Powerplant Operator
What you'd do
Reclamation is seeking a career professional looking for an opportunity to capitalize on their expertise as a Powerplant Operator. You can make a difference in the West by assisting in meeting increasing water demands while protecting the environment.
Major duties
Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: Operate control boards, exciters, disconnects, power circuit breakers, load and voltage control equipment, and signal systems at all locations. Operate high and low tension disconnect switches and places and removes protective tags/locks in all substations, switchyards, and generating stations. Operate all equipment in the powerhouses, central section, dam, and associated structures as directed by the Control Center Operator including starting, stopping, synchronizing, and condensing generators; transmission line breakers; 120/480/2400VAC station service switchgear and lighting systems; large gates and valves to maintain proper river flow and for watering or unwatering penstocks, scroll cases, and draft tubes; transferring lubricating and transformer oil; draining and filling transformers, generator unit bearings, and governor oil systems. Perform periodic inspections of switchyards and associated equipment including bus structures, wave traps, insulators, motor operated disconnects/circuit interrupters, bushings, power circuit breakers, and air compressors; turbines, generators, and associated equipment such as valves, bearings, exciters, lubricating pumps, and governors; greasing systems; domestic water systems; and air system equipment. Monitor and adjust equipment in a safe, efficient, error free manner as required to meet plant operational needs. Complete operating reports, duty sheets, and assigned preventative maintenance tasks. Assume an active role in the Operations Training Program to ensure Powerplant Operator Apprentices and other personnel receive proper technical training in the control systems and all other plant equipment.
What you need to qualify
All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-08/03/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors: Ability to Do the Work of the Position without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT) Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (Other Than Blueprint Reading) Dexterity and Safety Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation, and Repair, etc. Operation of Job Family Specify Equipment, Machinery, etc. Technical Practices (Theoretical, Precise, Artistic) Use of Measuring Instruments If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. Your resume must support your response to the assessment questionnaire, and if it does not, your application will be marked as not eligible. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors. You must meet at least 2 points on the screen-out element(s) and obtain an average of at least 2 points on all of the job elements to be considered qualified for this position. Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Before you apply
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