Become a Power Plant Senior Controller with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you a skilled electrical professional looking to make a tangible impact on national infrastructure? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently hiring a Power Plant Senior Controller in Selma, Alabama. This position is a rare opportunity to manage complex hydroelectric systems and ensure the stability of the power grid.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Controller, your duties will be diverse and challenging. You will:
- Coordinate generation and transmission line outages.
- Issue clearances for maintenance personnel under hazardous energy protocols.
- Monitor reservoir regulation and equipment health.
- Operate systems for up to thirteen hydroelectric plants.
- Maintain precise records and logs for dispatch and hydrology reporting.
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate strong technical proficiency and the ability to operate power systems without supervision. Physical requirements include the ability to lift up to 45 pounds and maintain agility to work across plant floors and switchyards.
Quick Qualification Comparison
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | Proven expertise in power operations |
| Probation | 1-Year requirement |
| Drug Testing | Mandatory pre-employment screen |
Salary Overview
This role offers a competitive compensation of $66.34 per hour, inclusive of applicable locality pay.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including retirement planning, health coverage, and potential support for relocation expenses under the Permanent Change of Station (PCS) program.
Application Tips
- Length Matters: Strictly keep your resume to two pages.
- Clarity: Use plain language and avoid jargon.
- Completeness: Ensure every field in the USAJOBS questionnaire is accurate.
If you have the technical skills and the desire to serve, we encourage you to apply. This is your chance to join a mission-driven organization in the heart of Alabama.
Why This Power Plant Senior Controller Job Matters
Take control of a critical energy infrastructure network in Selma, Alabama, with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Power Plant Senior Controller Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a detail-oriented and decisive Power Plant Senior Controller to manage complex hydroelectric operations. In this role, you will oversee a diverse system of up to thirteen local and remote hydroelectric generating plants, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and reliability during your shift. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to national infrastructure while working within a highly collaborative and mission-driven environment in Selma, Alabama.
Requirements for Power Plant Senior Controller
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must possess the ability to perform power plant operations without more than normal supervision.
- Must be able to pass a drug test.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Must maintain normal speech, hearing, and color vision to interface with plant equipment and alarms.
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks including climbing stairs and lifting up to 45 pounds.
- Resume must be two pages or less and detail relevant experience, including hours worked per week.
Preferred Qualifications for Power Plant Senior Controller
- Experience in issuing safe clearances for hydroelectric equipment.
- Proven track record in flood control facility operation.
- Background in interpreting complex circuit diagrams and electrical schematics.
- Previous experience coordinating with dispatch offices and utility partners.
- Capacity for rapid mental and muscular coordination during emergency power operations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and vacation time.
- ✓Potential for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) authorization.
- ✓Collaborative and inclusive team environment.
💡 How to Apply Power Plant Senior Controller Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Power Plant Senior Controller Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific eligibility requirements and documentation checklist.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, ensuring it covers specific start/end dates and hours worked.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including any optional performance appraisals.
- Verify that the application package is complete and submit before the midnight EST deadline on September 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be concise: Your resume must strictly adhere to the two-page limit or it will be disqualified.
- Avoid acronyms: Use plain, descriptive language to ensure the hiring team fully understands your experience.
- Double-check documentation: Ensure all required eligibility documents are attached; do not rely on previous uploads without re-selecting them.
- Monitor status: Use the USAJOBS dashboard to track your application status after submission.
- Mind the timing: Allow enough time for document virus scanning prior to the submission deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of a Power Plant Senior Controller?
You will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of up to thirteen hydroelectric power plants, interpreting load requests, managing clearances, and responding to emergency conditions.
Is a security clearance required for this position?
No, this position is classified as Non-sensitive (NS) and does not require a security clearance, though it does require a drug test.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. Please ensure your submission is compliant with the length requirement.
What is the work environment like?
*A: Most work is performed in a control room, with occasional field duties in power plant switchyards.*
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: Yes, payment of PCS costs may be authorized based on regulatory provisions.*
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the premier public engineering agencies globally. Recognized as a top-tier government employer, the USACE offers a collaborative, inclusive environment where technical expertise and innovation are rewarded. By joining our team, you contribute to vital solutions that impact national security and the economy.