TABLE OF CONTENTS FACTOR 4 ILLUSTRATIONS...55 FACTOR 5 ILLUSTRATIONS...62 PART III EXPLANATORY MATERIAL... 66

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1 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION... 2 COVERAGE...2 MODIFICATIONS TO OR CANCELLATIONS OF OTHER EXISTING OCCUPATIONAL SERIES AND STANDARDS...3 PART I OCCUPATIONAL INFORMATION... 4 GENERAL SERIES DETERMINATION GUIDELINES...4 DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN TECHNICAL AND TRADE, CRAFT, OR LABOR WORK...5 DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN TECHNICAL AND PROFESSIONAL WORK...6 OFFICIAL TITLING PROVISIONS...7 INFORMATION BY SERIES IN NUMBER ORDER...8 OCCUPATIONAL INFORMATION BY SERIES...9 ENGINEERING TECHNICAL, CONSTRUCTION CONTROL TECHNICAL, SURVEY TECHNICAL, ELECTRONICS TECHNICAL, MARINE SURVEY TECHNICAL, INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING TECHNICAL, IMPACT OF AUTOMATION...19 ADDITIONAL OCCUPATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS...20 CROSSWALK TO THE STANDARD OCCUPATIONAL CLASSIFICATION...23 PART II GRADING INFORMATION HOW TO USE THIS GRADING INFORMATION...25 GRADE CONVERSION TABLE...25 POSITION EVALUATION SUMMARY WORKSHEET...26 FACTOR LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS (FLDS)...27 FACTOR 1 KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION...27 FACTOR 2 SUPERVISORY CONTROLS...31 FACTOR 3 GUIDELINES...33 FACTOR 4 COMPLEXITY...35 FACTOR 5 SCOPE AND EFFECT...37 FACTOR 6 PERSONAL CONTACTS...39 FACTOR 7 PURPOSE OF CONTACTS...39 FACTOR 8 PHYSICAL DEMANDS...41 FACTOR 9 WORK ENVIRONMENT...42 FACTOR ILLUSTRATIONS...43 FACTOR 1 ILLUSTRATIONS...43 FACTOR 4 ILLUSTRATIONS...55 FACTOR 5 ILLUSTRATIONS...62 PART III EXPLANATORY MATERIAL U.S. Office of Personnel Management 1

2 INTRODUCTION This job family standard (JFS) provides series definitions, titling instructions, and grading criteria for nonsupervisory technical positions in the Engineering and Architecture Group, 0800, for General Schedule (GS) and other white collar pay plans. In the General Schedule position classification system established under chapter 51 of title 5, United States Code, the positions addressed here would be one-grade interval positions. This JFS is divided into three parts. Part I contains occupational information applicable to Federal work covered by the JFS without regard to pay plan or classification system. Part II provides the grading criteria for positions classified in accordance with GS grade definitions. Part III includes explanatory material about the development of this JFS. The term General Schedule or GS denotes the major position classification system and pay structure for white collar work in the Federal government. Agencies no longer subject to chapter 51 have replaced the GS pay plan indicator with agency-unique pay plan indicators. For that reason, reference to General Schedule or GS has been omitted from much of this JFS. Coverage This job family standard covers the following occupational series: Series Series Engineering Technical 0802 Electronics Technical 0856 Construction Control Technical 0809 Marine Survey Technical 0873 Survey Technical 0817 Industrial Engineering Technical 0895 U.S. Office of Personnel Management 2

3 Modifications to or Cancellations of Other Existing Occupational Series and Standards Issuance of this JFS renames, supersedes, or cancels occupational series and classification standards as described in the following table. Previous Series or Guidance Action Taken / How to Classify Work Previously Covered Engineering Technician 0802 Supersedes this classification standard, last revised in June Renames this series, Engineering Technical, Construction Control 0809 Supersedes this classification standard, last revised in February Renames this series, Construction Control Technical, Surveying Technician 0817 Supersedes this classification standard, last revised in October Renames this series, Survey Technical, Engineering Drafting 0818 Cancels this series. Cancels this classification standard, last revised in April Classify work previously covered by this series to the Engineering Technical Series, Electronics Technician 0856 Supersedes this classification standard, last revised in August Renames this series, Electronics Technical, Cancels the application of the Department of Transportation (DOT) Position Classification Guide for Electronics Technician Positions, GS-0856, dated December 1972 and revised in 1984, to evaluate positions covered by the Electronics Technical Series, Ship Surveying 0873 Renames this series, Marine Survey Technical, Industrial Engineering Technician 0895 Supersedes this classification standard, last revised in April Renames this series, Industrial Engineering Technical, U.S. Office of Personnel Management 3

4 PART I OCCUPATIONAL INFORMATION Part I is intended for use by all agencies in evaluating technical positions in the Engineering and Architecture Group, It provides series definitions, titling instructions, and detailed occupational information for this job family. General Series Determination Guidelines Selection of the correct series for a position is an essential part of the entire human resources management process for a variety of reasons. For example, qualification requirements used in recruiting are based on the series of the position; career ladders are influenced by the series; and organizational structure is often designed with consideration of the series of assigned positions. Determining the correct series for a position is usually apparent by reviewing the assigned duties and responsibilities and then comparing them to the series definitions and general occupational information the job family standard (JFS) provides. Generally, the series determination for a position is based on the primary work of the position, the highest level of work performed, and the paramount knowledge required to do the work of the position. Normally, it is fairly easy to make this decision. However, in other instances, determining the correct series may not be as obvious. Use the following guidelines to determine the predominant series when the work of a position matches more than one job family or occupational group. Also, when the work of a position falls into more than one series within this job family, it may be difficult to determine which particular series predominates. Apply the guidelines below in the order listed to determine the correct series. Paramount knowledge required. Although there may be several different kinds of work in the position, most positions will have a paramount knowledge requirement. The paramount knowledge is the most important type of subject matter knowledge or experience required to do the work. Reason for the position s existence. The primary purpose of the position or management s intent in establishing the position is a positive indicator for determining the appropriate series. Organizational mission and/or function. Positions generally align with the mission and function of the organization to which they are assigned. The organization s function is often mirrored in the organizational title and may influence the appropriate series. Recruitment source. Supervisors and managers can help by identifying the occupational series providing the best qualified applicants to do the work. This is closely related to the paramount knowledge required. Although the work of some positions may require applying practical engineering or related knowledge and skills, classification as technical positions in the Engineering and Architecture Group, 0800, may not be appropriate. The Additional Classification Considerations section of this JFS provides examples where the work may involve applying related knowledge and skills, but not to the extent it warrants classification to this job family. Additional information may be found in The Classifier s Handbook. U.S. Office of Personnel Management 4

5 Distinguishing Between Technical and Trade, Craft, or Labor Work Determining the appropriate occupational category is one of the first decisions to make when classifying a position. This decision is based on the position description or other official record of duties and responsibilities assigned to a position or group of positions. To fully understand the position it is important to consider such factors as the position s primary duty or responsibility, its primary purpose or reason for existence, relationship to other positions, the mission and responsibility of the organization in which it is located, and the essential, requisite qualifications required to do the work. Technical Work Involves: developing and designing test and repair equipment, analyzing repair practices, or developing procedural instructions on methods and steps of equipment repairs; developing maintenance standards and procedures, testing and evaluating new or modified systems, or analyzing the compatibility of interlocking components and systems; planning and directing the installation of complex systems and associated facilities, particularly where there are problems of site selection and construction; designing and analyzing circuits, determining feasibility of these designs, evaluating equipment performance under varying environmental conditions, collecting data, or designing or modifying designs to achieve performance and cost objectives; and developing or evaluating new or modified systems or monitoring frequency emissions by licensed stations. Trade, Craft, or Labor Work Involves: repairing systems and equipment to include detecting and diagnosing malfunctions, tearing down equipment, repairing or replacing parts or components, or aligning, calibrating and testing the modified or repaired equipment; performing preventive and corrective maintenance to keep equipment and systems in reliable condition; installing equipment in accordance with plans, specifications, and detailed instructions, or reinstalling repaired or modified systems; fabricating electronic equipment in accordance with plans, specifications, and instructions including constructing, assembling, arranging, mounting, or wiring electronic parts and components; and making measurements to diagnose malfunctions to ensure equipment operates within prescribed standards. Additional information on distinguishing between technical and trade, craft, or labor work can be found in the Introduction to the Electronic Equipment Installation and Maintenance Family, U.S. Office of Personnel Management 5

6 Distinguishing Between Technical and Professional Work It is important to determine whether a position is comprised of technical or professional work. It is not always easy to differentiate between the two because some tasks are common to both. The developmental work of professional positions and the demanding work of high level technical positions are sometimes similar. Typical distinctions between technician and professional engineering and architecture work follow. Technical Work Involves: using recurring methods, standardized procedures, and established processes for a specialized engineering field; applying knowledge acquired through practical experience and on-the-job activities in the recognized processes, standards, methods, and their corresponding engineering principles and results; understanding and applying predetermined procedures, methods, and standardized practices or approaches in a specialized field of engineering; carrying out tasks, methods, procedures, and computations based on oral instructions and/or precedents, guidelines, and standards; collecting, observing, testing, and recording factual engineering data within the oversight and management of professional employees; foreseeing the effects of procedural changes or appraising the validity of results on the basis of experience and practical reasoning; and staying abreast of existing and new practical methods and applications through on-the-job and classroom training. Professional Work Involves: creating, exploring, evaluating, and sharing solutions for engineering or architectural problems, conditions, and issues; applying a range and depth of knowledge acquired specifically through an intensive learning regimen of the phenomena, theories, and assumptions of an engineering or architectural body of knowledge; understanding theories, concepts, and principles, and their relationships underlying the practices of engineering or architecture; identifying, analyzing, advising, consulting, and reporting on scientific, theoretical, and factual data, conditions, and problems; assessing, resolving, and predicting the relationships and interactions of data and findings under varying conditions; reasoning from existing knowledge and assumptions in a professional field to unexplored areas and phenomena; and staying abreast of and evaluating scientific subjects, analyses, and proposals in professional literature. U.S. Office of Personnel Management 6

7 Official Titling Provisions Title 5, United States Code, requires the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to establish the authorized official position titles. These include a basic title (e.g., Industrial Engineering Technician) and may be appended with one or more prefixes and/or suffixes. Agencies must use the official position titles for human resources management, budget, and fiscal purposes. Instructions for assigning official position titles are provided in this section. Supervisors and Leaders Add the prefix Supervisory to the basic title when the agency classifies the position as supervisory. If the position is covered by the General Schedule refer to the General Schedule Supervisory Guide for additional titling and grading information. Add the prefix Lead to the basic title when the agency classifies the position as leader. If the position is covered by the General Schedule refer to the General Schedule Leader Grade Evaluation Guide for additional titling and grading information. Parenthetical Titles In this JFS only one series, Engineering Technician, 0802, has a prescribed parenthetical title. For other series in this standard, agencies may supplement the titles authorized in this standard with agency-established parenthetical titles if necessary for recruitment or other human resources needs. Organizational Titles Organizational and functional titles do not replace, but rather complement, official position titles. Agencies may establish organizational and functional titles for internal administration, public convenience, program management, or similar purposes. Examples of organizational titles are Branch Chief and Division Chief. Examples of functional titles are Chief of Operations and Chief of Policy Development. BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS U.S. Office of Personnel Management 7

8 INFORMATION BY SERIES IN NUMBER ORDER Engineering Technical, 0802 Series Definition Titling Occupational Information Construction Control Technical, 0809 Series Definition Titling Occupational Information Survey Technical, 0817 Series Definition Titling Occupational Information Electronics Technical, 0856 Series Definition Titling Occupational Information Marine Survey Technical, 0873 Series Definition Titling Occupational Information Industrial Engineering Technical, 0895 Series Definition Titling Occupational Information U.S. Office of Personnel Management 8

9 Occupational Information by Series ENGINEERING TECHNICAL, 0802 Qualification Standard Series Definition This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing work involving applying a practical knowledge of the: methods and techniques of engineering or architecture; and construction, application, properties, operations, and limitations of engineering systems, processes, structures, machinery, devices, and materials. The basic title for positions under the General Schedule at grade 3 and below is Engineering Aid. The basic title for other positions in this occupation is Engineering Technician. In addition to the basic title, the following parenthetical titles may be used: Aerospace Architecture Chemical Civil Drafting Work concerned with aerospace vehicles, systems, phenomena, and structures. Work concerned with buildings or land areas and requiring practical knowledge of architecture or landscape architecture. Work concerned with processes, plants, equipment, and methods for the production of chemical products or changes in the chemical composition or physical state of materials. Work concerned with buildings, structures, dams, soil mechanics, tunnels, highways, water resources, bridges, airports, railways, and other phases of civil engineering. Work concerned with portraying engineering and architectural ideas and information through drawings. Drafting assignments require comprehension of the detailed characteristics of the item being designed and association with accepted design practices. Titling Electrical Work concerned with systems, plants, equipment, and materials for the generation, transmission, conversion, distribution, control, measurement, or utilization of electrical energy. Work involving the design of electronic installations is included when the work does not require knowledge of electronics to the extent required by the Electronics Technician Series, Materials Mechanical Mining Naval Architecture Nuclear Petroleum Work concerned with the properties, characteristics, and use of engineering materials. Work concerned with systems, plants, machines, equipment, and instruments for the generation, transmission, measurement, or utilization of heat or mechanical power. Included are steam and internal combustion power plants, automotive and ordnance equipment and components, heating and air conditioning, piping, machine tools, and instruments and controls. Work concerned with the discovery and extraction of solid fuels, ores, and minerals. Work concerned with the form, strength, stability, performance, and operational characteristics of ships. Work concerned with the design, installation, testing, and operation of nuclear reactors, nuclear power plants, and other nuclear systems. Work concerned with the discovery, development, production, and conservation of petroleum, natural gas, or helium. (continued) U.S. Office of Personnel Management 9

10 ENGINEERING TECHNICAL, 0802 (continued) Occupational Information General Occupational Information Engineering technicians work in a variety of unique work situations, often aligned with professional engineering and architecture fields and each with a fairly distinct set of knowledge and skill requirements. The work involves functions such as research, development, design, evaluation, construction, inspection, production, application, standardization, testing, or operation of engineering facilities, structures, systems, processes, equipment, devices, or materials. Basic knowledge and skills are transferable from one specialization to another. The positions do not require professional knowledge and abilities for full performance and therefore do not require training equivalent in type and scope to that represented by completing a professional curriculum leading to a bachelor s degree in engineering or architecture. BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS U.S. Office of Personnel Management 10

11 CONSTRUCTION CONTROL TECHNICAL, 0809 Qualification Standard Series Definition This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing work involving on-site inspection of construction or monitoring and control of construction operations. Positions in this occupation require applying: practical knowledge of engineering methods and techniques; knowledge of construction practices, methods, techniques, costs, materials, and equipment; and ability to read and interpret engineering and architectural plans and specifications. The basic title for positions under the General Schedule at grade 3 and below is Construction Aid. Titling The basic titles for other positions in this occupation are Construction Control Inspector and Construction Control Representative. Construction Control Inspector applies to positions involving primarily on-site inspection of construction for compliance with plans and specifications. Construction Control Representative applies to positions involving monitoring and control of construction operations. General Occupational Information Construction control inspector positions deal primarily with reviewing materials, work methods, and workmanship to ensure each part of the structure is built in accordance with the plans and specifications. They: Occupational Information review and become familiar with the construction plans and specifications; inspect all electrical, mechanical, civil, and architectural materials and equipment delivered to the construction site to ensure they meet specifications; observe work and work methods to ensure the structure is being built in accordance with the plans and acceptable work practices; inspect work in progress and upon completion to ensure an acceptable level of workmanship; interview contractor employees to ensure labor laws and regulations are observed; observe worksite and work activity to ensure safety standards are maintained; and maintain a daily log of the project, recording facts concerning work activity, workforce, equipment in use, inspection activities, accidents, visitors, weather conditions, and unusual happenings. Construction control representative positions ensure adequate inspection and also control or monitor construction operations. They: review project plans and specifications prior to contract advertisement to determine practicability from a construction standpoint, whether physical obstructions or other construction difficulties have been anticipated, and whether materials specified are readily available; attend pre-bid and pre-construction conferences to inform contractor of requirements concerning construction scheduling, progress reporting, safety measures, wage and hour law observance, labor relations, and payroll records; and supervise site surveys, set stakes to mark pertinent features, and investigate foundation and borrow pits. BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS U.S. Office of Personnel Management 11

12 SURVEY TECHNICAL, 0817 Qualification Standard Series Definition Titling This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing work involving the application of technical knowledge in surveying methods. This includes the use of computerized and electronic equipment and systems, and techniques to measure or determine distances, elevations, areas, angles, land boundaries, and other features of the earth s surface. Specifically included are topographic, hydrographic, geodetic, land, control, and construction surveying. The basic title for positions under the General Schedule at grade 3 and below is Survey Aid. The basic title for other positions in this occupation is Survey Technician. General Occupational Information Survey technicians support a variety of programs and activities, such as: planning, designing, and constructing dams, roads, bridges, buildings, or facilities requiring related site, route, and location surveys, construction inspection surveying, etc.; establishing reference points (e.g., triangulation stations, benchmarks, monuments) for surveying and mapping purposes; collecting field data for use in compiling navigational charts and topographic maps; and land surveying to establish or locate boundaries. Occupational Information Survey technicians select known survey reference points and determine the precise location of important features in the survey area. They: research legal records and previous boundaries, and analyze the data to determine official land and water boundaries or boundary line locations; record survey results, verify data accuracy, and prepare plots, maps, and reports; write descriptions of land for deeds, leases, and other legal documents; and measure construction and mineral sites. Survey work requires the highly proficient operation of instruments and the application of techniques to obtain the required skill and accuracy. Many of the techniques and procedures used in surveys of various types are applied almost universally. Much surveying practice is standardized as this facilitates rigid control where it is needed. However, agencies and installations may develop other survey techniques and practices for use in specialized types of surveys. In some instances, procedures must be adapted in the field to get desired results under the encountered conditions, such as difficult terrain, weather, obstructed vision, time requirements, etc. Often surveying projects are carried out by teams comprised of instrument personnel and helpers and are managed by a land surveyor or a senior survey technician ( Chief-of-Party ), who plans the fieldwork. These survey teams measure distances, directions, and angles between points and point elevation, lines, and contours on, above, and below the earth s surface. They provide data relevant to the shape, contour, location, elevation, or dimension of land or land features. For many projects, survey technicians use the Global Positioning System (GPS), a satellite system that precisely locates points on the earth by using radio signals transmitted via satellite. To use this system, a survey technician places a satellite signal receiver (a small instrument mounted on a tripod) on a desired point. The receiver simultaneously collects information from several satellites to establish a precise position. The survey technician checks and verifies the results produced by new technology against previous surveys and resolves discrepancies. (continued) U.S. Office of Personnel Management 12

13 SURVEY TECHNICAL, 0817 (continued) Occupational Information (continued) The surveying instruments and procedures used in each survey are selected to attain a required level of accuracy and completeness. Instrument and procedure refinement and selection are directly dependent upon this requirement, which is usually defined in terms of order of accuracy of the survey. There are four orders of accuracy, ranging in decreasing stringency, from the first order to the fourth. The order of accuracy, which defines the general accuracy of the measurements made in a survey, is a factor in evaluating positions engaged in precise construction surveys and positions engaged in geodetic or other basic control surveys. The positions require specialized knowledge and skill to make precise measurements, or to attain the required first or second order of accuracy. For other types of surveys involving highly precise electronic instruments, the order of accuracy is of limited significance. BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS U.S. Office of Personnel Management 13

14 ELECTRONICS TECHNICAL, 0856 Qualification Standard Series Definition This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing work involving applying: knowledge of the techniques and theories characteristic of electronics, such as a knowledge of basic electricity and electronic theory, algebra, and elementary physics; knowledge of electronic equipment design, development, evaluation, testing, installation, and maintenance; and knowledge of the capabilities, limitations, operations, design, characteristics, and functional use of a variety of types and models of electronic equipment and systems related to, but less than, a full professional knowledge of electronic engineering. Titling The basic title for positions under the General Schedule at grade 3 and below is Electronics Aid. The basic title for other positions in this occupation is Electronics Technician. General Occupational Information Electronic equipment may be used in the fields of communication, television, telemetry, radar, radio, sonar, medical equipment, computers, and many others. The fundamental electronic components of the systems and devices used in each field are the same. When technicians develop, test, or perform other work on an unfamiliar piece of electronic equipment they apply their knowledge of electronic theory, circuit design, and the operating characteristics of more familiar equipment. They refer to diagrams, troubleshooting procedures, operating guides, and technical literature; seek information from other technicians and from engineers; and may take manufacturers training courses to become more familiar with the equipment. This ability to apply general knowledge of electronics and to transfer experience and knowledge from one kind of equipment to another characterizes electronics technicians. Occupational Information Electronic equipment may work perfectly in the laboratory or under test conditions; however, external factors, such as interconnection with other devices, geographical and climatic conditions, and interference from other electronic equipment, may have an unforeseen effect on its functioning. As a result, electronics technicians develop knowledge about of how external forces affect the functioning of electronic devices and what methods may have been used successfully to correct such problems in similar circumstances. Electronics technicians assist in many work situations including: Maintenance. Developing maintenance standards and procedures for use by others. Analyzing repair practices and developing procedural instructions for use by others on methods and steps to repair equipment. Installation. Planning and directing the installation of complex systems and associated facilities, particularly where there are site selection and construction problems, dealings with contractors and public utilities, and the possible need to modify equipment for novel site characteristics. Fabrication. Designing and analyzing circuits, determining design feasibility, evaluating equipment performance under varying environmental conditions, and collecting performance data. Designing or modifying designs to achieve performance and cost objectives. Evaluating the adequacy of equipment for such purposes as repair, calibration, and testing. Testing and Evaluation/Research and Development. Developing or evaluating new or modified electronic systems. Completing testing, evaluating data, and determining acceptability of equipment modifications, validity, test procedures and data, or legality of operation. Technicians support professional engineers in performing experiments, research, and developmental activities requiring an in-depth knowledge of technical engineering methods, applications, practices, and principles to work on concepts, prototypes, and experimental projects that are without precedent and support state-of-the-art research. (continued) U.S. Office of Personnel Management 14

15 Electronics Technical, 0856 (continued) Occupational Information (continued) Sustainment. Developing, performing, evaluating, or modifying calibration and test equipment, systems, and procedures. Reporting, analyzing, and archiving test data. Performing complex calculations and manipulations of test data to improve performance of systems, instrumentation, measurement standards, techniques, and procedures. Troubleshooting. Analyzing and diagnosing faults in the operational configuration of electronic systems and equipment. Interpreting circuit wiring, logic cable diagrams, drawings, specifications, and schematics of complete systems and equipment to understand the function and interconnections of the various assemblies and troubleshoot the system. BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS U.S. Office of Personnel Management 15

16 MARINE SURVEY TECHNICAL, 0873 Qualification Standard Series Definition This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing work involving surveying Governmentowned and/or operated vessels, or privately-owned and operated merchant vessels, to determine their condition and the extent of work necessary for the vessels and their components to meet specified requirements. The work requires applying a practical knowledge of: preparing specifications, including estimates of labor and material costs, to cover work determined to be necessary as a result of surveys; and inspecting and accepting the work accomplished to place the vessel in the condition specified. Titling The basic title for positions under the General Schedule at grade 3 and below is Marine Survey Aid. The basic title for other positions in this series is Marine Surveyor. General Occupational Information A marine surveyor: surveys and inspects vessels to classify, appraise, and determine general conditions and fitness for operation; inspects vessels to ensure vessels and components meet crew and passenger safety regulations; assesses and approves safety reports and plans; determines the extent of damage sustained and type and cost of repairs and reconditioning required; inspects and accepts work accomplished to place the vessel in the specified condition; and prepares a variety of detailed reports. Occupational Information Marine surveyors ensure compliance with Government maritime classifications, professional society guidelines, and international maritime regulations. Surveys are conducted for a variety of reasons, and the procedures employed vary depending on the intent of the survey. The most common are: Pre-purchase or acquisition surveys. These are the most comprehensive inspections, and are to determine condition and overall vessel operation. This includes: structural integrity and cosmetic appearance; navigational, electrical, propulsion, and fuel systems; electronics; other machinery and overall maintenance; and frequently includes an out-of-water inspection and a sea trial. Condition and value or insurance surveys. These in-depth inspections are usually performed to determine whether the vessel is an acceptable risk. These surveys focus on structural integrity and safety for the vessel s intended usage and generally include a determination of the vessel s fair market value. Appraisal inspections. These inspections are performed to gather sufficient information to justify or determine the fair market value of a vessel and are normally needed for financial or legal reasons. Damage inspections. These inspections are performed to assess the extent of damage, recommend repairs, estimate repair cost, and if requested, determine possible cause. U.S. Office of Personnel Management 16

17 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING TECHNICAL, 0895 Qualification Standard Series Definition This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing technical work related to industrial engineering. Industrial engineering technicians plan, design, analyze, improve, and install work systems comprised of employees, materials, and equipment, for use in producing products, rendering services, repairing equipment, or moving and storing supplies and equipment. The work typically involves studies of engineered time standards, methods engineering, layout designs of work centers, control systems, materials handling, or manpower utilization. The work requires knowledge of, and skill in applying, the principles and techniques of industrial engineering and practical knowledge of pertinent industrial and related work processes, facilities, methods, and equipment. Titling The basic title for positions under the General Schedule at grade 3 and below is Industrial Engineering Aid. The basic title for other positions in this series is Industrial Engineering Technician. Occupational Information General Occupational Information Industrial engineering technicians advise management in the areas of: planning and organizing effective organizations, standards, methods, systems, procedures, work flow, materials handling, and cost and control systems; facilities layout arranging machines, equipment, processes, and service areas into efficient and economical operating systems; plant design designing new buildings or altering existing buildings to provide for new or improved processes and functions; industrial production planning evaluating requirements for items to be produced, advising on production capability of contractors and Government-owned facilities, and production planning, to include systems, machinery, equipment, products, work methods, procedures, and standards; or industrial standards evaluating systems for reliability based on statistical control charts, acceptance sampling, and process capability analysis. Industrial engineering programs are found primarily in industrial establishments, such as shipyards, ordnance plants, arsenals, and aircraft overhaul and repair facilities. Programs of this type are also found in supply depots, research and development centers, and public works organizations. Industrial engineering involves applying scientific methods in systematic studies of the organization and the accomplishment and improvement of work efforts. Studies typically involve planning, fact-finding, analyzing and evaluating data, reaching conclusions, preparing recommendations, gaining acceptance, and installing changes. The techniques applied are based largely on the mathematical, statistical, and engineering concepts of contemporary industrial management. These studies determine more economical and efficient ways to produce products or render services. Effective utilization of available resources is a primary objective. Work assignments of industrial engineering technicians may range from simple data collection in a limited phase of a study to responsibility for a major phase of an overall study, such as preproduction development of work methods for the manufacturing of a prototype model. More typical are assignments in which the technician specializes in one or more phases of industrial engineering work, such as establishing engineered time standards, conducting method improvement studies, or designing work center layouts. A technician engaged in establishing engineered time standards determines the time required by a qualified worker to accomplish a given task or operation, in accordance with specified methods, when working at a normal pace, using the allowed amount of personal time, and without lost time. In undertaking such a study, the technician determines the techniques to be used to gather data and set the standard. The assignment determines essential elements in the work process and assigns time values. (continued) U.S. Office of Personnel Management 17

18 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING TECHNICAL, 0895 (continued) Occupational Information (continued) A technician engaged in methods improvement or methods engineering analyzes each element in the work process to eliminate unnecessary motions and determine the most efficient and economical method of accomplishing a given task or operation. The technician engaged in such work studies the current work processes and pertinent data and may use many time study techniques. The technician reviews or prepares layout drawings and process charts. A technician engaged in layout studies builds the work center layout around standardized work methods and the comfort and safety of the operator who will use those work methods. Implementing new methods often requires altering and redesigning equipment to facilitate easy movement and to encourage use of correct methods. Regardless of the functional activity, industrial engineering technicians characteristically prepare comprehensive written reports containing their recommendations and supporting data. They participate in marketing their ideas for change to management. Even those who specialize in a single phase of industrial engineering are systems-oriented. They plan, design, improve, analyze, and install integrated systems of personnel, materials, and equipment. The various parts combine to create an integrated work system. BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS U.S. Office of Personnel Management 18

19 Impact of Automation Automation and computer technologies affect the way work is accomplished. Technicians use computers and computer assisted equipment to perform a wide variety of tasks. Positions in the technical engineering field use specialized computer devices, such as Automated Test Equipment (ATE), the Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographic Imaging System (GIS), as well as Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD). They interface computer controlled machinery with equipment. The technicians use computers to initiate and track multiple projects; research and obtain up-to-date data; and generate drawings, reports, and proposals to accomplish work. Data are entered, stored, and retrieved in multiple formats. Technicians use the Internet to search for information pertaining to assignments. Although employees in this group use computers to perform basic work processes, knowledge of the rules and processes to perform the work remains the paramount subject matter knowledge required. The kind of automation tools involved and the skill required to use them, generally replace or supplement work methods and techniques previously performed through manual or machine-enhanced processes. These positions may require knowledge of the applications of information technology (IT) to the assignment area and skill in the use of IT software and hardware systems, but the positions are not directly involved in developing, delivering, or supporting IT systems, applications, and services. In many cases, an employee with advanced knowledge and skill in the use of IT systems may be regarded as the IT expert in the immediate organization and relied upon by other employees for limited technical advice and assistance in applying IT systems to the assignment area. Although computers are used to facilitate work within this job family, the use of automation does not change the primary purpose of the work. Proper classification of positions within this and other technical occupations is based on the relevant knowledge and skills required to perform the primary duties of the position in this instance, those duties related to engineering projects, facilities, structures, systems, processes, equipment, devices, or methods. U.S. Office of Personnel Management 19

20 Additional Occupational Considerations Some positions may include technical work requiring knowledge and skills typically associated with the Engineering and Architecture Group, 0800T. In some cases, a closer look at the work may reveal classification to a series in this job family may not always be appropriate. The General Series Determination Guidelines section of this JFS offers guidance on selecting the most appropriate series. The following table provides examples of work similar to that performed in the 0800T job family, but not to the extent that the paramount knowledge required, the reason for the position s existence, the mission and/or function of the organization, and the recruitment source for the best qualified candidates would warrant classification to a series in this JFS. See This Standard or If Work Involves... Series Definition: Clerical and technical work in support of management operations including planning, coordinating, or evaluating the logistical actions required to support a specified program or mission with little or no need for knowledge of engineering principles and techniques. Technical work in the methods and techniques of soil, water, and environmental conservation as related to agricultural operations and land use measures. Professional work in: applying the art and science of architecture; and/or applying engineering theories, concepts, principles, standards, and methods. Applying practical knowledge of architectural design and construction practices in examining plans and specifications for standards compliance. Applying artistic ability and using conventional art media in the layout and execution of life-like illustrations or realistic representations. Drafting charts, diagrams, floor plans, office forms, and other graphic depictions of statistical, administrative, or related data rather than of engineering or architectural data. Inspecting the construction, assembly, modification, conversion, overhaul, or repair of vessels, or inspection involved in the procurement of vessels, chiefly to assure compliance with contracts, plans, and specifications. Reviewing and controlling construction contracts primarily to protect the Government from a business, financial, or legal standpoint rather than the technical aspects of construction. Planning, estimating, scheduling, and expediting the combined use of labor, machines, and materials in specific manufacturing operations employing mechanical or automated production systems and methods. (continued) 0344, Management and Program Clerical and Assistance 0458, Soil Conservation Technician Appropriate professional series within the 0800, Engineering and Architecture Group 0828, Construction Analyst 1020, Illustrating 1021, Office Drafting 1101, General Business and Industry 1102, Contracting 1152, Production Control U.S. Office of Personnel Management 20

21 If Work Involves Technical work in applying practical knowledge of the methods and techniques of one or more areas of physical science (e.g., chemistry, oceanography, hydrology, physics). Technical work in compiling, drafting, and editing maps and charts or representing geographic or navigational information. Professional work in applying the principles and techniques of geodesy to determine the size and shape of the earth and its gravitational field. Professional work in establishing, investigating, and reestablishing land and property boundaries and preparing plats and legal descriptions for tracts of land. Reducing, computing, compiling, and presenting quantitative data requiring the use of mathematical techniques in connection with engineering work. Operating and maintaining Federal buildings, grounds, and other facilities; or collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and developing specialized information about equipment and equipment maintenance programs and techniques. Advising on, or performing, administrative or technical work concerned with the quality assurance or inspection of materials, facilities, and processes. Applying analytical processes to planning, designing, and implementing information systems to meet customer or organizational requirements. (continued) See This Standard or Series Definition: 1311, Physical Science Technician or other appropriate series within the JFS for Technical Work in the Physical Sciences Group, , Cartographic Technician or other appropriate series within the JFS for Technical Work in the Physical Sciences Group, , Geodesy or other appropriate series within the JFS for Professional Work in the Physical Sciences Group, , Land Surveying or other appropriate series within the JFS for Professional Work in the Physical Sciences Group, , Mathematics Technician 1640, Facility Operations Services or other appropriate series within the JFS for Administrative Work in the Equipment, Facilities, and Services Group, 1600 Appropriate series within the Quality Assurance, Inspection, and Grading Group, 1900 JFS for Administrative Work in the Information Technology Group, 2200 U.S. Office of Personnel Management 21

22 If Work Involves Federal Wage System knowledge of maintaining, repairing, calibrating, and certifying electronic test, measurement, and reference equipment used for precise measurement of a variety of electrical and electronic values, quantities, and relationships, such as voltage, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and inductance. Federal Wage System knowledge of assembling, fabricating, overhauling, installing, maintaining, and repairing various fixed, semi-fixed, ground, airborne, and marine electronic equipment. Federal Wage System knowledge of repairing, troubleshooting, calibrating, and testing of electronic digital computer systems and their components and peripheral devices when used for scientific engineering or administrative computation or recordkeeping; includes repairing and maintaining computer subsystems and/or components. Federal Wage System knowledge of rebuilding, overhauling, installing, troubleshooting, repairing, modifying, calibrating, aligning, and maintaining integrated systems (i.e., where the output of a number of sensor subsystems is integrated in a logic subsystem and the resultant is used to modify the operation of a total system). Federal Wage System knowledge of repairing and calibrating a variety of instruments containing electric, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and/or electronic components. Federal Wage System knowledge of setting up, operating, and adjusting nondestructive test equipment, and evaluating or interpreting test readings or results. Federal Wage System knowledge of installing, maintaining, overhauling, repairing, and testing a variety of medical and dental equipment when such work requires a supplemental knowledge of basic human physiology. See This Standard or Series Definition: 2602, Electronic Measurement Equipment Mechanic 2604, Electronics Mechanic 2608, Electronic Digital Computer Mechanic 2610, Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic 3359, Instrument Mechanic 3705, Nondestructive Testing 4805, Medical Equipment Repairing U.S. Office of Personnel Management 22

23 Crosswalk to the Standard Occupational Classification The Office of Management and Budget requires all Federal agencies to use the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system for statistical data reporting purposes. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) uses SOC for the National Compensation Survey and other statistical reporting. OPM and other Federal agencies maintain a crosswalk between OPM authorized occupational series and the SOC codes to serve this need. These SOC codes and this requirement have no effect on the administration of any Federal human resources management system. The information in this table is for information only and has no direct impact on classifying positions covered by this job family standard. The SOC codes shown here generally apply only to nonsupervisory positions in these occupations. As changes occur to the SOC codes, OPM will update this information. More information about SOC is available at Federal Occupational Series and Position Titles and Their Related Standard Occupational Classification System Codes Occupational Series Standard Occupational Classification Code Based on Occupational Series Position Title Standard Occupational Classification Code Based on Position Title Engineering Technical, Engineering Technicians, except Drafters Engineering Technician Engineering Technicians, except Drafters (continued) Engineering Technician (Aerospace) Engineering Technician (Architecture) Engineering Technician (Chemical) Engineering Technician (Civil) Engineering Technician (Drafting) Engineering Technician (Electrical) Engineering Technician (Materials) Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians Engineering Technicians, except Drafters, All Other Engineering Technicians Except Drafters, All Other Civil Engineering Technicians Drafters, All Other Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians Engineering Technicians Except Drafters, All Other U.S. Office of Personnel Management 23