Become an Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic with the VA
Are you a skilled HVAC technician looking to apply your expertise in a role that truly matters? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at the Lt. Col. Luke Weathers, Jr. VA Medical Center in Memphis is currently seeking a dedicated Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic to join our mission-critical engineering team.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the backbone of the facility's climate control. Your duties will include:
- Troubleshooting & Diagnostics: Identifying failures in refrigeration, heating, and cooling units.
- System Calibration: Maintaining precise temperature environments for sensitive areas like data centers and medical labs.
- Preventative Maintenance: Servicing glycol run-around systems and cooling towers to ensure longevity.
- Installation: Modifying and installing new equipment, including walk-in coolers and ventilation sensors.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Proof of training or experience in HVAC/R systems.
- Ability to clear a federal background investigation.
- Compliance with the annual influenza vaccination policy.
- Submission of a professional, two-page (maximum) resume.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive hourly rate between $30 and $35 per hour, commensurate with experience and the federal wage system.
Quick Comparison: Standard vs. VA HVAC Roles
| Feature | Private Sector HVAC | VA Medical Center HVAC |
|---|---|---|
| Work Environment | Variable / Construction | Clinical / Medical Campus |
| Mission | Profit-driven | Supporting Veterans |
| Job Security | Market Dependent | High Federal Stability |
| Facility Type | Diverse sites | Advanced Medical Center |
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
- Be Specific: Use clear, technical language to describe your experience with pump alignment, electronic controls, and system repair.
- Use the Builder: Utilize the USAJOBS resume builder to guarantee your formatting meets federal standards.
If you have the skills to maintain complex climate systems and the passion to serve those who defended our nation, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the perfect blend of technical challenge and service to our community.
Why This Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic Job Matters
Join the mission to serve those who served: Use your HVAC expertise to maintain critical infrastructure at the Lt. Col. Luke Weathers, Jr. VA Medical Center.
Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic to join the Engineering Service team in Memphis, Tennessee. This role is vital to the daily operations of a complex, high-stakes medical environment, ensuring that climate-sensitive areas—including surgical suites, data centers, and patient rooms—are kept at precise temperatures for safety and health. You will handle the installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of complex HVAC/R systems in a fast-paced, mission-driven atmosphere.
Requirements for Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified U.S. citizens are not available).
- Ability to pass a comprehensive federal background investigation.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must be able to perform physically demanding tasks in extreme weather and temperature conditions.
- Compliance with the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages in length.
Preferred Qualifications for Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic
- Proven track record of troubleshooting complex refrigeration and heating systems.
- Experience with building automation systems and electronic controls.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical blueprints and specifications.
- Experience with large-scale facility maintenance and mechanical pump repair.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a high-security medical environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career stability
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the VA network
- ✓Participation in federal leave and retirement programs
- ✓Impactful work serving the Veteran community
💡 How to Apply Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Review the job announcement and prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Attach all required documentation, including your resume and relevant certifications.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS profile.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your two-page resume on your most relevant and recent technical experience.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet formatting requirements.
- Clearly detail your technical skills and mechanical background—the agency will not make assumptions.
- Submit your application as a PDF to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Check your application status regularly via the official portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for my resume?
As of September 2025, federal agencies require resumes to be no longer than two pages. Resumes exceeding this length will not be considered.
Do I need specific certification to apply?
While no specific length of experience is mandated, you must provide clear evidence of your ability to perform the duties of the role, including installation, repair, and troubleshooting of HVAC systems.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all selected applicants must undergo a background investigation to determine suitability for federal employment.
What is the probation period?
*A: New hires must serve a 1-year probationary period to ensure fitness for duty.*
Can I submit a PDF portfolio?
*A: No, PDF portfolio files are not accepted. Please upload a standard document file.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Lt. Col. Luke Weathers, Jr. VA Medical Center serves over 206,000 Veterans across a fifty-three county area. As a Clinical Referral Level 1 facility, we provide comprehensive medical services ranging from spinal cord injury treatment to cardiology and oncology. Our facility relies on advanced, state-of-the-art infrastructure, making the role of the HVAC Mechanic essential to our daily operations.