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-06: $27.53 (Rate 01) to $32.08 (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: Operates drilling related equipment under the direct supervision of lead and journeyman drill rig operators at intermittent intervals as part of on-the-job training. Assists drillers in performance of routine maintenance on all equipment. Assists with repairs, greasing and lubrication of equipment under supervision of drilling foreman. As directed by lead driller onsite, performs all drilling related tasks such as mixing and pumping grout, ensuring mud is mixed and balanced, mud system is functioning, unloads trucks and trailers, makes water and fuel runs, and works the table or trailer while tripping drill pipe in our out. Responsible for keeping equipment clean and helping with all other tasks in order to make the project successful. Keeps work areas clear and assists with restoration of drill sites after completion of the work as directed by the drill rig operator. Maintains small tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, saws, axes, picks, mattocks, shovels, and chain tongs in satisfactory condition. Obtains tools for operator and returns tools to storage kit at completion of operations. 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 to 100 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.