Launch Your Career: Housekeeping Aid Opportunities at the VA
Are you looking for a stable career where your daily work directly impacts the lives of those who have served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technicians at the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System in Montrose, New York. This role is essential for maintaining the high standards of cleanliness and safety that our Veterans deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As a Housekeeping Aid, you will perform a comprehensive range of tasks to maintain the facility. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Sanitization: Cleaning wards, patient rooms, restrooms, and shower areas.
- Floor Maintenance: Sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, and polishing floors using industrial-grade machines.
- Waste Management: Efficiently collecting and disposing of trash and hazardous materials.
- Facility Upkeep: Replacing curtains, installing light bulbs, and cleaning Venetian blinds.
- Safety: Ensuring spills are addressed immediately and maintaining clear, hazard-free corridors.
Comparison: Standard Janitorial vs. VA EVS Technician
| Feature | Standard Janitorial | VA EVS Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | General cleaning | Clinical & patient-centered sanitation |
| Equipment | Basic tools | Specialized industrial power equipment |
| Environment | Commercial office | Hospital/Healthcare setting |
| Impact | Property appearance | Veteran health and safety |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria by the closing date of the announcement:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Registration: Selective Service registration is mandatory for qualifying males.
- Screening: You must clear a federal background and security investigation.
- Health: You must be capable of passing a pre-employment physical.
- Compliance: You must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $21.62 to $25.23, depending on experience and qualifications. This rate is established under the Federal Wage System.
Benefits
Beyond a steady paycheck, the VA provides a comprehensive "Total Rewards" package, which includes:
- Generous paid annual and sick leave.
- Flexible scheduling options to support work-life balance.
- Access to childcare subsidy programs.
- Career enhancement and leadership development programs.
- Free parking or transit subsidies at most facility locations.
Application Tips
Securing a federal position requires attention to detail. Remember to:
- Keep it brief: Your resume must not exceed two pages.
- Be specific: Clearly detail your experience, including any volunteer work, as we cannot make assumptions about your skills.
- Use PDFs: Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Review: Use the USAJOBS resume builder to align your experience with the position requirements.
If you take pride in your work and want to support our Veterans in a professional, stable environment, this Housekeeping Aid role is an excellent opportunity. Start your application today to join a team dedicated to excellence and service.
Why This Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job Matters
Join the VA team in Montrose, NY, and play a vital role in providing a safe, clean environment for the Veterans who have served our nation.
Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job Overview
The Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System is currently seeking dedicated individuals for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician roles. In this position, you will perform essential custodial and janitorial duties to maintain a clean, sanitary, and welcoming environment for Veterans, their families, and our healthcare staff. This is a meaningful opportunity to contribute to a high-impact mission while enjoying the stability and comprehensive benefits of a federal career.
Requirements for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Must undergo and pass a background and security investigation
- Requirement to complete a pre-employment physical examination
- Ability to complete an online onboarding process
- Mandatory annual seasonal influenza vaccination or authorized exemption
- Must serve a one-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician
- Prior experience in custodial, janitorial, or housekeeping services
- Ability to operate industrial cleaning equipment such as floor buffers and wall washers
- Experience working in a healthcare or clinical facility setting
- Proven reliability in performing tasks with minimal supervision
- Strong physical stamina for continuous walking, standing, and heavy lifting
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal health insurance programs
- ✓Flexible work schedules
- ✓Child care subsidy program
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Transit subsidy or free parking options
💡 How to Apply Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Review the job questionnaire online to understand the assessment criteria.
- Upload your resume and all necessary supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, SF-50s, or military documents).
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and notification of referral.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages; longer resumes will not be accepted.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your formatting meets agency standards.
- Be specific about your work experience, including both paid and volunteer roles.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting during the upload process.
- Check your application status regularly through your online profile dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Housekeeping Aid at the VA?
You will perform light and heavy cleaning, including sanitizing patient rooms, sweeping/mopping floors, removing waste, and maintaining cleanliness in common areas to ensure a safe environment for Veterans.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all selected applicants must undergo a background and security investigation as part of the hiring process.
Are there specific education requirements?
No specific length of training or education is required; however, your resume must demonstrate your ability to perform the duties of the position.
Do I need prior hospital experience?
*A: No, previous experience in a hospital is not required, but any experience in industrial or custodial cleaning is highly valued.*
How long is the probationary period?
*A: All new hires are required to serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.*
Can I apply if I am not a Veteran?
*A: Yes, this position is open to the public.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to providing world-class care and support to our nation's Veterans. Working at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to service. Our staff members are the backbone of the healthcare experience, ensuring that every facility is a clean, healing environment for those who sacrificed for our freedom. With competitive pay, robust federal benefits, and opportunities for professional growth, the VA is an employer of choice for those seeking a meaningful career path.