This is an entry-level position is aligned under the Facilities Engineering Service at the Eastern Oklahoma VA Medical Center; Muskogee, OK. The Boiler Plant Operator Technical Career Field (TCF) training program consists of two years of specialized training to safely operate VA Boiler Plant equipment and controls. Trainees are trained for a challenging career as utility plant instrument and control technicians to possess the skills required for the maintenance and management of systems.

Duties

TCF is a national workforce development program within VHA that was designed to replenish technical staff in critically identified positions. The TCF career fields represent those technical fields where VA-specific knowledge and experience is desirable for success in the field. Individuals selected follow a formal training plan for 2 years during which they are trained, coached, and supervised by a preceptor. Preceptors are selected annually, through an extensive application process, for their technical expertise, their commitment to training and the suitability of their facility as a training location. *Selectees will be required to sign Mobility, Training, and Continued Service Agreements.* Under the direct supervision of Boiler Plant Manager/supervisor incumbent will gain knowledge in the basic theory of boiler operation, trade practices and skills in the operation and maintenance of boiler operations. Duties include, but are not limited to:

Requirements

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 08/07/2024. 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. Skills may have been gained in technical courses related to basic chemistry, basic electricity, small engine repair, HVAC training, etc., or in positions such as mechanic, electrical fields, or any of the trade fields. Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards. - Communication and interpersonal relations, including the ability to relate to internal and external customers appropriately and courteously. - Maintenance of confidentiality of patient/incumbent information, electronic and print. - The medical center performance improvement program. - How to work and function in the medical center in a safe manner, including infection control and the correct operation of equipment. 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: Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision Interpret Instructions, Specifications (other than blueprint reading) Operation of Equipment/Machinery Use of Measuring Instruments Ability to operate with dexterity and safety Technical Practices (theoretical, precise, artistic) 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. Position is a Trainee Developmental Target PD from dev PDs 13545-O (WG-5) and PD 13546-O (WG-8), to be promoted at Supervisor -discretion. Bargaining Unit 7777. WG-09 -PD 13547-O - Full Performance -Bargaining Unit 1272- to be promoted at Supervisor -discretion. For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/. Physical Requirements: Incumbent is frequently subject to very uncomfortable and possibly dangerous conditions. They must be in satisfactory physical and mental condition and fit for duty at all times. The incumbent works from ladders, scaffolding and hydraulic platforms. They often work in portions of the utility systems requiring attention that are cramped, dirty and hard-to-reach locations. The work may involve prolonged crouching and standing and frequent stooping, bending, kneeling, climbing, and working in exhausting and uncomfortable positions. The Incumbent must be capable accessing the water side and the fire box of the water tube boilers. The incumbent frequently lifts or carries tools, equipment, ladders, scaffolding, parts and supplies up to 50 pounds. Occasionally, the incumbent will be required to lift and carry items over 80 pounds. Working Conditions: Exposed to a full array of weather conditions. Subject to danger of falling when working from ladders or hydraulic lifts. Exposed to dust/dirt. Work is performed mostly in an operating boiler plant with some work outside. Work is often dirty, dusty, and greasy. The incumbent is subjected to such hazardous conditions as injury from power driven tools, falling from scaffolds and ladders, temperature extremes, noise, and bad weather conditions. The incumbent is frequently exposed to the possibilities of cuts, bruises, scratches, broken bones, and burns. They are subject to asbestos exposure and chemicals which can cause burns or irritation to the skin. Some duties may require incumbent to wear protective equipment and clothing that is heavy and uncomfortable. Preferred Experience: Able to use hand and power tools and have general knowledge of steam

Education

There is no educational substitution at this grade level.

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.

Contacts

• Address Jack C Montgomery VA Medical Center 1011 Honor Heights Drive Muskogee, OK 74401 US
• Name: Roxanne Stilwell
• Phone: 303-202-8360
• Email: [email protected]