Irrigation System Operator

Full Job Description

This position is located with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Superintendent, Flathead Agency Irrigation Project in Saint Ignatius, Montana. This is a temporary position NOT-TO-EXCEED 6 MONTHS.

However, the position may be extended up to SIX (6) ADDITIONAL MONTHS WITHOUT FURTHER COMPETITION.

NOTE: THE PAY FLEXIBILITIES OF A RECRUITMENT BONUS, RELOCATION BONUS OR STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT MAY BE AUTHORIZED, PENDING AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS AND MANAGEMENT APPROVAL.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: (OPM Operating Manual, Qualification Standards for Technical and Medical Support Positions, GS-5 0459 and IOR).

GS-5: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-4 grade level OR 4-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor's degree with courses related to the occupation, if required.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Experience that equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA's) to perform successfully the duties of the position and is typically in or related to the position to be filled.

Examples of qualifying specialized experience include: Farming or ranching work that provided knowledge of soil and water conservation practices and irrigation procedures used in the geographical area for which application is made.

Construction, maintenance, or operating work that provided a knowledge of the control, regulation, distribution, and measurement of water.

Control, clearing, maintaining irrigation ditches, canals, and equipment; or soil conservation or engineering technician work where the duties provided a knowledge of irrigation procedures.

All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement. Merit Promotion candidates must also meet time-in-grade requirements by the announcement closing date.

Additional selections may be made from this announcement if identical vacancies occur in the same location within 90 days from the closing date. Major Duties:

As Irrigation System Operator, GS 5-0459, your typical work assignments may include, but not limited to: Schedule and ensure water delivery to eligible water users.

Log all water requests pertaining to operations. Communicate with water users involving maintenance and water deliver.

Resolve water disputes as it pertains to Irrigation operations, maintenance, and water delivery. Repair or replace structures in canals and laterals. Prevent flooding of crops.

Clean debris out of the canal to prevent damage to equipment. Maintain equipment usage and repair to prevent flooding of canals.

Perform various irrigation duties including dam operations, dam safety and early warning systems with little or no supervision.

Plan and schedule work activities for irrigation assignments requiring completion.