What are the responsibilities and job description for the Powerplant Operator position at Montana Area Office?
Reclamation is seeking a career professional looking for an opportunity to capitalize on their expertise as a Powerplant Operator. You can make a difference in the West by assisting in meeting increasing water demands while protecting the environment.
Duty Location: Fort Smith, Montana
For living conditions go to: https://www.usbr.gov/gp/employment/living_conditions.pdf.
Minimum qualifications for trades and labor positions are determined by evaluation of job elements. 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 in order to be considered qualified for this position.
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.
You must meet all Eligibility and Qualification requirements and any selective placement factors if applicable, by 04/23/2026.
Duty Location: Fort Smith, Montana
For living conditions go to: https://www.usbr.gov/gp/employment/living_conditions.pdf.
Qualifications:
Your application materials must demonstrate sufficient experience and training to perform the duties of this position without more than normal supervision. Qualifications will be determined on the basis of information submitted within your resume and responses to the assessment questions. For information about qualifications for Federal Wage System positions please, visit OPM.Minimum qualifications for trades and labor positions are determined by evaluation of job elements. 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 in order to be considered qualified for this position.
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.
You must meet all Eligibility and Qualification requirements and any selective placement factors if applicable, by 04/23/2026.
Responsibilities:
- Operates and coordinates 2 dams, and the associated powerplant and switchyard (115KV and 230KV). These duties include operating the four 75 MW generating and condensing units, related auxiliary equipment, and water release equipment. Operation may be by manual, automatic or computer control means.
- Receives and reviews generation, pumping, and water release schedules and executes changes within operating parameters. Receives clearance requests and executes placement.
- Develops and issues switching programs, clearances, and special condition tags.
- Performs operational inspections of powerplant, switchyard, dams, and other related facilities and equipment.
- Monitors service board meters and data reporting systems. Records and analyzes data and compiles standardized reports. Responds to trouble alarms; takes actions necessary to protect personnel, equipment, and facilities.
- Acts as a communication coordinator for mobile units, remote sites, other project facilities, and Reclamation interests. In emergency situations, directs activities of both operation and maintenance personnel.
Salary : $55