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Small Craft Operator XF-5786-11 (47045)

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    WELCOME! 
     
    The information seen below is a vacant job opportunity with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).  
     
    Please carefully review the information and click the "Apply" button below if you would like to apply and be considered for this position. 
     
    Additional USACE Career Opportunities can be explored at the USACE Job Board (<- click here). 
     
  • Position Title:
    • Small Craft Operator XF-5786-11 (47045)
  • Pay Plan:
    • XF
  • Occupational Series:
    • 5786
  • Grade:
    • 11
  • Highest Grade:
    • 11
  • Hourly vs Salary:
    • Hourly
  • Job Posting Open Date:
    • 10/19/2026
  • Job Posting Close Date:
    • 11/02/2026
  • Announcement Type:
    • Direct-Hire Authority (DHA)
  • Position Type:
    • Permanent
  • High Salary:
    • 40.07
  • Low Salary :
    • 34.30
  • USACE Organization :
    • South Atlantic Division (SAD) - Wilmington District
  • HISTORICAL Locations (City, State):
    • Wilmington, NC
  • Position Overview/Duties:
    • Position Title: Small Craft Operator

      Series/Grade: XF-5786-11

      Open Period:19 October -2 November, 2026

      Duty Location(s): Wilmington, NC

      Duties & Responsibilities:

      • Small Craft Operator is in charge of plant with responsibility for the operation and maintenance of 2-3 survey vessels, 26 to 65 feet in length.
      • Conduct sophisticated and computerized hydrographic surveys within all types of conditions, especially in shallow draft inlet conditions.
      • Pilots and operates survey vessel engaged in transporting survey personnel performing such work as single beam, side scan sonar and multibeam hydrographic surveys.
      • Other operations for the vessel include transporting passengers during tours and personnel to replace and repair auto tide gages, towing other craft, debris removal, etc.
      • Assumes accountability for the safekeeping and preservation of all property and equipment on the vessel. Maintains operating and machinery log.


  • Other Conditions and Requirements:
    • This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD, Section 9905 to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. Veterans' preference does not apply to this announcement.

      WHO MAY APPLY: US Citizens.

      Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Small Craft Operator without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform the common task of operation of an outboard engine boat. I have a good understanding vessel capabilities, auxiliary equipment, anchor, and navigation rules. I work under close supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure all tasks are properly performed. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.

      Other Requirements, Conditions of Employment and information:

      • How to Apply: Applications must be submitted after 12:01 AM (EST) of the posted Job Posting Open Date and before 11:45 PM (EST) of the posted Job Posting Close Date to receive consideration. Click the apply button, follow the prompts (fill out the required collect form, attach a resume following the resume format guidance).
      • All positions require the applicant to be a citizen of the United States.
      • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, are required to register for Selective Service prior to appointment.
      • Direct deposit of pay is required.
      • A trial or probationary period may be required.
      • Hiring incentives such as a recruitment/relocation bonus, and service credit for leave, may be authorized (subject to available budget).
      • Relocation (PCS) expenses may be authorized (subject to available budget) if the selecting official determines the relocation is in the best interests of the government.
      • Must possess at a minimum, a valid USCG Masters license for near coastal, steam or motor
        vessels of 50 gross tons.
      • Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
      • This position requires the incumbent to obtain and maintain appropriate district permits for
        operation of vessels of less than 26 feet.
      • The incumbent must possess, or obtain within 1 year of appointment, and maintain a valid First Aid
        and CPR certification, or Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, from the American Red Cross,
        American Heart Association, or equivalent nationally recognized accrediting organization.
      • Overnight travel required for training, conferences and rotational assignments approximately 40%
        of the time.
      • A pre-appointment Physical exam required and the incumbent will be subject to scheduled medical
        surveillance. Must wear protective clothing or equipment, as the particular situation requires such as
        coveralls, rubber boots, gloves, steel-toed shoes, goggles, earmuffs, life jacket or other PFD, etc.
      • This job assignment is aboard a survey vessel assigned to work on various inlets and connecting
        channels along the Atlantic Coast.
      • This position meets the criteria for random drug and alcohol testing under the Department of Army
        Drug-Free Workplace Program as supplemented by USACE ER 690-1-1218. Incumbent is required
        to sign a DA Form 7412, Condition of Employment for Certain Civilian Positions Identified Safety-
        Sensitive Under the DOT, Federal Highway Administration Rules on Drug and Alcohol Testing.
      • Must be able to lift 50lbs.
      • Occasional emergency and weekend work may be required to support mission requirements.
  • Life/Work Balance:
    • Life/Work Flexibilities Determined by Specific Position
  • Qualifications - Candidates will be evaluated in accordance with OPM General Schedule (GS) Qualification Standards or Federal Wage System (FWS) Qualifications and Job Elements:
    • FWS Qualifications: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/#url=Job-Elements
  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy: The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor:
    • To learn more, please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity (https://www.eeoc.gov/federal-sector/federal-employees-job-applicants).
  • Reasonable Accommodation:
    • Reasonable accommodation is available to qualified employees with disabilities. You can request a reasonable accommodation at any time during the application process, hiring process or while on the job. Requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
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