Become a Pipefitter at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital
Are you a skilled tradesperson looking to apply your expertise in a meaningful way? The William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, is currently seeking a dedicated Pipefitter to join its engineering team. This position offers the opportunity to support the critical medical infrastructure that ensures our nation’s Veterans receive the high-quality, compassionate care they deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As a Pipefitter, your primary duties involve the installation, maintenance, and repair of essential systems. Key responsibilities include:
- Performing safety and preventive maintenance on medical gas, air, and vacuum distribution systems.
- Welding repairs and fabrication using various techniques, including arc and oxygen-acetylene.
- Maintaining plumbing, heating, and steam distribution systems.
- Reading blueprints and technical specifications to guide installations.
- Responding to work orders to ensure all facility systems meet national and agency codes.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet several core criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Physical: Must pass a pre-employment physical.
- Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Documentation: Must provide relevant identification and personnel records (SF-50/DD-214).
Salary Overview
The compensation for this role is competitive, ranging from $32.59 to $38.02 per hour, based on qualifications and Federal Wage System standards.
Quick Comparison: Facility Maintenance Roles
| Feature | Pipefitter Role | Standard Private Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Full Federal Package | Varies by Employer |
| Mission | Serving Veterans | General Business Needs |
| Work Environment | Medical Facility | Commercial/Residential |
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs enjoy a range of benefits, including annual leave accrual, federal service credit, and the satisfaction of contributing to a mission-critical infrastructure that directly supports patient care.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your resume is concise and limited to two pages. Focus on highlighting your technical competencies rather than just job titles. Always save your files as PDFs to maintain formatting, and double-check that your SF-50 is the most recent version available.
If you are a motivated pipefitter ready to put your skills to work for a noble cause, this position at the Madison VA Hospital is an excellent career step. Apply today to help us continue our mission of providing world-class service to our Veterans.
Why This Pipefitter Job Matters
Join the dedicated engineering team at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital and play a vital role in maintaining the critical infrastructure that supports our nation's heroes.
Pipefitter Job Overview
As a Pipefitter for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Madison, Wisconsin, you will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of essential utility systems. This role is fundamental to the daily operations of a complexity level 1B medical facility, ensuring that everything from medical gas lines to steam distribution systems functions safely and efficiently to support patient care.
Requirements for Pipefitter
- U.S. Citizenship
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Subject to a successful background/security investigation
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Mandatory completion of annual seasonal influenza vaccination or authorized medical/religious exemption
- Commitment to a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period
- Valid identification (REAL ID compliant)
Preferred Qualifications for Pipefitter
- Demonstrated ability in medical gas, air, and vacuum distribution systems
- Proficiency in welding (oxygen, acetylene, arc, and pipe welding)
- Experience with high and low-pressure steam distribution
- Expertise in interpreting blueprints and technical specifications
- Strong mechanical troubleshooting and tool maintenance skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal leave accrual based on service years
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
- ✓Stable federal work environment
- ✓Supportive mission-driven organizational culture
💡 How to Apply Pipefitter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Pipefitter Job
- Create or update your profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Review your resume to ensure it is no longer than two pages.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including your SF-50 and DD-214 if applicable.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is formatted as a PDF for maximum compatibility.
- Use clear, concise, and results-oriented language.
- Focus your resume on the most relevant, recent experience.
- Verify that your SF-50 clearly demonstrates your time-in-grade eligibility.
- Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of this role?
You will be responsible for the repair, modification, and maintenance of medical gas, vacuum, steam, and hot/cold water systems within the VA hospital.
Is a specific trade certification required?
While a specific length of training is not mandated, you must provide evidence that you possess the skills and technical ability to perform the duties of the position as described.
Are there physical demands for this position?
Yes, you will be expected to stand, bend, and work in uncomfortable positions, often on ladders or scaffolding, and lift equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
What is the work schedule?
The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. The William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital is a top-tier facility providing specialized care across southern Wisconsin and beyond. As an employee here, you are part of a mission-focused team that values your technical contributions to patient health and safety.