Launch Your Career as a Power Plant Mechanic with the USACE
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is actively seeking a highly skilled Power Plant Mechanic to support the critical operations at the McNary Project in Umatilla, Oregon. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise to national infrastructure while enjoying the professional stability of federal service. If you are a journey-level mechanic with experience in heavy industrial machinery, this role is a perfect match for your skill set.
Job Responsibilities
As a Power Plant Mechanic, you will be responsible for:
- Maintaining and repairing hydroelectric equipment including turbines and generators.
- Performing machine shop work such as milling, boring, and turning parts to exact tolerances.
- Executing various welding and cutting operations to repair structural components.
- Installing and maintaining piping and HVAC systems.
- Diagnosing complex mechanical failures and implementing corrective actions.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Agency | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers |
| Location | Umatilla, Oregon |
| Salary | $69.15 per hour |
| Schedule | Full-Time |
| Clearance | Not Required |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must demonstrate journeyman-level experience. This includes:
- A deep understanding of mechanical maintenance without regular supervision.
- Proficiency in diagnosing and lubricating gear systems and hydraulic equipment.
- Ability to work at heights and in confined, drafty spaces.
- Ability to lift 45+ pounds frequently.
Benefits
Beyond the competitive hourly wage, you will gain access to the comprehensive federal benefits system, which includes health insurance, retirement planning, and a commitment to employee safety and professional development. Residents of Washington state who work at the McNary facility also enjoy significant state income tax exemptions.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly state hours per week and specific mechanical tasks performed.
- Formatting: Use plain language to describe your skills to ensure HR specialists can easily match your qualifications.
This role is an excellent opportunity for an experienced mechanic to take their career to the federal level. By joining the USACE team, you are not just taking a job; you are helping engineer a stronger future for the country.
Why This Power Plant Mechanic Job Matters
Power your career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers—where your mechanical expertise keeps critical infrastructure running for the nation.
Power Plant Mechanic Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a skilled Power Plant Mechanic to join the team at the McNary Project in Umatilla, Oregon. This role focuses on maintaining the mechanical integrity of hydroelectric power generating equipment, including turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems. You will play a vital role in ensuring navigation, fish passage, and power generation capabilities remain operational.
Requirements for Power Plant Mechanic
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Ability to perform journeyman-level mechanical work without more than normal supervision.
- Experience diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining engines, gears, compressors, and hydraulic equipment.
- Practical experience in welding or pipefitting.
- Proficiency in operating various machining tools.
- Must be able to frequently lift and maneuver objects weighing up to 45 pounds.
- Ability to work in confined, cramped, or high-altitude environments.
- Successful completion of safety and occupational health requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Power Plant Mechanic
- Demonstrated experience in hydroelectric facility maintenance.
- Advanced technical skills in specialized machining and layout.
- Ability to interpret complex blueprints and mechanical drawings.
- Experience working with diverse welding types including TIG, MIG, and shielded metal-arc.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive hourly pay of $69.15.
- âś“Federal employment benefits package.
- âś“Stable career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
- âś“Work-life balance in the scenic Umatilla, Oregon region.
- âś“Tax benefits for residents commuting from Washington State.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Power Plant Mechanic Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Power Plant Mechanic Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including performance appraisals if applicable.
- Submit your complete package by the closing date of September 9, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly state hours worked per week for each position.
- Avoid technical jargon or acronyms that may be unfamiliar to HR staff.
- Ensure your resume reflects the specific mechanical tasks listed in the job description.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan before the deadline.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information on documents like marriage certificates or military orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of this role?
The Power Plant Mechanic performs maintenance, repair, and diagnostic tasks on hydroelectric power equipment, including turbines, generators, and pneumatic/hydraulic systems.
Is travel required for this position?
The position is stationary, located at the McNary Project, though local travel may occasionally be required to support other project structures.
Are there tax advantages to this location?
Yes, employees who work at the McNary Dam but reside in the State of Washington are exempt from Oregon state income tax.
Is a security clearance needed?
No, this position is non-sensitive/low risk.
Can I live in Washington?
Yes, and doing so provides specific tax benefits as an employee of this facility.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is tasked with engineering the nation’s future. From water resource management and navigation to supporting our armed forces, USACE is dedicated to excellence and national security. Working at the McNary Project allows you to be part of a facility that manages power generation, fish passage, and vital navigation duties on the Columbia River.