Become an Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic for the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic to join the Facility Management Service team at the VA Central Western Mass Healthcare System. If you are a technician who takes pride in maintaining complex mechanical systems, this position offers the chance to apply your skills in an environment that honors our nation’s Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As an Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic, you will be the backbone of the facility's climate control and air quality infrastructure. Your primary responsibilities include:
- System Maintenance: Installing and repairing large systems that handle heating, cooling, and humidity control.
- Troubleshooting: Diagnosing issues in mechanical compression, vapor compression, and steam jet systems.
- Technical Repair: Overhauling valves, aligning motors, fitting pistons, and managing complex refrigeration cycles.
- Testing: Monitoring pressure-temperature characteristics and ensuring system efficiency.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Certification: You must hold a valid 'Universal' EPA certification (40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F).
- Technical Ability: You must demonstrate proficiency in HVAC mechanics without the need for constant supervision.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Documentation: All applicants must submit a resume (max 2 pages) and proof of certification.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Certification | EPA Universal Section 608 |
| Employment Type | Full-Time (40 hrs/week) |
| Schedule | 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM (M-F) |
| Security Clearance | Low Risk / Non-Sensitive |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive wage, ranging from $30.51 to $35.53 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
The VA provides a comprehensive benefits package aimed at promoting work-life balance, including generous annual leave, sick leave, and flexible scheduling options. Furthermore, new federal employees may be eligible for service credit based on prior non-federal or military experience, which can accelerate annual leave accrual rates.
Application Tips
- Mind the Limit: Your resume must be under two pages. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure compliance.
- Be Explicit: Clearly describe your technical experience. The HR team cannot infer skills that are not explicitly listed in your work history.
- Documentation: Always double-check that your EPA certification is uploaded as a legible attachment.
This role is an excellent opportunity for HVAC professionals to leverage their experience while serving the Veterans community in Leeds, MA. With a stable schedule and the security of a federal position, you will find a rewarding long-term career at the VA. Apply by August 13, 2026, to ensure your application is processed.
Why This Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic Job Matters
Join the VA Central Western Mass team and apply your technical expertise to maintain critical infrastructure that supports our nation’s Veterans.
Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking skilled Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanics for the VA Central Western Mass Healthcare System in Leeds, Massachusetts. This role is essential for ensuring the reliable operation of complex heating, cooling, and air filtration systems throughout our healthcare facilities. You will work within a dedicated Facility Management Service team to perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on large-scale commercial HVAC systems.
Requirements for Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic
- U.S. Citizenship
- Possession of EPA 'Universal' certification under section 608 of the Clean Air Act
- Ability to perform technical repairs with minimal supervision
- Successful completion of a background investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Commitment to a 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic
- Demonstrated experience in HVAC mechanical compression and vapor systems
- Proven proficiency in troubleshooting complex commercial air conditioning equipment
- Ability to interpret blueprints and technical specifications
- Experience in industrial equipment overhaul and calibration
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Generous paid time off and leave programs
- âś“Predictable scheduling (Monday-Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm)
- âś“Opportunity for Federal service credit for previous job-related experience
- âś“Comprehensive career development within the largest integrated healthcare system in the nation
- âś“Work-life balance focus
đź’ˇ How to Apply Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, specifically your EPA Universal certification.
- Submit your application package before the deadline on August 13, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically highlights your HVAC technical skills and duties, as no assumptions will be made about your experience.
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure proper formatting and readability.
- Verify that your EPA certification document is uploaded clearly.
- Check your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the two-page resume limit strictly enforced?
Yes, federal agencies now strictly require resumes to be two pages or less. Applications exceeding this limit will be ineligible.
What specific EPA certification is required?
You must hold an 'Universal' certification under section 608 of the Clean Air Act (40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F).
What is the work environment like?
The work involves both indoor and outdoor settings, including mechanical rooms and unconditioned attics, requiring physical ability to work in temperature extremes.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the nation. Driven by the core 'I CARE' values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—the VA provides world-class care to those who have served in our military. Working here means more than just a job; it is a commitment to a noble mission.