Become an Environmental Services Technician with the VA in Buffalo
Are you looking for a career that combines manual skill with a deep sense of purpose? The VA Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo is currently hiring an Environmental Services Technician. This is a critical role that ensures our medical facilities remain sanitary, safe, and welcoming for the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Environmental Services Technician, your work is the backbone of our facility's hygiene standards. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- General Custodial Care: Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting in both patient and non-patient areas.
- Deep Cleaning: Stripping, refinishing, and polishing floors, as well as cleaning windows and walls.
- Sanitation: Disinfecting high-touch areas, restrooms, and shower facilities to prevent the spread of infection.
- Waste Management: Safely collecting and transporting general and regulated medical waste.
- Equipment Maintenance: Operating heavy industrial cleaning machinery and performing basic preventative maintenance on these tools.
Requirements
Candidates must meet several federal criteria to be considered for this role:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Background: Must be able to pass a federal suitability and background check.
- Resume Limit: You must submit a resume that is two pages or fewer to comply with the current Merit Hiring Plan.
- Drug Screening: Applicants must be prepared to undergo urinalysis if selected.
Salary Overview
This position offers competitive hourly compensation under the Federal Wage System:
| Position | Pay Range (Hourly) | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Services Technician | $21.99 - $25.66 | Full-time/Variable |
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust set of federal benefits. While specific eligibility may vary based on your appointment type, the VA provides a supportive environment that values the professional and personal health of its staff.
Application Tips
To stand out, make sure your resume is concise. Because federal agencies cannot make assumptions about your skills, ensure your experience descriptions clearly state your duties, how you used cleaning equipment, and your history of following safety protocols. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your documents align with the two-page limit.
If you take pride in your work and want to support the VA's mission, this position is a fantastic opportunity to start a career in the federal government. Apply today to help keep our facilities safe for those who gave so much for us.
Why This Environmental Services Technician Job Matters
Join the VA Western New York Healthcare System and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's heroes by maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.
Environmental Services Technician Job Overview
The VA Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo is seeking a dedicated Environmental Services Technician to join its facilities team. In this role, you will perform vital custodial and housekeeping duties that ensure our medical facility remains sanitized and safe for Veterans, their families, and our healthcare staff. This position is ideal for individuals who take pride in their work and want to contribute to the mission of providing compassionate care within a professional federal environment.
Requirements for Environmental Services Technician
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply under specific VA policy).
- Must be able to pass a federal background investigation.
- Must be eligible to work in a testing designated position, including mandatory drug screening.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must maintain a two-page maximum resume length to meet federal hiring requirements.
- Willingness to complete a 1-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Environmental Services Technician
- Prior experience in custodial, janitorial, or housekeeping work.
- Ability to operate industrial cleaning equipment such as floor buffers, scrubbers, and pressure washers.
- Familiarity with sanitization protocols in a medical or high-traffic environment.
- Demonstrated ability to perform manual labor efficiently in a team setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal hourly pay
- âś“Opportunities for professional growth within the VA system
- âś“Comprehensive federal employee benefit packages
- âś“Meaningful work serving Veterans
- âś“Structured training for specialized cleaning equipment
đź’ˇ How to Apply Environmental Services Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Environmental Services Technician Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or shorter, as required by the Merit Hiring Plan.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including your resume and any relevant certifications or proof of prior service.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on July 27, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet formatting requirements.
- Focus your two-page resume on your most recent and relevant experience.
- Double-check that your resume is saved in an accepted file format like PDF.
- Ensure all numbers, such as hours worked per week, are clearly stated to qualify your experience.
- Apply well before the closing date to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay for this position?
The pay range for this position is $21.99 to $25.66 per hour, depending on experience and location adjustments.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all selected applicants are subject to a background investigation and must be deemed suitable for federal employment.
Are there strict formatting rules for the resume?
Yes. Effective September 2025, resumes must be no longer than two pages. Exceeding this limit will result in your application being ineligible.
Do I need prior experience?
*A: While no specific length of training is required, you must demonstrate your ability to perform the duties of the role effectively.*
What hours will I work?
*A: The schedule typically involves mid-afternoon to late-night shifts (e.g., 3:30 PM to Midnight) or weekend shifts, depending on agency needs.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan." The VA core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide every member of our team. By joining the VA, you are not just taking a job; you are becoming part of a community that prioritizes the health and well-being of America's Veterans.