Boiler Plant Operator operate and maintain steam boilers and associated equipment. There is a Utility System Specialist training program designed to prepare participants for a journeyman-level position at the end of the two-year training program. Entry level Helper position (WG-5402-05), the intermediate Worker level (WG-5402-08), and the full grade relate to position knowledge, level of operating skills, degree of supervision required, and the level of independence of the trainee
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 09/30/2025. EXPERIENCE: A specific length of training and experience is not required, but you must show evidence of training or experience of sufficient scope and quality of your ability to do the work of this position. Evidence which demonstrates you possess the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position must be supported by detailed descriptions of such on your resume. Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards. SCREEN-OUT ELEMENT: Ability to perform the work of the position without more than normal supervision: Do you have the ability to perform the work of the position without more than normal supervision? From the descriptions listed below, select the appropriate response that best describes your past work or training performance (must be reflected in your resume). Dexterity and Safety Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair Interpret Instructions, Specifications (other than blueprint reading) Measuring Instruments Operation of Equipment/Machinery Technical Practices Without more than normal supervision 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; religions; 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. Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment. Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Works from ladders, scaffolding, platforms, and elevated catwalks. Work may be at or above ground levels. Frequently works in confined areas in and around boilers and support equipment. Requires moderate to strenuous effort and long periods of walking, standing, climbing, bending, reaching, stooping, and crouching, as the work site dictates. Frequently lifts and carries boiler parts and chemical supplies up to 50 pounds unassisted, and over 50 pounds with assistance. Submits to an annual physical examination as per Veterans Affairs protocol. Mainly works indoors but occasionally outside for short periods of time. Subject to high temperatures, constant noise, rotation machinery, soot, dirt, grease, chemicals, oil and fumes. Subject to cuts and abrasions from the use of tools and equipment, and burns from acids, caustics, hot water, steam and contact with boilers.
Maintains, repairs and makes adjustment to the automatic chemical feed system Operates, maintains and repairs oil pumps, including filters, pre-heaters and metering devices Inspects, observes, troubleshoots removes, checks for wear, clean, replace, repair, adjust, test and maintain complicated boiler plant systems and equipment to critical and rigid specifications and tolerances. Maintains a concise and accurate narrative log on plant conditions and communicating plant status to supervisor, mechanics, and next shift operator. Applies a comprehensive knowledge of the principles and theories pertaining to combustion, heat transfer and all operational phases of boiler plant operations. Applies a thorough knowledge and understanding of standard practices and applicable codes. Maintains constant observation of low meters and charts to determine how much steam is being produced Uses measuring instruments such as gauges, meters, recorders and computer generated data to determine operation status and make necessary adjustments. Determines proper amount of chemicals to be added to the boiler and amount of time needed to blow down excess solids. Maintains steam pressure when fuel change overs occur due to drops in natural gas pressure from cold weather Adheres to repair manuals to properly complete required repairs Interprets diagrams, drawings, and operational manuals. Performs routine house-keeping duties maintaining a safe, clean and orderly work environment. Uses and assures proper fit of required safety equipment and clothing Alerts to potential hazards and takes precautions to protect self and others. Makes adjustments to operating systems, equipment and controls determining the need for shutting down or firing up additional boilers. Operates all boiler plant and auxiliary equipment to meet changing demands. Operates three 250-HP fire tube four pass high-pressure boilers. Promotion Potential: The selectee may be promoted to the full performance level without further competition when all regulatory, qualification, and performance requirements are met. Selection at a lower grade level does not guarantee promotion to the full performance level. Work Schedule: Rotating shifts, Varies, 7:30am-4:00pm or 8:00am-4:30pm or 9:00am-5:00pm, 8 hour shifts 5 days a week; subject to change based on the needs of the facility Position Description Title/PD#: Boiler Plant Operator Helper/PD598-04411A Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not Approved Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized