Small Craft Operator (Open to both U.S. Citizens and Federal Employees) - Maritime Administration

Qualifications for the position are based on the training, experience, or other requirements that determine which applicants would be able to perform satisfactorily in the position to be filled. To qualify for the WG-09, your experience should include experience equal or equivalent to the following: Ability to operate and perform basic preventive maintenance on watercraft and related mechanical equipment, and identify operational issues requiring repair or adjustment. Ability to safely operate watercraft in accordance with applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations and Inland Waterways navigation rules. Ability to recognize emergency and unsafe conditions, operate marine communication and navigation equipment (e.g., VHF radios and radar), and respond effectively to emergencies. Your application will also be rated on the following job elements: Ability to Do the Work of the Position without More than Normal Supervision. Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (related to mobile equipment operation). Ability to Drive Safely (water crafts). 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. Applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement. If you do not meet the minimum levels in the ability to do the work OR if you do not meet the minimum level overall, you will be disqualified. As a Small Craft Operator, you will: Operate diesel and gasoline-powered watercraft and perform daily fueling and preventive maintenance to ensure safe and reliable vessel operations. Patrol assigned fleet and waterfront areas during regular and after-hours shifts, identifying and addressing unauthorized personnel, vessels, and other security concerns. Monitor vessel conditions and security systems, including CCTV, moorings, anchors, cables, flooding indicators, vessel stability, and shore power availability. Serve as a deckhand aboard fleet vessels and barges, supporting navigation, docking, and general marine operations. Load, unload, transport, and handle equipment, supplies, and materials while ensuring the safe movement of cargo and personnel. The ideal candidate for a Small Craft Operator position is a safety-conscious and dependable professional with proven experience operating small vessels, conducting routine inspections and maintenance, and complying with all applicable federal, state, and maritime regulations.