Become an Environmental Services Technician with the Sioux Falls VA
Are you looking for a career that combines stable federal benefits with a meaningful mission? The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is currently hiring Housekeeping Aids—also known as Environmental Services Technicians—to support our world-class healthcare facilities. This role is essential for maintaining the clean, sanitary, and safe environment our Veterans deserve.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the backbone of our facility's hygiene. Your daily tasks will include:
- Floor Care: Washing, polishing, and maintaining surfaces.
- Disinfection: Sanitizing patient rooms, restrooms, and clinical areas to prevent infection.
- Equipment Operation: Using heavy-duty powered cleaning equipment, including floor buffers and pressure washers.
- Waste Disposal: Safely managing trash, recycling, and regulated medical waste.
- Supply Management: Keeping patient areas stocked with necessary sanitary supplies.
Requirements
To succeed in this position, you must be a US citizen and pass a background investigation. You must also commit to the influenza vaccination program and be comfortable with the physical demands of the job.
Comparison of Key Work Aspects
| Task Type | Physical Demand | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Floor Maintenance | High | Daily |
| Waste Removal | Medium | Daily |
| Sanitizing Equipment | Low | Weekly |
| Room Deep Cleaning | High | As Assigned |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage, currently set between $17.78 and $20.75 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
- Excellent health and life insurance options.
- Retirement savings programs (FERS).
- Generous leave policies for vacation and sick time.
- A tax-friendly work location in South Dakota.
Application Tips
- Limit your resume: Do not exceed two pages.
- Be specific: Detail your experience with cleaning equipment and safety protocols.
- Use the portal: Ensure all documents are uploaded correctly in the USAJobs portal.
Serving the brave men and women who have defended our country is a noble profession. If you are a hardworking, detail-oriented individual, we invite you to apply and contribute to our mission at the Sioux Falls VA.
Why This Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's heroes through essential environmental services.
Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job Overview
The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is seeking a diligent Environmental Services Technician to join our team. In this role, you will play a vital part in maintaining a clean, safe, and hygienic environment for our Veterans. You will perform a variety of custodial and janitorial tasks, including floor maintenance, sanitization of patient and clinical areas, and waste management. Your attention to detail and commitment to our 'I CARE' core values are essential to providing a high-quality, healing environment.
Requirements for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available)
- Must be suitable for Federal employment, verified through a background investigation
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service
- Must participate in the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Ability to perform continuous physical tasks such as walking, standing, stooping, and lifting over 50 lbs
- Completion of a one-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician
- Demonstrated ability to follow safety guidelines and operational procedures
- Experience handling industrial cleaning equipment and hazardous materials
- Strong hand-eye coordination and attention to detail
- Reliability and dependability in a professional facility setting
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive health insurance plans
- âś“Federal retirement benefits
- âś“Paid annual and sick leave
- âś“Stable work environment with federal job security
- âś“No state income tax in South Dakota
- âś“Opportunities for professional development within the VA system
đź’ˇ How to Apply Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account if you do not have one.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including proof of any claimed veterans' preference or federal service history.
- Submit your application package through the online portal before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; it must be no longer than two pages to be considered.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet all formatting requirements.
- Focus your resume on accomplishments rather than just duties; be specific about your experience.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents (SF-50, etc.) are attached before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for the resume?
Per federal requirements, resumes for this position must be no longer than two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will result in ineligibility.
Is this a one-time hiring event?
No, this is an open continuous announcement. We will review applications periodically as vacancies occur until the announcement expires on September 30, 2026.
What physical demands should I expect?
The role involves continuous standing, walking, bending, and the use of industrial cleaning equipment weighing up to 100 pounds.
Do I need prior hospital experience?
While helpful, no specific length of training is required. You must simply demonstrate your ability to do the work safely and effectively.
Is there a probationary period?
Yes, all new hires are required to serve a one-year probationary period.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As an employee here, you are part of a national organization that prioritizes integrity, commitment, advocacy, respect, and excellence.