Electrical Controls Technician, FSN-8

Vacancy Announcement No. 2011-17 June 21, 2011
Open To: All Interested Candidates/All Sources
Position: Electrical Controls Technician, FSN-8
Opening Date: Immediate
Closing Date: July 5, 2011
Work Hours: Full Time schedule-40 hours/week


The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura is seeking an individual for the position of Electrical Controls Technician for the Facility Management Section.

All ordinarily resident (OR) applicants must have the required work and/or residency permits to be eligible for consideration.

BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION

Employed as an Electrical Controls Technician to carry out skilled maintenance and repair work throughout the New Embassy Compound/New Consulate Compound (NEC/NCC) buildings, grounds and residential owned/leased properties. The incumbent specializes in electrical control systems of automated equipment and assisting in the programming control sequences, control devices and their interface with the Building Automation System (BAS).

Employed as an Electrical Controls Technician to carry out skilled maintenance and repair work throughout the New Embassy Compound/New Consulate Compound (NEC/NCC) buildings, grounds and residential owned/leased properties. Work assignments will be directed by the Facility Manager or an assigned Supervising Engineer.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Employed as an Electrical Controls Technician to carry out skilled maintenance and repair work throughout the New Embassy Compound/New Consulate Compound (NEC/NCC) buildings, grounds and residential owned/leased properties. Work assignments will be directed by the Facility Manager or an assigned Supervising Engineer.

Operation Support: (50% OF TIME)

1. Maintains and operates the Electrical Power Control System and other building electrical systems. Included but not limited to, emergency generator controls, fire alarm control, fire suppression systems, automatic transfer switches, relay controls, programmable control systems for switch gear, medium voltage transformers and motor control centers.

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2. Assists the Building Automation System Technician (BASET) in the production of computer generated reports from the Building Automation System, which is the backbone of the Electrical Power Control System, to troubleshoot and diagnose trending data.

3. Performs preventive maintenance on the Electrical Power Control System and related components to maintain system operation and reliability to ensure uninterrupted power and continuous air supply to critical facilities, equipment and systems. Responds to scheduled, unscheduled and preventive maintenance work orders generated by the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS). The current program for the Department of State is Work Order for Windows (WOW).

4. Inspects, tests, evaluates, calibrates and updates Electrical Power Control System and wiring to improve reliability and to assure dependability and safety and compliance. Inspects facilities (including houses, temporary trailers, buildings, etc); equipment (e.g. fire safety, generators, compressors, etc.); systems (e.g. electrical, plumbing, power sources, etc.); and work of vendors to determine condition of facilities, safe operation of equipment, quality and safety of work, and scheduled maintenance. Provides routine and emergency condition inspections, as required by manufacturer requirements, on all systems and advises the Facility Manager and Supervising Engineer in writing of problems and recommendations.

5. Ensures proper use of time, tools, specialty diagnostic devices materials, parts and provide data on all completed preventive maintenance task, spares, and consumables.

6. Responds to 24-hour emergency calls to repair remote generator systems and assigned work area during off-duty hours.

Maintenance Support: (40% OF TIME)

1. Assists in analyzing Electrical Power Control Systems, obtaining and documenting critical performance data to be reported to the Facility Manager (FM) or supervising engineer detailing operational proficiency. Data consists of power consumption, evaluations and historical data reviews, and systems performance requirements. Reviews reports and logs generated by the Electrical Power Controls to analyze the systems performance and reports to the FM or supervising engineer.

2. Assists in preparation of Statements of Work (SOW) and construction documents for repairs, new construction and renovation work. Assistance includes obtaining telephone/written estimates and quotes of materials and equipment needed for repairs and the completion of job tasks. Monitors contractors work for providing products and services as the terms and conditions of the contract. Assists in developing punch lists, testing, and inspections as required to ensure quality services and construction work and assists LES Facility Maintenance personnel in the performance of in-house projects.

3. Assists in providing guidance to other LES Facility Maintenance personnel and vendors/contractors in the correct operation of equipment, use of diagnostic devices and materials used to complete required maintenance activities, general operations, and future expansion projects.

4. Assists in the development and implementation of a comprehensive preventive maintenance program for building systems equipment and associated control devices.

Logistic Support: (10% OF TIME)

1. Contributes to the safety program of the facility. Insures work does not present health problems or risk of injury to workers or other employees or visitors.

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2. Remains current on job specific expertise through various sources (e.g. trade publications, trade shows, vendor communication, etc.) to keep abreast of the latest technological developments and products to improve generator reliability.

3. Collateral duty assignments will be at the discretion of the Facility Manager but could include the following: Additional mechanic duties, Assistant POSHO, Government Technical Monitor (GTM), and/or Escort. Participates in LES Facility Maintenance personnel training programs sponsored by DOS, manufacturers and private vendors.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education: The position requires successful completion of secondary school and two (2) years of journey-level training in the repair and maintenance of digital building control systems. Education or technical training in a field related to specialize electrical building controls or related electrical equipment through a recognized trade union, technical school or equivalent; accredited trade school, college or university may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience. One year of work experience is equivalent to thirty (30) semester hours of coursework from an accredited trade school, college or university. BS Degree in Electrical Engineering, with emphasis on computer controlled building systems is desirable.

Prior Work Experience: Minimum of three to five (3-5) years experience as an Electrical Controls Technician with digital building control system knowledge is required. A minimum of 3 years of experience must be with large, modern, commercial or Government office building in operations and maintenance. Knowledge of U.S. building, trade, construction, fire, and safety codes and standards are highly desirable.

Post Entry Training: Position may require individual to travel TDY for the purpose of receiving on the job training to become familiar with mission maintenance operations. Training to operate Work Order for Windows will be provided. Vendor sponsored controls training will be sought. Training plans will be coordinated by the Facility Manager and Post Management. Additional available training includes the following: FSI (Foreign Service Institute)/On Site: PA522 Building Automation Systems;

PA523 - HVAC Building Automation Fundamentals for Building Managers; PA524 - Electrical Power Generation for Facility Managers and Distance Learning: PA296 - How to be a Contracting Officer's Representative; PA438 - Web.PASS Work Order for Windows; and PA526 - ProjNet SM Facilitating Design and Construction Communication

Language Proficiency: Level III in both English and host country language written, and spoken proficiency required.

Knowledge: The incumbent shall possess job knowledge to include general computer literacy, basic math and the ability to use measurement tools needed to lay out and cut shaped, threaded, and joined materials. Must have a good working knowledge of building electrical control systems (structure and design), direct digital control technology, devices and control wiring. He or she must be familiar with international building, electrical codes to be able to perform installation, maintenance, and repair work to meet code requirements. A general knowledge of building systems and operations, electrical principles and theories, and familiarization of the proper use and hazards of chemical materials is needed. Knowledge of normal, standby, and emergency modes of utility, generator, automatic transfer switches and UPS power is

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required. Must be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office software (Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point etc) and other computer programs like AutoCAD.

Skills and Abilities: The incumbent shall have the skills and abilities in the following areas: testing electrical components and taking equipment readings with various meters, hand tools, power tools, and specialty tools to determine appropriate repairs. Must be able to use tools of the trade in order to install, troubleshoot and repair building electrical control automated systems and all associated devices. Additional skills include working with emergency standby generator systems; distinguishing frequencies and sounds, color codes and odors in the operation of equipment in order to troubleshoot for repairs. Must have substantial skill in comprehending engineering reports, specifications and related materials in English. Additional abilities include responding to emergency situations in an efficient and timely manner to effect immediate repairs; work in various adverse conditions such as tight or enclosed spaces, heights, and temperature extremes, indoors or outdoors to complete work assignments; communicate orally and in writing with co-workers, contractors and vendors to obtain and provide pertinent information. A driver’s license is required. Must have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to handle a large workload and multiple tasks. Must be organized.

POSITION ELEMENTS

Supervision Received: Incumbent receives general supervision from the Facility Manager or an assigned Supervising Engineer.

Supervision Exercised: Position may be required to supervise 2 staff electricians, trade helpers or others assigned to assist as necessary.

Available Guidelines: Department of State rules and regulations including the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), manufactures technical library, operations and maintenance manuals, equipment maintenance plans, and OBO technical guidelines including the Work Orders for Windows Training Guide.

Exercise of Judgment: Incumbent makes routine judgment decisions when repairing or troubleshooting equipment. Determines and implements the best course of action for providing a safe working environment for the Embassy/ Consulate staff and all visitors.

Authority to Make Commitments: Authority to make commitments on materials, specifications and designs as authorized by the Facility Manager or an assigned Supervising Engineer.

Nature, Level and Purpose of Contacts: He or she interacts with technicians, supervisors, customers, and subcontractors. Levels of contact with contractor shall be held at a minimum or otherwise as directed by Facility Manager.

Time Required to Perform Full Range of Duties after Entry into the Position: 6 to 8 months

SELECTION PROCESS


When fully qualified, US Citizen Eligible Family Members (USEFMs) and US Veterans are given preference. Therefore, it is essential that the candidate specifically address the required qualifications above in the application.

ADDITIONAL SELECTION CRITERIA

1. Management will consider nepotism/conflict of interest, budget, and residency status in determining successful candidacy.

2. Current employees serving a probationary period are not eligible to apply.

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3. Current Ordinarily Resident employees with an Overall Summary Rating of Needs Improvement or Unsatisfactory on their most recent Employee Performance Report are not eligible to apply.

4. Currently employed US Citizen EFMs who hold a Family Member Appointment (FMA) are ineligible to apply for advertised positions within the first 90 calendar days of their employment.

5. Currently employed NORs hired under a Personal Services Agreement (PSA) are ineligible to apply for advertised positions within the first 90 calendar days of their employment unless currently hired into a position with a When Actually Employed (WAE) work schedule.

TO APPLY

Interested candidates for this position must submit the following for consideration of the application:

1. Application for Employment as a Locally Employed Staff or Family Member (DS-174); or a current resume or curriculum vitae; plus

2. Candidates who claim US Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD-214 with their application. Candidates who claim conditional US Veterans preference must submit documentation confirming eligibility for a conditional preference in hiring with their application.

3. Any other documentation (e.g., essays, certificates, awards) that addresses the qualification requirements of the position as listed above.

If an applicant is submitting a resume or curriculum vitae, s/he must provide the following information equal to what is found on the Application for Employment.

Failure to do so will result in an incomplete application.

A. Position Title

B. Position Grade

C. Vacancy Announcement Number (if known)

D. Dates Available for Work

E. First, Middle, & Last Names as well as any other names used

F. Date and Place of Birth

G. Current Address, Day, Evening, and Cell phone numbers

H. U.S. Citizenship Status (Yes or No) & status of permanent U.S. Resident (Yes or No; if yes, provide number)

I. U.S. Social Security Number and/or Identification Number

J. Eligibility to work in the country (Yes or No)

K. Special Accommodations the Mission needs to provide

L. If applying for position that includes driving a U.S. Government vehicle Driver’s License Class /

Type

M. Days available to work

N. List any relatives or members of your household that work for the U.S. Government (include their Name, Relationship, & Agency, Position, Location)

O. U.S. Eligible Family Member and Veterans Hiring Preference

P. Education

Q. License, Skills, Training, Membership, & Recognition

R. Language Skills

S. Work Experience

T. References


SUBMIT APPLICATION TO

Human Resources Office

Attention: The Human Resources Officer

Vacancy Announcement No. 2011-17 6/8 June 21, 2011


Embassy of the United States Avenue des Etats Unis

B.P 1720 Bujumbura or

Email: BujumburaHR@state.gov

POINT OF CONTACT

Telephone: 22.207.263

CLOSING DATE FOR THIS POSITION: July 5, 2011


The US Mission in Bujumbura provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation. The Department of State also strives to achieve equal employment opportunity in all personnel operations through continuing diversity enhancement programs.

The EEO complaint procedure is not available to individuals who believe they have been denied equal opportunity based upon marital status or political affiliation. Individuals with such complaints should avail themselves of the appropriate grievance procedures, remedies for prohibited personnel practices, and/or courts for relief.