Launch Your Career as an Environmental Services Technician in Richmond, VA
Are you looking for a role that combines physical work with a meaningful purpose? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Richmond, Virginia, is looking for a hardworking, detail-oriented Environmental Services Technician. This role is essential to our mission, as our clinical staff and patients rely on clean and sanitized facilities to receive and provide the best care possible.
About the Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. Our 'I CARE' core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide every decision we make. By joining our team, you become part of a massive, supportive network dedicated to the well-being of America's heroes.
Job Responsibilities
As an Environmental Services Technician, your primary responsibility is to maintain the health and safety of our facility. You will be at the forefront of infection control, ensuring that every room, ward, and common area meets the highest sanitation standards. Your day-to-day duties include:
- Sanitization: Cleaning and disinfecting patient rooms, restrooms, corridors, and high-touch areas.
- Floor Care: Sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, and vacuuming using industrial equipment.
- Waste Management: Safely removing all trash, including regulated medical waste.
- Maintenance Support: Changing light bulbs, refilling dispensers, and moving furniture as needed.
- Safety Compliance: Strictly following infection control and environmental safety protocols.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Documentation: Must provide valid, REAL ID-compliant identification.
- Background: Ability to pass a federal background check.
- Health Compliance: Must participate in the annual influenza vaccination program or obtain an approved exemption.
- Physical Stamina: The role requires frequent walking, standing, and lifting equipment over 50 pounds.
Salary and Work Environment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $17.23 - $20.07 per hour |
| Location | Richmond, Virginia |
| Schedule | Varies (Includes days, nights, weekends, holidays) |
| Appointment Type | Direct-Hire Authority |
Benefits
As a federal employee with the VA, you will have access to competitive pay, structured career paths, and the satisfaction of contributing to a mission-driven organization. You will also earn leave hours based on your federal service time.
Application Tips
- Strict Two-Page Limit: Ensure your resume does not exceed two pages. This is a hard requirement for all federal job applicants.
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you haven't worked in a hospital, highlight experience in hotels, large dorms, or professional cleaning companies. Focus on your ability to work independently and safely.
- PDF Format: Save your resume as a PDF to ensure the formatting remains intact.
This position is more than just a job; it is a way to support those who have sacrificed for our country. If you are dependable, hard-working, and ready to start a career with the federal government, apply today via the USAJobs portal.
Why This Environmental Services Technician Job Matters
Join the Veterans Health Administration in Richmond, VA, and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who served our nation by maintaining clean, safe, and welcoming healthcare environments.
Environmental Services Technician Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Environmental Services Technician to join the team in Richmond, Virginia. In this vital role, you will perform essential housekeeping and custodial duties, ensuring that medical facilities remain sanitary and hazard-free for Veterans and their families. This is a Direct-Hire opportunity that plays a fundamental role in our 'I CARE' mission of providing compassionate, world-class service.
Requirements for Environmental Services Technician
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be considered only if qualified citizens are not available).
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- Must successfully complete an online onboarding process.
- Must possess valid, REAL ID-compliant identification for employment verification.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must be willing to serve a 1-year probationary period.
- Must comply with mandatory annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements or qualify for an approved exemption.
Preferred Qualifications for Environmental Services Technician
- Previous experience in custodial or housekeeping roles within a healthcare setting, hotel, dormitory, or large-scale facility.
- Demonstrated ability to operate heavy-duty cleaning equipment such as industrial buffers and floor scrubbers.
- Proven track record of maintaining cleanliness in high-traffic or regulated environments.
- Ability to manage time effectively and respond promptly to urgent maintenance or spill requests.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive hourly federal pay rates.
- âś“Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- âś“Supportive work environment dedicated to service and excellence.
- âś“Accrual of federal leave and vacation time.
- âś“Comprehensive federal employee benefits package.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Environmental Services Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Environmental Services Technician Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, focusing on relevant custodial and cleaning experience.
- Upload required documents, such as your resume and any applicable supporting documentation (e.g., DD-214).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of October 6, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages; the system will not accept longer documents.
- Use clear, results-oriented language that aligns with the duties described in the announcement.
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains consistent.
- Double-check your responses to the questionnaire for accuracy before hitting submit.
- Include specific details about the types of areas you have cleaned, such as hospital wards, offices, or hallways.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Direct-Hire Authority position?
It means the agency can hire qualified candidates faster by bypassing some of the traditional ranking and rating procedures, though veterans' preference is still fully considered.
Is experience in a hospital required?
While healthcare experience is a plus, the VA welcomes candidates with experience in hotels, dormitories, or other large living quarters who can demonstrate the ability to maintain clean, safe environments.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, federal guidelines now limit resumes to two pages. Any submission exceeding this length will be considered ineligible.