Launch Your Career: Lock and Dam Operator at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise with the pride of public service? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently hiring a Lock and Dam Operator to maintain the vital maritime infrastructure at the Starved Rock facility in Ottawa, Illinois. This role is essential for ensuring the safe, efficient passage of vessels and the protection of our nation’s waterways.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lock and Dam Operator, you will serve as a key member of a professional crew. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Vessel Management: Coordinating the movement of craft through the lock system, including issuing instructions to operators and ensuring safe navigation.
- Equipment Control: Operating electrical and hydraulic systems to manipulate lock gates and water valves.
- Operational Oversight: Monitoring river gauges, recording statistical data in the Lock Performance Monitoring System (LPMS), and documenting lockage activities.
- Maintenance: Conducting functional checks and minor repairs on machinery to prevent downtime.
- Safety Enforcement: Enforcing safety protocols to protect crew members, property, and the public. You will be responsible for immediate response to accidents and maintaining accurate incident reports.
Requirements
To be successful in this role, applicants must demonstrate the ability to perform high-level mechanical work without constant supervision.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | Must demonstrate ability to perform duties without more than normal supervision |
| Physicality | Capacity for moderate to arduous physical effort, including lifting over 50 lbs |
| Documentation | Must submit a resume of two pages or less |
Candidates must be prepared for a physically demanding work environment, including exposure to varied weather conditions, potential for working in cramped spaces, and the requirement for continuous safety awareness.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage between $30.75 and $35.88. Beyond the base pay, federal employees enjoy an extensive benefits package designed to support long-term stability:
- Healthcare: Multiple options for comprehensive health insurance plans.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Stability: A defined career path within a secure federal agency.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal job requires attention to detail. Follow these steps to maximize your chances:
- Resume Length: Adhere strictly to the two-page limit. Extra length will cause your application to be rejected.
- Be Explicit: Clearly define your experience using plain language. Do not assume the HR reviewer knows what specific acronyms mean in your industry.
- Provide Detail: Ensure every position in your work history includes the employer's name, your job title, start/end dates, and average hours worked per week.
If you have the technical aptitude and a dedication to safety, the position of Lock and Dam Operator with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers offers a unique chance to support critical national infrastructure. Join the team in Ottawa, Illinois, and take the next step in your professional journey today.
Why This Lock And Dam Operator Job Matters
Master the waterways and support national infrastructure as a Lock and Dam Operator with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the historic Starved Rock facility.
Lock And Dam Operator Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Lock and Dam Operator to join the Illinois Waterway Project team in Ottawa, Illinois. This vital role involves controlling lockage operations, managing water levels, ensuring vessel safety, and performing critical maintenance to keep regional transportation arteries functioning smoothly.
Requirements for Lock And Dam Operator
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to perform lock and dam operations without more than normal supervision
- Proficiency in operating electrically or hydraulically controlled gates and valves
- Capability to conduct minor equipment repairs and maintenance
- Compliance with safety regulations, traffic laws, and hazardous commodity policies
- Passing a pre-employment drug test
- Completion of a one-year probationary period
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after Dec 31, 1959)
Preferred Qualifications for Lock And Dam Operator
- Demonstrated expertise in operating heavy machinery or industrial equipment
- Strong technical aptitude for mechanical and hydraulic assembly
- Excellent hand-eye coordination for crane and line-handling operations
- Professional experience in maritime or industrial safety environments
- Ability to interpret complex technical specifications and manuals
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Public service loan forgiveness eligibility
- ✓Stable federal career path with consistent pay schedules
💡 How to Apply Lock And Dam Operator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lock And Dam Operator Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific eligibility criteria for Merit Promotion announcements.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, detailing hours worked and specific duties.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including proof of eligibility/veteran status if applicable.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any resume over two pages will be excluded from consideration.
- Use plain language and avoid internal acronyms to ensure HR can clearly assess your experience.
- Verify that your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job listed.
- Submit your documents well in advance of the deadline to account for the internal virus scan process.
- Double-check your application status in the USAJOBS dashboard after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for this position?
The pay range for this position is $30.75 to $35.88 per hour, depending on experience and locality adjustments.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a formal security clearance is not required; however, the role does require a background check for suitability and fitness.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an on-site operational position at the Starved Rock Lock and Dam in Ottawa, IL, requiring physical presence to manage locks.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's premier engineering organizations. Tasked with solving the nation's toughest engineering challenges, USACE supports economic growth, strengthens national security, and manages critical water resources. When you work with USACE, you become part of a legacy of engineering excellence that builds the future of the United States.