The Utility Systems Repairer works within the Facilities Engineering Service at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. The MVAMC is one of the largest non-consolidated medical centers in the VA Health Care system, comprised of 48 buildings, over 2 million square feet, spread over two campuses. Work involves the operation and completion of maintenance repairs, preventive maintenance, inspections, station level projects and development/project management of contracted construction projects.

Duties

**** This is an Open Continuous Announcement until September 29, 2023. Qualified applicants will be considered and referred as vacancies become available. The complexity of the position is high, given the fact that the Utility Systems Repairer is expected to have a solid working knowledge and understanding of the concepts of all of the various disciplines that Facilities Engineering Service employs. Duties include but are not limited to: Routinely collects water samples, testing to ensure proper chemical balance and adds chemicals as necessary to the cooling towers, hydronic heating systems, chilled water loops and low pressure boilers. Troubleshoots the chemical injection systems in the event of detecting improper dosages of chemicals, per given quantity of medium to be treated. Keeps comprehensive logs that track types and amounts of chemicals expended, test results, observations and other pertinent information needed to ensure proper management of the chemical program of the VAMC. Inspect, troubleshoot and repair electric motors, chilled water pumps and shut-off or isolation valves throughout the Energy Center. Monitors Building Automation System control points to check operation of and troubleshoot defective fans, motors, air handlers, compressors, pumps, etc Repairs or replaces belts, motors, damper actuators, or control valves. Perform airflow adjustments of pneumatic or electronic variable air volume (VAV) boxes to correct cold or hot complaints. Check fire alarm panel during alarm events and perform minor troubleshooting and repair to correct system faults. Perform minor repairs to windows or doors and associated closer hardware, to ensure patient/employee safety concerns are immediately addressed, or NFPA standards are maintained at all times. Repairs leaks in pressurized potable water piping and sanitary drain piping, by re-torqueing loose fittings or replacing entire components. Replaces packing on leaking shut-off and isolation valves. Unplugs toilets, sinks, drinking fountains, bedpan hoppers, etc. Reset circuit breakers and replace fuses. Perform electrical safety inspections on patient beds, or miscellaneous appliances. Work Schedule: various shift available and to be discussed during interview process Position Description Title/PD#: Utility Systems Repairer/PD60717A Physical Requirements: Prolonged physical effort is not routine. Occasionally lifts objects over 50 lbs. Lifting equipment is provided for heavier objects. Some standing, stooping, bending, crawling and working on ladders (occasionally over operating equipment) is required. Working Conditions: Most work is performed indoors with adequate light and ventilation. Occasionally work is performed in areas of confined space. While working in the central boiler and chiller plant, exposure to temperatures in excess of 100F is common. Workers are also exposed to extreme temperature changes while working on outdoor cooling towers, roof exhausts and ventilating fans. The incumbent is subject to rotating machinery, grease, dirt, chemicals, oils and fumes. Noise level is often high and hearing protection is often required to prevent hearing loss. Other protective gear such as goggles, gloves and rubber aprons are required when working with chemicals, or performing various other tasks. Incumbent works a regular, rotating shift, to include nights, weekends and holidays to provide twenty-four hour, continuous shift coverage.

Requirements

• Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
• You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this job
• Subject to a background/suitability investigation
• Designated and/or random drug testing may be required
• May serve a probationary period
• Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
• A complete application package; Resume, Transcripts, etc.
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process

Qualifications

To 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: Equipment Assembly, Installation, RepairInterpret Instructions, Specifications (includes blueprint reading)MaterialsMeasuring InstrumentsTechnical PracticesUse and Maintain Tools and EquipmentWithout 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.

Education

There is no educational requirement for this position.

Contacts

• Address Minneapolis VA Medical Center One Veterans Drive Minneapolis, MN 55417 US
• Name: Tracy Casady
• Phone: 402-995-4028
• Email: [email protected]