Become an Engineering Equipment Operator with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking to combine your technical talents with a mission of conservation? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is currently hiring an Engineering Equipment Operator (WG-10) to support the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Austwell, Texas. This role is essential to maintaining the vital habitat and infrastructure that protects our nation's fish and wildlife.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, your daily tasks will be diverse and challenging. You will spend roughly 95% of your time outdoors. Key responsibilities include:
- Heavy Equipment Operation: Operating excavators, bulldozers, graders, and agricultural tractors to manage habitat.
- Maintenance: Repairing vehicles, boats, and specialized tracked equipment.
- Facility Upkeep: Handling carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and masonry tasks for refuge facilities.
- Safety Leadership: Mentoring volunteers and ensuring all work complies with environmental safety standards.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate logs and electronic records for all maintenance activities.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Licensure: You must hold a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- Citizenship: Proof of U.S. citizenship is required.
- Testing: Candidates must successfully pass a physical examination and pre-employment drug screening.
- Documentation: A maximum 2-page resume is required to be considered.
Salary and Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $33.57 - $39.25 per hour |
| Location | Austwell, Texas |
| Job Grade | WG-10 |
| Travel | Minimal |
Benefits
Employees enjoy standard federal benefits, including a uniform allowance and the opportunity to use government credit cards for official travel and purchasing. Furthermore, your previous experience—whether in the military or the private sector—may count toward your leave accrual rate, potentially increasing your vacation benefits upon hiring.
Application Tips
- Read Everything: Review the USAJobs announcement in its entirety before starting.
- Resume Polish: Keep your resume under two pages and use a font size of at least 10-point. Ensure your experience is clearly tied to the 'job factors' provided in the listing.
- Eligibility: Select all applicable hiring paths to ensure your application is reviewed correctly.
Serving as an Engineering Equipment Operator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is more than just a job; it is a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Texas. If you are reliable, skilled with machinery, and safety-conscious, apply before the November 16, 2026 deadline.
Why This Engineering Equipment Operator Job Matters
Power the conservation mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by operating heavy machinery at the beautiful Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.
Engineering Equipment Operator Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a skilled Engineering Equipment Operator to join the team in Austwell, Texas. This role is pivotal in maintaining the refuge’s infrastructure and habitats, requiring a blend of technical expertise, mechanical maintenance skills, and a commitment to land stewardship. You will operate a wide range of heavy equipment to support conservation projects while working in diverse environmental settings.
Requirements for Engineering Equipment Operator
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Possess and maintain a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
- Maintain a valid state driver's license throughout employment
- Pass a pre-employment and random drug screening
- Complete a 1-year probationary period
- Register for Selective Service (if born after 12-31-59)
- Pass a background investigation
- Maintain physical fitness standards for the duties described
Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Equipment Operator
- Proven experience operating heavy equipment like excavators, bulldozers, and graders
- Demonstrated ability to perform facility maintenance including plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work
- Strong record of safety and adherence to environmental compliance
- Experience in mentoring or training staff and volunteers
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Uniform allowance
- ✓Government credit card access for travel and purchases
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential for leave accrual credit for previous related non-federal service
💡 How to Apply Engineering Equipment Operator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Engineering Equipment Operator Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages (10-point font, 0.5-inch margins).
- Create or sign in to your USAJobs account.
- Complete the required assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including proof of CDL and veteran's preference forms if applicable.
- Submit your application by 11:59 PM (ET) on November 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details how your past experience matches the job factors listed.
- Do not assume the hiring manager knows your duties based on job titles; describe your actual tasks.
- Check that your resume is under the two-page limit, as longer resumes will not be accepted.
- Double-check your application status within your USAJobs portal regularly.
- Do not include personal photographs in your documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for my experience?
No. For this Federal Wage System position, there is no substitution of education for required experience.
What happens if I fail the drug test?
Pre-employment drug testing is mandatory. You will not be appointed to the position if you receive a verified positive result.
Is the work primarily indoors or outdoors?
This position is predominantly outdoors (95%), involving field operations in a variety of weather conditions and terrain.
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The Department of the Interior, through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, works tirelessly to conserve, protect, and enhance wildlife habitats for the benefit of the American people. Employees at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge operate on the front lines of environmental stewardship, managing resources through construction, maintenance, and facility management.