualify for the WY-08 level, candidates must be IMTS Certified.

Benefits

• Direct deposit of pay required.
• Trial or probationary period may be required.
• Hiring incentives such as recruitment/relocation bonus, service credit for leave, and student loan repayment may be authorized (subject to available budget).