Become a Laborer at the VA Phoenix Healthcare System
Are you looking for a physically engaging role where your hard work directly impacts the quality of life for our nation's Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs is currently seeking a motivated Laborer to join the Environmental Management Services team at the VA Phoenix Healthcare System. This position offers stable federal employment and the opportunity to work in a mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Laborer, you will perform a variety of manual tasks essential to the daily upkeep of the medical facility. Your core responsibilities will include:
- Site Preparation: Cleaning job sites and preparing areas for construction or maintenance.
- Equipment Operation: Using tools such as blowers, power drills, weed eaters, and pressure washers.
- Logistics: Utilizing hydraulic and mechanical devices to load and unload supplies from trucks.
- Groundskeeping: Digging trenches, breaking up pavement, and maintaining outdoor spaces.
- Facility Support: Moving office furniture, setting up conference rooms, and managing trash/recycling collections.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several federal criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Physicality: You must be capable of lifting and carrying items over 50 pounds.
- Background: Candidates must pass a federal background check and potentially a drug screening.
- Resume Limit: You must submit a resume of two pages or fewer to remain eligible.
Comparison of Work Seasons
| Feature | Summer Season (Apr-Oct) | Winter Season (Nov-Mar) |
|---|---|---|
| Start Time | 4:00 AM | 6:00 AM |
| End Time | 12:30 PM | 2:30 PM |
| Shift Length | 8 Hours | 8 Hours |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage between $19.62 and $22.89. In addition to pay, employees gain access to the federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, and accrued leave.
How to Apply
Applying is a straightforward process completed entirely online. Ensure your resume is optimized for the two-page limit and clearly outlines your relevant experience with tools and manual labor. Visit the USAJOBS portal to submit your documents by August 5, 2026.
If you take pride in your work and want to serve a greater purpose, a career as a Laborer with the VA Phoenix Healthcare System is an excellent choice. Apply today to help us provide the environment our Veterans deserve.
Why This Laborer Job Matters
Join the Phoenix VA Healthcare team and play a vital role in supporting our nation's heroes by maintaining our world-class facilities.
Laborer Job Overview
The VA Phoenix Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Laborer to join the Environmental Management Services team. This hands-on position is essential to daily operations, involving site preparation, material handling, equipment operation, and general facility maintenance. If you are a hardworking individual looking to serve those who have served us, this is your opportunity to build a meaningful career within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Requirements for Laborer
- Must be a U.S. citizen (exceptions apply for specific circumstances).
- Must pass a comprehensive background investigation and suitability check.
- Must be willing to undergo a urinalysis test for illegal drug use if selected.
- Must register with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying items exceeding 50 pounds.
- Must be able to work in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.
- Must commit to a 1-year probationary period.
- Must provide valid, REAL ID-compliant identification.
Preferred Qualifications for Laborer
- Demonstrated experience in manual labor, groundskeeping, or facility maintenance.
- Proficiency in operating heavy machinery such as forklifts, pressure washers, and power mowers.
- Strong track record of following safety protocols in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks including bending, kneeling, and climbing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal hourly wages
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Participation in the federal retirement system
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual
- ✓Potential for career advancement within the VA system
💡 How to Apply Laborer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Laborer Job
- Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Review the job announcement and align your resume with the specific duties listed.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including DD-214 or SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date of August 5, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages; longer resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your formatting complies with federal standards.
- Highlight your specific experience with tools and heavy machinery clearly.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and layout.
- Double-check your responses to the occupational questionnaire for accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a high school diploma required for this position?
A specific length of training or formal education is not strictly required. However, you must demonstrate through your resume that you possess the skills and capability to perform the duties of a laborer.
How long is the probationary period?
Selected candidates must serve a 1-year probationary period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.
What if my ID is not REAL ID compliant?
As of May 7, 2025, non-compliant state IDs or driver's licenses are not accepted as valid identification for federal employment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise: "To care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan." By joining our team, you become a key part of the "I CARE" culture—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.