Launch Your Career as an Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic with WAPA
Are you looking to turn your technical expertise into a high-impact federal career? The Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) is currently seeking a skilled Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic (Meter & Relay) Craftsman in Training. This position is a cornerstone of the agency’s effort to maintain the critical energy infrastructure that powers the Western United States.
About the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA)
As a vital component of the Department of Energy, WAPA is responsible for marketing and transmitting reliable, cost-based federal hydroelectric power. Operating across 15 states, WAPA maintains over 17,000 miles of transmission lines. Our mission is to keep the lights on for over 40 million people, and we are constantly innovating to meet the challenges of the future through our 'Power Forward 2030' strategy.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will perform high-level technical work within power system substations. Key responsibilities include:
- Equipment Maintenance: Repair, install, and test substation control and monitoring equipment.
- Metering Expertise: Manage polyphase revenue metering equipment, including microprocessor-based meters and instrument transformers.
- Relay Systems: Maintain and program protective relay equipment, including complex impedance and differential relays.
- Technical Programming: Develop software test routines and verify relay settings to ensure grid stability.
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work independently. Your resume must clearly outline your experience with protective relay equipment and/or revenue metering. Please note the following key requirements:
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Strict two-page resume limit.
- Requirement for regular drug and alcohol testing.
- Ability to work in various environmental conditions, including extreme heat or cold.
Salary Overview
Compensation for this position varies by duty location, reflecting regional cost-of-living standards.
| Region | Hourly Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Arizona & Nevada | $64.74 - $71.93 |
| Colorado | $63.06 - $70.07 |
| California | $81.43 - $90.48 |
| South Dakota | $59.43 - $66.04 |
Benefits
Working for the Department of Energy provides a stable and rewarding career path. Employees benefit from:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Federal pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
- Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual.
- Training and professional development opportunities.
Application Tips
To succeed in the federal application process, ensure your resume highlights the quality of your experience rather than just the duration. Focus on specific projects where you installed or repaired protective relay equipment. Remember to submit all required documentation early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Joining WAPA means more than just having a job; it means contributing to a vital national mission. If you possess the technical skill and the desire to work in a mission-critical environment, apply today to help us power the future.
Why This Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic (Meter & Relay) Craftsman In Training Job Matters
Power your career with the Western Area Power Administration and become a vital link in the nation's energy grid infrastructure.
Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic (Meter & Relay) Craftsman In Training Job Overview
The Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) is hiring an Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic (Meter & Relay) Craftsman in Training to support our mission of delivering reliable hydroelectric power across the Western United States. This role focuses on the maintenance, installation, and programming of critical power system substation equipment. Candidates will gain hands-on experience in protective relay systems and revenue metering, ensuring energy stability for millions of customers.
Requirements for Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic (Meter & Relay) Craftsman In Training
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be registered for Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Must be able to pass a background investigation for Federal employment.
- Ability to perform Meter and Relay Craftsman duties independently without excessive supervision.
- Must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Arc Rated clothing as required.
- Must submit a resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Must undergo pre-appointment and annual physical examinations.
- Willingness to travel, including potential use of fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, or snow vehicles.
Preferred Qualifications for Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic (Meter & Relay) Craftsman In Training
- Prior experience maintaining or installing protective relay equipment.
- Knowledge of polyphase revenue metering systems.
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex electronic and microprocessor-based power equipment.
- Proficiency in developing software test routines for protective relays.
- Experience with HMI and communication processors in utility settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and pay schedule
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Robust Federal retirement plan
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Career development and professional training opportunities
- ✓Potential recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Service credit for job-related non-federal experience
💡 How to Apply Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic (Meter & Relay) Craftsman In Training Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic (Meter & Relay) Craftsman In Training Job
- Log into your login.gov account via USAJOBS.
- Submit a two-page resume detailing relevant experience, dates, and duties.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Attach all required documentation, including veterans' preference forms if applicable.
- Submit the application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for application status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; additional pages will not be reviewed.
- Clearly document your experience with protective relay equipment and power metering.
- Ensure your resume addresses the specific 'screen-out' element mentioned in the job post.
- Take screenshots if you encounter technical errors during the application process.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents are attached before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, for this specific position, education cannot be substituted for the required technical experience.
What happens if I submit more than two pages for my resume?
Only the first two pages of your resume will be reviewed to determine your eligibility and qualifications.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the role requires frequent travel, sometimes to remote or rugged areas, and may involve non-standard transportation methods like helicopters or snow cats.