Electrician

Summary

This is the position of Electrician, at the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory (FLWO), in the Optical and Infrared Astronomy Division of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Amado, Arizona. The individual is responsible for installing, modifying, repairing, maintaining, troubleshooting, testing, and loading new and existing electrical lines, circuits, systems and associated fixtures, controls, and equipment.

Duties

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1.Installs, modifies, maintains, repairs, troubleshoots, and tests circuits, systems, associated fixtures, controls, and equipment of secondary power distribution lines and circuits used to supply a wide range of voltage, amperage, phase, and frequency requirements to distribution panels, switchgear, power and control circuits, fire detection and suppression systems, security alarms, lightning protection systems, and electronic monitoring systems.

2.Works from building plans, blueprints, wiring diagrams, engineering drawings, and electrical maintenance and repair manuals. Plans and lays out the routing, placement type, size, gauge, balance, load, continuity, and safe operation of electrical lines, circuits, systems, equipment and controls that support industrial operations, computer complexes, or similar complex electrical loads. Traces hard-to-locate defects or problems associated with the completion of repairs and installations. Determines and places distribution panels, boxes, fittings, and connections and install wiring, couplings, conduit, relays, fixtures, transformers, and other electrical devices including electrical service entrances.

3.Conduct training for other employees in the preventive maintenance, electrical safety, and servicing of all electrical systems and equipment. Identifies and communicates opportunities for improvement, cost savings, productivity/efficiency improvements and safety improvements.

4.Collaborates with architects and engineers to identify discrepancies between blueprints and on-site conditions, ensuring accurate project execution. Works with projects teams to ensure projects were completed on schedule and within budget.

5.Designs and development of various electrical systems and controllers. Performs site audits and inspections. Engages in all phases of new product introduction, including concept. Incumbent troubleshoots, repairs, and conducts preventive maintenance on motor control centers. Performs preventive maintenance as scheduled or required on electrical equipment as recommended by the manufacturer and on site safety programs. Ensures all work meets prescribed standards of quality and ensures compliance with all laws, safety procedures, policies and codes. Inspects electrical systems, equipment, or components to identify hazards, defects, or the need for adjustment or repair. Monitors performance of equipment and informs management of any potential problems. Interprets and applies the National Electrical Code, local codes, etc., and uses trade formulas to calculate common properties.

Requirements

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Conditions of employment

Pre- and post-appointment background investigation

May be required to serve a one-year probationary period.

Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.

Direct Deposit/Elect Funds Transfer required for salary payment.

Must have a valid drivers' license and be able to operate a vehicle on a narrow, steep, unpaved mountain road.

Physical requirements: Repairs and installations are made from ladders, scaffolding, platforms and other hard-to-reach places. This requires the employee to stand, stoop, bend, kneel, climb, and work in tiring and uncomfortable positions. The work requires frequently lifting and carrying of tools, equipment and parts that weigh up to 20 pounds and occasionally up to 40 pounds.

As part of medical surveillance programs, the incumbent may be required to take medical examinations to assess his/her medical

qualifications for the position of Electrician.

Working conditions: The work is performed both inside and outside. The Electrician is sometimes required to make repairs and installations in bad weather and work in areas that are noisy, dirty, dusty, and greasy on scaffolding or cranes at heights of 30 feet or more and in close quarters such as manholes and attics. There is exposure to the possibility of injury from falling, electrical shock, burns, and injuries from rotary devices such as electrical motors and is frequently exposed to the possibility of cuts and bruises.

Qualifications

Your overall experience and training must indicate that you have the minimum knowledge, skills, abilities needed to perform the duties of this position. There is no substitution of education for experience for this position.

Qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement.

Additional information on the Job Qualification

System for Trades and Labor Occupations can be

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Additional information

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

The Smithsonian offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, vacation and sick leave, holidays, health/life insurance, accident insurance, and excellent retirement program options. Please see Benefits at for a complete description.

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.