About this role
Job SummaryThis position is an Engineering Equipment Operator, WG-5716-10, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, stationed at the Aransas/Matagorda Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Austwell, Texas (Region 2). Salary Range Information (Per Annum): $33.57 - $39.25 per hour *First time hires to the Federal government normally start at the step 1 rate.
QualificationsRequirements Continued... Under applicable law, the employment of an individual serving a probationary or trial period automatically terminates when that period ends unless the agency affirmatively certifies, in writing, that the individual's employment should continue and that their appointment should be finalized. In the absence of agency action to affirmatively certify continued employment beyond the probationary or trial period, such appointments are terminated. Upon completion of your probationary your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. Qualifications: 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 an Engineering Equipment Operator without more than normal Supervison (SCREEN OUT) Operation of Motor Vehicles. Ability to Drive Safely (Motor Vehicles) Work Practices (includes keeping things neat, clan and in order) Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc. (related to mobile equipment operation) Ability to Operate Safely (Non-Motor Vehicle) Reliability and Dependability as an Engineering Equipment Operator 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.
Major DutiesSome of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: Operate heavy equipment, such as excavators, bulldozers, graders, skid steers, loaders, dump trucks, specialized tracked equipment, agricultural tractors with implements, and herbicide spraying equipment, to support construction, maintenance, and habitat management projects. Transport oversized and heavy-haul equipment and materials in accordance with established safety requirements. Maintain and repair a variety of equipment, such as heavy equipment, specialized tracked equipment, vehicles, boats, generators, and small engines, by diagnosing malfunctions, replacing defective parts, and performing preventive maintenance. Perform building and facility maintenance by troubleshooting and repairing electrical, plumbing, carpentry, roofing, masonry, welding, and heating and cooling systems. In coordination with Refuge staff, plan and complete land management, construction, maintenance, and repair projects with minimal supervision. Protect natural resources by following environmental compliance requirements and minimizing impacts to wildlife habitat during project activities. Train and mentor employees and volunteers while ensuring safe work practices and proper use of tools, equipment, and protective gear. Maintain accurate maintenance, equipment, and work records by updating logs and entering data into approved electronic systems.RequirementsMust provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication. Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service. Direct Deposit participation required. Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more, visit www.dhs.gov/EVerify/. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest will be evaluated. Must have and maintain a valid driver's license throughout employment. Must possess and maintain a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) . Pre-employment and random alcohol and drug testing are required. You will not be appointed to the position if a verified positive test is received. Pre-employment and random drug testing are required. You will not be appointed to the position if a verified positive drug test is received. A physical examination will be required, or a statement regarding physical ability will need to be completed. You must maintain physical fitness standards throughout employment. You are required to wear a uniform and comply with the uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided. You are required to complete training, obtain and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority. This probationary period is an extension of the appointment process and therefore requires the agency to determine if continued employment would advance the public interest, meet the organization goals and mission of the agency, and/or otherwise promote the efficiency of the service. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, the agency will consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.