Maintenance Worker Career: Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you skilled in trades, mechanical maintenance, or facility upkeep? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a dedicated Maintenance Worker to support the vital operations at the Gathright Dam in Covington, Virginia. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work in a dynamic, outdoor environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Maintenance Worker, you will serve as a key member of the Water Resources Division. Your core duties will include:
- Performing routine maintenance on the Gathright Dam and its intake structures.
- Managing grounds upkeep, including mowing and landscaping.
- Conducting repairs for plumbing, electrical, and carpentry needs.
- Operating specialized machinery such as forklifts, skid steers, and lawn tractors.
- Navigating and maintaining motorboats for water-based inspections.
- Monitoring and executing flood control releases.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and demonstrate the ability to perform maintenance work without constant supervision. You will be evaluated on your ability to use tools, interpret technical instructions, and maintain heavy equipment.
Comparison of WG-5 and WG-7 Responsibilities
| Feature | WG-5 Level | WG-7 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Scope | General facility upkeep | Complex dam and intake structures |
| Supervision | Standard supervision | Independent operation |
| Equipment | Basic vehicles | Advanced vessels and machinery |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $20.67 to $26.86. Beyond pay, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including health insurance, federal retirement programs, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. Excess pages lead to automatic disqualification.
- Be Specific: Detail your past experience with dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Use Plain Language: Avoid complex acronyms that might confuse a recruiter.
- Verify Documents: Ensure all files are uploaded and scanned properly before the deadline.
This role at the Gathright Dam is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to build a stable, rewarding career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. If you are ready to apply your technical skills to serve the nation, submit your application package today.
Why This Maintenance Worker Job Matters
Join the Gathright Dam team and help safeguard critical infrastructure while working in the heart of Virginia’s natural landscape.
Maintenance Worker Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a diligent and skilled Maintenance Worker to join the Water Resources Division at the Gathright Dam Project Office in Covington, Virginia. This role is essential to the day-to-day operations and upkeep of the facility, encompassing everything from grounds maintenance and carpentry to the operation of heavy equipment and watercraft. As a developmental position, this role offers the opportunity to be hired at either the WG-5 or WG-7 level, providing a clear path for professional growth within a highly respected federal agency.
Requirements for Maintenance Worker
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Ability to perform maintenance duties without more than normal supervision.
- Experience in operating and maintaining project buildings, recreational facilities, and heavy equipment (skid steers, tractors, forklifts).
- Experience operating and maintaining motorboats and other vessels.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Ability to perform heavy lifting and work in adverse weather conditions.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period is required upon selection.
Preferred Qualifications for Maintenance Worker
- Proven experience in plumbing, painting, and carpentry trades.
- Technical proficiency in reading blueprints and technical specifications.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain flood control dam infrastructure.
- Strong mechanical aptitude for the repair and maintenance of diverse industrial equipment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly federal pay.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and promotion to WG-7.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP).
- ✓Generous paid annual and sick leave.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Maintenance Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Maintenance Worker Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Ensure your resume details hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the official application link.
- Upload all required supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, military documents).
- Submit your application before the closing date of November 23, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly demonstrate your experience in maintenance work, specifically referencing your ability to work without constant supervision.
- Avoid using jargon or internal acronyms that a human resources specialist may not recognize.
- Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit, as longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
- Ensure all uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan before the submission deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full performance level of this position?
The full performance level for this maintenance role is WG-7.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this position is not eligible for telework or remote work as it requires on-site manual labor and facility maintenance.
What is the closing date for this application?
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on November 23, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required for this specific role.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's most prominent public engineering and construction management agencies. Consistently ranked as a top employer within the federal government, the USACE offers a collaborative culture that values diversity and technical expertise. By joining our team, you contribute to projects that protect national security, support the economy, and preserve the environment.