JOB SUMMARY: What General Information Do I Need To Know About This Position? This is a term appointment not to exceed 13 months/years with possible extensions up to a total of 4 years without further competition. Appointment to this position will not convey permanent status in the Federal service. Salary: WG-07: $29.03 (Rate 01) to $33.85 (Rate 05); NOTE: First time hires to the Federal Government are typically hired at the Step 01. MAJOR DUTIES: As a Drill Rig Operator within the Research Drilling Program, some of your specific duties will include: Acts as back or journeyman driller, directs and assists in setting up rig and drilling holes to depths as great as 3,000 feet. Uses all types of drill bits from simple drag bits to tri-cone bits to carbide bits to diamond impregnated bits. Preforms Drilling methods that include direct and reverse mud rotary and air rotary, downhole air hammer, continuous core, auger, direct push and any other method deemed necessary to complete the mission. Obtains geologic cores from holes using a variety of different core barrels under difficult geologic conditions. Performs all preventive maintenance and overhaul on drill rig and accessory equipment. Responsible for working well within a unit, able to follow directions given Additional Requirements of the Job: Must operate a government vehicle as an incidental driver. Work days are typically 12 hour shifts in strenuous conditions and extreme weather. Lifting objects up to 100 lbs will be required. Climbing and working at heights 30' to 40' feet above ground will be required. Physical Effort: Drill rig operation work involves standing for prolonged periods, walking, bending, pushing, reaching, pulling, lifting and working long shifts. Work days are typically 12 hours per day and sometimes more. Machinery control work is done in close proximity to rotating drill shaft or tool hammering operations, requiring quick reflex action to respond to drilling problems. Frequently handles objects weighing 40 to100 pounds and occasionally, tools, samples, and equipment that are heavier. Working Conditions: Work on sites requires the wearing of protective gear against possible exposure to chemical hazards. Use of specified personal protective equipment is mandatory. Works in all kinds of weather, frequently in wet, muddy, and dry conditions, exposed to poison growth, reptiles, insects, and under noisy conditions. Exposed to cuts and bruises in using tools and working around moving machinery, strains while breaking or adding joints to drive shaft, slips and falls in wet weather, and the possibility of electric shock or bums. And travel typically up to 21 days in the field without time off. IMPORTANT: Click the 'Apply for this job' button to view a complete job description.