TRACTOR OPERATOR (GARDENER)

In order to qualify, you must meet the quality level of experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C. QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Qualification Standard Handbook X-118C for the WG-5705-06 Tractor Operator (Gardener) position. Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most blue-collar positions, you must meet any screen-out element listed, and show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time. The screen out element for this position is the ability to do the work of a Tractor Operator (Gardener) without more than normal supervision. JOB ELEMENTS: Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: Knowledge of making connections from equipment to the tractor; and operating characteristics of tractor/equipment. Knowledge of safety practices, regulations, and procedures. Knowledge of seasonal gardening tasks, grounds maintenance, and how to apply fertilizer. Skill to judge clearance, heights, and turning angles of tractor and towed vehicles/equipment; operate tractors and manipulate equipment controls simultaneously; adjust equipment for various job requirements; and use and maintain hand and power tools, such as seeders, spreaders, edgers, hedge trimmers, pruning shears, etc. Ability to follow instructions, work orders, specifications, etc., and document actions taken. Ability to perform operator maintenance on tractors and associated equipment. PHYSICAL EFFORT: Physical effort is light to moderate. Exerts additional effort in operating equipment controls and making frequent arm and leg movements. The work requires frequent walking, standing, stooping, bending, reaching, climbing, and pushing carts and wheelbarrows. Frequently lifts and carries parts and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, and occasionally, moves heavier items with assistance. Occasionally, climbs ladders to prune or trim vegetation. WORKING CONDITIONS: Works primarily outside or in a greenhouse and is exposed to all kinds of weather conditions, vibrations, and jolts from the tractor and towed equipment. Exposed to chemical dust and sprays, dust, dirt, mud, grease, and/or fumes. May wear protective clothing such as gloves, safety shoes, and boots. Follows prescribed safety practices and uses safety equipment to avoid injury and possible hazards in the work area. Minor injuries may occur such as bruises, cuts and scrapes, and occasional possibility of broken bones from falls. PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Click on “Learn more about this agency” button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information. The primary purpose of this position is to operate farm-type tractors over level or rolling terrain to maintain road medians and grounds. The position requires seasonal gardening and grounds maintenance work.