About this role
Job SummaryThe incumbent operates, maintains, and repairs a modern energy plant at the Seattle VHA.
QualificationsTo qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. EXPERIENCE: A specific length of training and experience is not required, but you must show evidence of training or experience of sufficient scope and quality of your ability to do the work of this position. Evidence which demonstrates you possess the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position must be supported by detailed descriptions of such on your resume. Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards. SCREEN-OUT ELEMENT: Your qualifications will first be evaluated against the prescribed screen out element, which usually appears as question 1 in the on-line questionnaire. Those applicants who appear to possess at least the minimal acceptable qualification requirement are considered for further rating; those who do not are rated ineligible and are eliminated. The potential eligibles are then rated against the remainder of the Job Elements: Dexterity and Safety Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair Interpret Instructions, Specifications (includes blueprint reading) Measuring Instruments Operation of Equipment/Machinery Technical Practices Without more than normal supervision Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment.
Major DutiesDuties include but are not limited to: Install valves, steam traps, regulators, floats, switches, relays, and automatic timers. Use Utility system trade tools such as pipe threaders, taps, dies, drill press, and gear/bearing pullers. Select appropriate instruments to be used in installation of utility system equipment Operate a modern steam plant. Operate a central control center. Operate utility system support systems and equipment. Troubleshooting and repair of steam plant equipment. Chemistry control of cooling tower water (open loop). Troubleshooting and repair of plant support equipment. Computer control of industrial chillers. Computer control of power boilers. Computer control of fire alarm/prevention system. Perform inspections, preventative, and corrective maintenance of utility systems. Maintain test equipment and instruments. Work Schedule: Monday-Sunday 12 hours, rotating for needs of the department Position Description Title/PD#: Utility Systems Operator/PD41781A Physical Requirements: The incumbent makes repairs or adjustments to equipment from ladders, platforms, and in cramped or hard-to-reach areas. This requires standing stooping, bending, climbing, and at times, being in uncomfortable or tiring positions. The incumbent may sustain bruises, cuts, burns, or other minor injuries.RequirementsYou must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this job Subject to a background/suitability investigation Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 A complete application package; including Resume, Transcripts, etc. is required Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.