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This standard covers nonsupervisory work that primarily involves repairing and operating one or more utility systems (air conditioning, heating, water, wastewater, etc.). Such work requires the ability to start, stop, and regulate the utility or utilities for optimum efficiency and troubleshoot, maintain, and repair them. Work requires knowledge of user requirements and the locations and functions of all equipment in the system(s) and the repair procedures and specifications.
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-4742
This standard covers nonsupervisory work that primarily involves repairing and operating one or more utility systems (air conditioning, heating, water, wastewater, etc.). Such work requires the ability to start, stop, and regulate the utility or utilities for optimum efficiency and troubleshoot, maintain, and repair them. Work requires knowledge of user requirements and the locations and functions of all equipment in the system(s) and the repair procedures and specifications.
requirements for the predominant line of work. (See also job grading standards for maintenance mechanic and utility systems operator for mixed jobs not meeting the criteria for coverage under this standard, i.e., repairing and operating one or more utility systems.) UTILITY SYSTEMS REPAIRER-OPERATOR, GRADE 8 General: Grade 8 utility systems repairer-operators perform various tasks in connection with the repair and operation of utilities for Federal buildings or facilities. Typical work assignments include the performance of various checks, tests, adjustments, and troubleshooting tasks to determine the need for and the performance of repair and operation work. The skill and knowledge,
and also the skills and abilities of the employees. The examples are intended to show some of the more common combinations of work. If the highest level of work (without credit for shift responsibility) represents a single occupation (e.g., air conditioning equipment mechanic or wastewater treatment plant operator), the job should be titled, coded, and
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal utility systems repair and operating position
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Typical grades for Federal Wage System positions
A Utility Systems Repairer-Operator (WG-4742) repairs and operates multiple utility systems including HVAC, heating, water, and wastewater systems. They start, stop, and regulate utilities for optimum efficiency while troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing equipment.
WG-4742 positions are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Journeyman wages (WG-9/10) typically range $26-$40 per hour depending on locality. Annual earnings range $54,000-$83,000. Multi-skilled operators are highly valued.
WG-4742 requires knowledge of multiple utility systems. Qualifications include ability to operate HVAC, heating, and water systems; troubleshoot equipment problems; perform repairs; and understand user requirements and system functions throughout facilities.
Yes, military utilities experience directly qualifies. Seabee Utilitiesmen (UT), Army 12P (Prime Power Production), Air Force 3E1X1 (Heating, Ventilation, AC, Refrigeration), and shipboard engineering ratings provide directly relevant multi-system experience.
Utility Systems workers progress to journeyman (WG-9/10) and lead positions. Career paths include facilities management, plant operations, WG-4749 (Maintenance Mechanic) for broader building maintenance, or transition to GS facilities engineering roles.
Search USAJOBS for 'Utility Systems' or series '4742.' Positions exist at federal buildings, military installations, and VA facilities. Highlight your multi-system experience, troubleshooting skills, and certifications. Veterans receive preference.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.