FABRIC WORKER

Description:

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The primary purpose of this position is to provide all necessary repairs and fabrications to parachutes and other related airdrop equipment. The incumbent inspects, fabricates, assembles, modifies and repairs articles associated with cargo parachutes and other airdrop equipment. Also, disassembles, repairs, tests, troubleshoots, examines, inspects, fits, modifies

Requirements:

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-3100 Fabric and Leather Work Group. 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 ability to do the work of a FABRIC WORKER 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:
1. Knowledge of a variety of materials including most regularly used fabrics and materials such as wool, nylon, canvas, webbing, leather, vinyl, fiberglass, rubberized cloth, various threads, tapes, lines, and hardware.
2. Knowledge of arithmetic and fractions to calculate pattern measurements (e.g., cover measurements plus allowances for seams and pleats).
3. Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures.
4. Skill to lay out patterns with a number of pieces that must be matched; cut out parts from single or multiple layers of material; make adjustments to assembled articles to assure desired fit; determine necessary alterations; and make extensive alterations and repairs.
5. Ability to interpret patterns, drawings, and easily understood blueprints; determine the amount of fabric needed from patterns or samples, or by following dimensions in instructions and allowing for shrinkage and stitching; take measurements from parts where necessary and make simple patterns; and use a variety of measuring devices such as flexible measuring tapes, straight or curved rulers, protractors, compasses, dividers, squares, patterns, and templates, to take measurements and lay out dimensions.
6. Ability to operate, clean and perform operator maintenance on lightweight, medium, and heavy-duty sewing machines; and use such tools and equipment as wire brushes, drills, soldering irons, mallets, die sets, fabric cutters, and fabric welding machines.

Physical Effort:
Requires standing at worktables to measure, mark, and cut out materials; and sitting for long periods of time while operating sewing machines or doing hand sewing. Considerable stooping, bending, and kneeling, and continually uses arms, hands, and fingers in pulling and positioning materials, sewing, and using tools such as shears and electric knives is required. May occasionally work in cramped areas, on ladders and scaffolds, and overhead. Frequently lifts, drags and/or carries items that weigh 30 to 75 pounds, and occasionally lifts heavier items with assistance.

Working Conditions:
Work is usually performed in areas that are adequately lighted and ventilated. Subject to cuts, bruises, punctures, scratches, and other minor injuries or irritation from handling sharp tools and materials treated with special finishes. Dust and lint from fabrics and fumes and odors from glues, preservatives, and cleaners are sometimes present. Subject to noise from sewing machines. May work on ladders and scaffolds when hanging or installing completed items. Occasionally works outside. May be required to wear protective devices such as safety shoes and glasses, respirators, and machine guards.

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.