Become a Maintenance Mechanic with the VA Boston Healthcare System

Are you a hands-on professional looking for a stable, rewarding career? The VA Boston Healthcare System in Jamaica Plain is looking for a dedicated Maintenance Mechanic to maintain the infrastructure that supports our nation’s heroes. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of providing world-class care to our Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Maintenance Mechanic, your day-to-day will involve a diverse set of tasks that ensure our campus is safe and fully operational. Key responsibilities include:

Preventive Maintenance: Conducting routine inspections of plumbing, electrical systems, and building structures.
Carpentry & Structural Repair: Fabricating window frames, repairing flooring, and updating doors or trim.
Electrical & Plumbing: Troubleshooting fixtures, replacing switches, and maintaining piping systems.
Emergency Response: Performing snow and ice removal during inclement weather.

Skills Comparison Table

Skill Category	Technical Requirements
Facilities Repair	Carpentry, plumbing, electrical, roofing
Equipment	Hand tools, power tools, diagnostic instruments
Professional	Blueprint reading, shop mathematics, safety protocols

Requirements & Qualifications

To qualify, you must show evidence of your ability to perform trade-related work. While there is no specific length of time required for experience, your resume must clearly demonstrate your skills in the areas listed above.

Mandatory Criteria

U.S. Citizenship
Background investigation clearance
Two-page resume limit
Selective Service registration (for males born after 1959)

Salary & Benefits

This position offers competitive hourly compensation ranging from $35.40 to $41.31. Beyond the paycheck, the federal government provides a robust benefits package:

Leave: 13–26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
Retirement: Federal pension and 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with match.
Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Work-Life Balance: Paid parental leave and potential for childcare subsidies.

Application Tips

Use the Resume Builder: The USAJOBS resume builder ensures your formatting meets the strict two-page limit.
Be Specific: Do not make the hiring manager guess. Detail your actual experience with specific tools and types of repairs.
Review Carefully: Ensure all dates of employment and hours worked per week are listed clearly for every job entry.

Working for the VA is an opportunity to use your mechanical skills to make a real-world impact. If you are ready to serve those who have served us, submit your application through the official portal today.

Why This Maintenance Mechanic Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in facility maintenance with the VA Boston Healthcare System and help us uphold the promise to those who served.

Maintenance Mechanic Job Overview

The VA Boston Healthcare System is seeking a skilled Maintenance Mechanic to join our facilities team in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts. You will play a vital role in ensuring that our medical facilities are safe, functional, and well-maintained. This position covers a broad spectrum of trade tasks, including carpentry, plumbing, and electrical repairs, contributing directly to the comfort and care of our nation's Veterans.

Requirements for Maintenance Mechanic

Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be considered only if no qualified citizens are available).
Ability to pass a background investigation for suitability/fitness.
Must be registered with Selective Service if born after 12/31/1959.
Ability to complete an online onboarding process.
Submission of a resume limited to two pages.
Completion of a one-year probationary period.
Willingness to participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Maintenance Mechanic

Documented experience in carpentry, plumbing, or electrical repairs.
Proficiency in reading blueprints and technical specifications.
Proven ability to maintain and use various industrial power and hand tools.
Experience with building inspections and safety/fire hazard identification.
Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal hourly pay with regular increases.
✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
✓Federal pension plan and 401k-style savings program with up to 5% agency match.
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave and 13 sick days annually.
✓11 paid Federal holidays per year.
✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service.
✓Childcare subsidy eligibility for qualifying families.

💡 How to Apply Maintenance Mechanic Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Maintenance Mechanic Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or fewer.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload required documents (SF-50, DD-214, or relevant certifications).
Submit your complete application package before the 11:59 PM EST closing date.

💡 General Tips

Focus your resume on results-oriented language and highlight your most relevant trade skills.
Ensure your resume includes start/end dates, hours per week, and detailed descriptions of your duties.
Use a PDF format for your resume to preserve formatting and page count limits.
Check your application status regularly by logging into your USAJOBS profile.
Verify that your SF-50 clearly shows your series, grade, and tenure if you are a current or former federal employee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a permanent position?

Yes, this is a permanent position within the federal civil service, though it begins with a one-year probationary period.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No. Effective September 2025, federal job applications require a resume limited to two pages. Applications with longer resumes will not be considered.

What is the shift schedule for this role?

The role follows a specific schedule: Sunday 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Monday/Tuesday 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM; and Wednesday/Thursday 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM.

Do I need a license for this job?

While specific trade licenses are not always required for entry, proven technical experience is mandatory.

Is there relocation assistance?

No, relocation assistance is not authorized for this position.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to providing compassionate care to those who have served in our military. Our "I CARE" values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide everything we do. By joining the Facilities Management team, you are an essential part of the engine that keeps our hospitals running smoothly.