Small Craft Operator.

Responsibilities

• Safely conduct survey operations away from supervision with limited ability to check in, in changing weather conditions.
• Operate vehicles such as pick-up trucks and four-wheel drives.
• Operate motorboats up to 26 feet in length on rivers and open waters.
• Steer a vessel to maintain direction and control.
• Conduct fueling operations by checking levels and handling fuel hose and attachments.
• Paint surfaces of floating plant such as hulls, decks, lettering, and other safety-related items.
• Maintain property aboard vessel and keep all quarters clean and orderly.
• Identify defective equipment in need of repair or replacement.
• Monitor lines and repair or renew to maintain safe operation.
• Observe safety procedures for crew and all passengers.
• Safely operate a motor vessel up to 70 feet in length in fair and inclement weather.
• Follow directions while performing and/or assisting others with the repair and overhaul of equipment or machinery.
• Interpret manufacturer instructions for stirring and thinning oil-based paints.
• Follow power tool manuals for items such as scrapers, sanders, or brushes to prepare surfaces for paint.
• Stay abreast of U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) procedures for operating vessels up to 70 feet in length.
• Perform general maintenance repairs to boat and other deck equipment.
• Operate deck equipment such as power winches, electric boat davits, and anchor windlass.
• Perform leadership and maritime activities while completing debris missions.

Requirements

• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must possess, and be able to maintain, a valid 100 TON Master Near Coastal Waters boat operator license with a current Radar observer endorsement issued by the U.S. Coast Guard or a recognized school. Included in this license is the “Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels” licensing, which is required for boats over 26 feet. Required to maintain this license throughout the duration of employment.
• Must possess or obtain and maintain a valid state Driver’s License and be qualified to drive government vehicles IAW Corps of Engineers Standards.
• Requires travel and overnight trips up to 75% of the time or more.
• Must successfully pass a pre-employment physical to ensure ability to perform the physical requirements of this position. Requires flexibility and agility to enter narrow openings to access the engine room.
• Must be able to transfer between shore points and vessels under potentially adverse conditions.
• Required to wear a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) at all times while on open decks.
• Position meets the criteria for random drug and alcohol testing under the Department of Army Drug-Free Workplace Program.
• Required to sign a DA Form 7412, Condition of Employment for Certain Civilian Positions Identified Safety-Sensitive Under the DOT, Federal Highway Administration Rules on Drug and Alcohol Testing.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. in the regular performance of duties.
• Must obtain and maintain a First Aid and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation Certification.
• Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, nights, and uncommon tours of duty for extended long periods of time.
• Must be willing to work in inclement weather such as heat, cold, wind, rain, or snow.

Qualifications

Who May Apply: US Citizens

In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application.

Minimum Qualifications: Ability to do the work of a Small Craft Operator performing tasks such as:

• Working in the maritime industry operating/maintaining survey vessels in support of hydrographic surveying.
• Leading a crew in accomplishing surveying missions.
• Communicating with crew members of many personalities in an enclosed environment on a daily basis.
• Performing basic/complex maintenance tasks and the ability to troubleshoot/diagnose to remedy the situation.
• Using various hand tools.

Selective Placement Factor: Required to possess and maintain a valid 100 Ton Master License with current Radar Observer and Towing Endorsement issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Included in this license is the "Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels" licensing which is required for boats over 26 feet. You will be required to maintain this license throughout the duration of your employment.

Physical Effort: The incumbent occasionally lifts and carries parts and equipment weighing 40-50 pounds. Moderate effort is required during general maintenance work. Coordination of hands, eyes, body, and legs is needed to work safely on wet and moving decks, especially when anchored in exposed locations during storms. Required to enter and exit engine compartment and confined spaces for repair, engine checks, and inspection. May be required to climb up or down to reach the dock when entering or departing the vessel.

Working Conditions: Most work is performed inside, but some work is done outside where there is danger of slipping and falling overboard. Survey work is performed in all types of weather. There is exposure to traffic hazards, especially during foggy weather and at night. When making repairs and performing maintenance, there is exposure to possible injuries due to working around moving machinery and in cramped quarters.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time, or intermittent.