Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic Job in Vancouver, WA

Vacancy No. 25-BPA-42683-12575381-DH Department Bonneville Power Administration
Salary $55.08 to $55.08 Grade 00 to 00
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 10/16/2024 Close Date 10/25/2024
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Vancouver, WA


Summary

The Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic (HMEM) performs preventative, predictive and corrective maintenance on BPA's light and heavy mobile equipment fleet.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

This is a Direct Hire Public Notice.

Duties

As a Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic, you will:

1. Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on heavy to light equipment and engine generators. Assigned tasks are designed to help determine the condition of in-service equipment to predict when maintenance should be performed to extend the life and reliability of the vehicle and/or equipment.

2. Uses available original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and after-market computer based diagnostic tools and equipment to isolate and identify system malfunctions.

3. Corrects deficiencies on all major systems and subsystems on heavy trucks, light vehicles, equipment and unique applications to the transmission electrical utility industry.

4. The above tasks are performed on the following equipment and systems:

a. Engines. (Diesel, Gasoline, and Compressed Gas). Diagnose, repair and/or replace sub-systems such as: engine brakes, charging, starting, fuel injection, carburetors, cooling and air conditioning, and other support systems to assure peak performance and compliance with environmental standards.

b. Power Train. Diagnose, repair or replace power train components to meet OEM specifications. service and repair automatic, manual, and power shift transmission, differentials, clutches, universal joints, and multiple drive axles, and hub assemblies.

c. Brakes. Diagnose, repair, and/or replace braking and anti-skid systems components. Service/repair air, hydraulic or electric-salvo mechanism to include, drum, disc, S-cam, and wedge braking.

d. Hydraulics. Diagnose, repair and/or replace high pressure and extra high pressure hydraulic systems and components on light to heavy vehicle and equipment to include but not limited to cranes, backhoes, dozers, aerial man-lifts and material handlers. Use complex hydraulic schematics and interpret engineered drawings. Possess the ability to modify hydraulic systems and components in practical situation to maintain safe and functional operations. May be required to perform complete overhaul of hydraulic assemblies and subassemblies to include but not limited to pumps, motors, actuators, controls, accumulators, electro-hydraulic servo devices and valves.

e. Suspension and Steering. Diagnose, repair and/or replace steering components to correct wheel alignment, balancing, rear wheel tracking. Perform maintenance on steering and suspension system components to include, but no limited to, steering gear adjustment (power and manual), shock absorbers, control arms, street tracks, torque arms, bushings, kingpins, ball joints, springs, multiple steering axles, walking beams, etc.

f. Electrical Systems. Diagnose, repair and/or replace electrical system components associated with batteries, starters, regulators, charging devices, controls, meters, and powered accessories. Read and interpret electrical symbols and schematics and may be required to perform complete overhaul of electrical systems to include the creation or modification of wiring harnesses as directed.

g. Aerial devices. Inspect, diagnose, and repair aerial device structure and system components. Perform maintenance on aerial device system components to include but not limited to wear pads, hoses, sheaves, extension and retract cables, hydraulic cylinder leveling system, turret, rotation gear box, rotation bearings, outriggers and support structure. Perform document and interpret bearing deflection readings.

5. Makes modifications or additions to equipment as directed from general instructions and/or sketches. Welding is required to make repairs, modifications and minor fabrication to vehicles and equipment and may take place in the maintenance facility or in the field.

6. Performs inspections and submits inspection reports to supervisor on the condition of all vehicles, heavy equipment, and generators. Completes and submits inspection reports (e.g., condition, annual crane, wire rope, aerial devices, DOT, etc.) using inspection forms via computer and multiple software programs.

7. Operate motorized equipment (e.g., trucks, vans, flatbed trucks, Class 8 trucks with trailer). Drives approximately 35% of the time in all weather conditions. For testing and inspection purposes, must be able to operate all BPA and GSA vehicles and equipment.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • Position is subject to initial pre-employment Drug Testing and random drug testing thereafter.
  • This position requires a pre-employment medical exam, at BPA expense, prior to appointment due to the physical requirements of the position.
  • When you apply you will be asked a series of questions to determine your eligibility for employment and your qualification for this position specifically. You must answer all of these questions completely and truthfully.
  • You must be a United States Citizen or National.
  • A preliminary background check must be completed before a new employee can begin work. Current Federal employees or other individuals with an existing completed background investigation may not be required to undergo another background check.
  • Must be familiar with and adhere to the safety practices of the BPA Accident Prevention Manual and OSHA regulations applicable to this position.
  • If exposed to health hazards, the employee is required to have periodic physical examinations as prescribed by competent medical authority at BPA expense. (Employees may work in close proximity to substances, such as: asbestos, acids, PCB's pesticides, mercury solvents, etc., which may have effect on health unless prescribed handling procedures are followed.)
  • Subject to call for emergency work at any time.
  • Must possess and maintain a US Motor Vehicle Operator Authorization (i.e., driver's license) and interstate Commercial Driver's License (CDL - Class A), including current DOT medical card with applicable endorsement to meet Federal and State requirements. Good Driving Record is required. Traffic citations indicating poor driving habits may disqualify applicants. Failure to maintain a valid CDL and medical card and Operator authorization may be cause for removal from Federal service.
  • Within 1 year after appointment be certified for First Aid and CPR and maintain certification thereafter.
  • Operate motorized equipment, e.g., pickup trucks up to ½-ton capacity, vans, or flatbed trucks. Must be able to operate, for test and inspection only, all BPA and GSA motorized vehicles and work equipment.
  • Must wear protective apparel such as respirators when required for worker safety.
  • Overnight travel up to 25% of the time is required.
  • This employer participates in the e-Verify program.
  • Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • May be required to successfully complete a probationary period.

Qualifications

Applicants must meet the requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations (X-118C). Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.

Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below. This job has a screen-out factors which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on this screen-out element(s) will be found ineligible.

The screen-out element for this position is: Applicants must possess at appointment, and maintain thereafter, a valid U. S. State issued Commercial Driver's License (CDL- Class A) in order to drive and operate U. S. government owned and leased vehicles and equipment.

In addition to the screen-out element you will be evaluated on the following Job Elements through your resume and responses to the on-line assessment questionnaire:

  • Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision

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. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone.

This position has a selective placement factor, failure to meet this requirement(s) will result in an ineligible rating.

  • Must possess a current valid U.S. motor vehicle operator's license from state of residence and interstate Commercial Driver's License (CDL), including current DOT medical card with applicable endorsement to meet Federal and State requirements.
  • Ability to perform without more than normal supervision a range of technical corrective and preventive maintenance, including inspecting, diagnosing, repairing, rebuilding, testing, and adjusting on major systems and components of specialized heavy-duty mobile vehicles, and equipment. Experience should include working with heavy construction and earthmoving equipment, aerial man-lifts, hydraulic mobile cranes, and class 8 trucks.

Working Conditions

A Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic works in tiring and uncomfortable positions for long periods of time. The work is physically challenging and requires standing, lying, or sitting. Frequently lifts and carry items, unassisted, weighing up to 75 pounds, often exerts effort in pushing, pulling and position in parts, assemblies, and equipment. Lift and move heavier items with the assistance of other works or with lifting devices such as jacks, hoists, and cranes. Works from ladders or work platforms up to 12 feet (average 2-6 feet). The work is performed both indoors and outdoors. When indoors, the incumbent is frequently exposed to drafts, changing temperatures, and high noise levels, which are difficult to hear and talk above. When outdoors, the incumbent may work in bad weather, mud or snow, and wet or icy areas and conditions. The mechanic is frequently exposed to irritation or discomfort from dust, heat, fumes, and hard damp floors or ground. Typically works on parts systems which are dirty, oily, or greasy. Is frequently exposed to the possibility of receiving cuts, , bruises, electrical shock, sprains, and injury from falls while repairing, positioning, and moving equipment and is often exposed to the possibility of receiving burns and skin irritations from acid, fluids, and lubricants.

To reduce the dangers and irritations when performing tasks the mechanic is required to follow prescribed safety practices and use of assigned personal protective equipment such as protective ear devices, eye wear, hard hats, welding hood, hard-toe shoes, respirators, and protective clothing to prevent injury from self or others as well as to protect equipment and work from damage or destruction. Some of these safety items may be uncomfortable to wear or use and may have to be worn or used for long periods.

HMEM job(s) may be designated to support multiple facilities throughout BPA's service territory (organizationally referred to as a mobile mechanic). When assigned, the HMEM may be in a nearly continuous travel status.

Physical Requirements

Incumbents must be physically and mentally able to efficiently perform the essential duties of the position (such as the ability to work at heights up to 150 feet) with or without reasonable accommodation, without hazard to themselves or others.

Essential Functions

  • Corrects deficiencies on all major systems such as engines, power trains, hydraulic suspension, steering and electrical systems,and subsystems on both heavy vehicles and mobile equipment such as bulldozers, road graders, rollers, construction and earth moving equipment; front-end loaders, backhoes, and similar power shovels; mobile cranes; heavy special purpose vehicles such as large transmission line maintenance vehicles, fuel dispensing trucks, and fire trucks; and automobiles and light equipment such as forklifts and snowmobiles. Performs inspections of vehicles and equipment.
  • Utilizes scientific diagnostic equipment to diagnose and correct malfunction of internal and external parts of equipment and vehicles; repairs or replaces power train components, brakes, suspension and steering problems.
  • Utilizes advanced diagnostic techniques and theory to isolate and correct problems in high pressure and extra-high pressure hydraulic systems.
  • Uses technical schematics and drawings as required for trouble-shooting and maintenance of equipment.
  • Uses tools and work equipment such as electric arc and gas welding equipment and mechanical tools.
  • Drives 35% of the time in all weather conditions.

"Experience" refers to paid and unpaid experience. Examples of qualifying unpaid experience may include: volunteer work done through National Service programs (such as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps); as well as work for other community-based philanthropic and social organizations. 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.

CTAP/ICTAP candidates: To be considered "well qualified" you must meet all of the requirements as described in this section.

You must meet ALL qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education

There is no substitution of education for experience for Federal Wage Grade (WG) positions.

Additional information

About the Position - Vancouver
This position is located in Vancouver, WA, a splendid place to live because of its picturesque downtown area full of trendy shops, delicious restaurants, and exclusive breweries. There are several breathtaking nature parks, miles of bike trails, and amazing panoramic mountain views! Vancouver is the perfect place for anyone who loves to be outdoors and really enjoys nature!

EEO Policy: http://www.usajobs.gov/eeo
Reasonable Accommodation Policy: http://www.usajobs.gov/raps
Veterans Information: http://www.usajobs.gov/vi
Telework: www.telework.gov
Selective Service Registration: http://www.sss.gov/

BPA strives to ensure a safe, positive, inclusive work environment, supported by Leadership Behaviors. For more information on Leadership Behaviors visit: www.bpa.gov/goto/LeadershipBehaviors

We also understand the importance of work/life balance and offer a variety of programs and policies designed to create more flexible, responsive work environments supportive of commitments to community, home and family members. BPA also supports employees' overall wellness through its Be Well program, which helps employees adopt healthier lifestyles and feel better about their work/life balance. The program supports five key areas of life: career, community, financial, physical and social.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

This position is announced under a government-wide Direct-Hire Authority (DHA) for Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic positions in the 5803 series. Under the DHA, all applicants who meet the Education and Qualification requirements listed in this announcement, at the grade level they are applying, will be forwarded to the Selecting Official for consideration. Veteran's Preference, category rating, and traditional rating and ranking of applicants does not apply under the DHA process.

If you are eligible for career transition assistance plans such as ICTAP or CTAP, you must meet the Education and Qualification requirements listed in this announcement to be referred for consideration.

If your resume is incomplete or does not support the responses you provided in your online questionnaire, or if you fail to submit all required documentation before the vacancy closes, you may be rated 'ineligible' or 'not qualified'.

Your qualifications will be evaluated on the following competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics):

  • Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision


You must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date (10/25/2024) of this announcement.

To preview the Assessment Questionnaire, click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12575381

Required Documents

To apply for this position, you MUST provide a complete application package which includes:

  • Your RESUME showing all relevant work experience (paid and unpaid) including: duties performed; full name and address of the each employer; start and end dates (month/day/year); work schedule (part-time, full-time, number of hours if intermittent); salary; and any completed education and training (program title, subject area, number of hours completed, and completion date).
  • Cover Letter, optional, expressing additional information not covered in your resume.
  • Transcripts, if specific educational requirements are indicated in this job announcement.Unofficial transcripts or any report listing institution, course title, credits earned (semester or quarter hour) and final grade is acceptable. It is your responsibility to provide adequate proof that you meet the educational requirements.
  • Career Transition Assistance Program/Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program documentation, if applicable(e.g., Certification of Expected Separation, Reduction-In-Force Separation Notice, or Notice of Proposed Removal; SF-50 that documents the RIF separation action; and most recent performance appraisal.) For more information see the OPM Guide to Career Transition.

Failure to submit any of the above mentioned required documents may result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package. It is your responsibility to ensure all required documents have been submitted.

How to Apply

Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply for this position, you must complete the initial online application, to include submission of the required documentation specified in the Required Documents section. A complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on the announcement closing date to receive consideration.

The application process is as follows:

  1. You must have a login.gov account to sign into USAJOBS: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/account/.
  2. To begin the application process in USAJOBS, click the Apply Online button.
  3. Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all required and supporting documentation.
  4. You must click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59 pm (ET) on the announcement closing date.
You may update your application, including supporting documentation, at any time during the announcement open period by returning to your USAJOBS account, select Update Application: https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed.

To verify the status of your application, during and after the announcement open period, log into your USAJOBS account; applications will appear on the Welcome screen. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each application status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.

If you need help with login.gov or USAJOBS (e.g., account access, Resume Builder) visit the USAJOBS Help Center: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/

If you experience difficulty applying on USAJOBS, after clicking the Apply Online button, or you are experiencing a significant hardship hindering your ability to apply online, the Agency Contact listed in the announcement can assist you during normal business hours. If you receive any system error messages, take screenshots if possible, to aid technical support.

Agency contact information

Jessica Jones
Address
Bonneville Power Administration
P.O. Box 3621
Portland, OR 97208
US
Learn more about this agency

Next steps

Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. The status of your application will be updated in USAJOBS as it is evaluated.

You can check the status by logging into USAJOBS. You may also sign up to receive automatic emails anytime the status of your application changes by logging into your USAJobs Account and editing the Notification Settings.

You will be contacted directly if an interview is required.

Please check that your USAJOBS profile contact information is current and correct each time you apply to a job--this will ensure we are able to contact you as quickly as possible.

In addition to changing your status online, we will send you e-mail notifications at each major step in the process, to include: application received, eligible or not eligible, referred or not referred, selected or not selected.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.