State of Maryland

An Octane Engine Operator I is the beginning, entry level of work in conducting tests on motor fuels to determine either the octane or cetane rating using a unique and very expensive test engine.  Employees in this classification receive on-the-job training in preparing reference fuel blends, adjust the test meters, the daily inspection of the test engine, the operation of the test engine to determine the proper bracket and knock characteristics and the recording of test results.  Employees in this classification perform only minor maintenance and repair of the test engine.  Employees in this classification also assist higher-level personnel in more detailed repair of the engine.  Employees in this classification must have sound judgment and assume the responsibility for the completion of routine tests using standards prescribed by the American Society for Testing Materials.  Employees in this classification are responsible for keeping accurate test results. Employees in this classification do not supervise other positions but may assist in the training of student trainees.

Employees in this classification receive close and direct supervision from of the Engine Laboratory Supervisor.

Positions in this classification are evaluated by using the classification job evaluation methodology.  The use of this method involves comparing the assigned duties and responsibilities of a position to the job criteria found in the Nature of Work and Examples of Work sections of the class specification.

Receives on-the-job training in the operation, preliminary maintenance and minor repair of an octane or cetane test engine;

Makes daily inspection of test engine;

Replaces spark plugs and breaker points;

Performs lubrication services for test engines;

Performs minor repair of test engine when required;

Assists more experienced operators in more detailed repair of test engines;

Prepares reference fuel blends in accordance with the American Society for Testing Materials specifications;

Keeps records of tests conducted;

May testify in court; 

Performs other related duties.

Knowledge, at the elementary level of understanding, of internal combustion engines;

Knowledge, at the elementary level of understanding, of the use of lubricants;

Knowledge, at the elementary level of understanding, of the use of measuring and timing engines;

Ability to learn the blending of fuels;

Ability to make detailed inspection of engines;

Ability to operate an octane or cetane test engine in accordance with instructions;

Ability to perform lubrication services and minor repair of test engines;

Ability to keep accurate records;

Ability to follow directions.

Education:   Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate and successful completion of an Automotive Mechanic, Aviation Mechanic or Heavy Equipment Mechanic course from a recognized military or civilian technical school.

Experience: None.

                                                                       OR            

Education:   Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.

Experience: One year of experience in the repair or maintenance of internal combustion engines.

Class specifications are broad descriptions covering groups of positions used by various State departments and agencies.  Position descriptions maintained by the using department or agency specifically address the essential job functions of each position.

This is a Skilled Service classification in the State Personnel Management System.  All positions in this classification are Skilled Service positions.  Some positions in Skilled Service classifications may be designated Special Appointment in accordance with the State Personnel and Pensions Article, Section 6-405, Annotated Code of Maryland.

This classification is not assigned to a bargaining unit, as indicated by the designation of S (Supervisor), M (Manager), T (Agency Head), U (Board or Commission Member), W (Student), X (Used by Agency or Excluded by Executive Order), or Z (Confidential).  As provided by State Personnel and Pensions Article, Section 3-102, special appointment, temporary, contractual, supervisory, managerial and confidential employees are excluded from collective bargaining.  Additionally, certain executive branch agencies are exempt from collective bargaining and all positions in those agencies are excluded from collective bargaining.

Employees in this classification are eligible to receive overtime compensation.  An employee who works more than the normal workweek is entitled to be compensated for that overtime as provided by State Personnel and Pensions Article, Section 8-305.

This classification is one level in a Non-Competitive Promotion (NCP) series.  NCP promotions are promotions by which employees may advance in grade and class level from trainee to full performance levels in a classification series.  In order to be non-competitively promoted to the next level in a NCP series, an employee must: 1) perform the main purpose of the class as defined in the Nature of Work section of the class specification; 2) receive the type of supervision defined in the class specification, and 3) meet the minimum qualifications of the classification.