Become a Utility Systems Operator at the Sheridan VA Medical Center
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of support for those who have defended our country. The Sheridan VA Medical Center is currently seeking a dedicated professional to serve as a Utility Systems Operator. This role is essential to our mission, as it ensures that the physical infrastructure—the literal heart and lungs of our medical facility—remains fully functional. If you possess a background in mechanical systems, boiler operations, or facility maintenance, this is your opportunity to apply your skills in a setting that makes a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Utility Systems Operator, you will report to the Supervisory Engineer and be responsible for the daily maintenance and operation of critical plant equipment. Your primary duties include:
- Operating and maintaining boiler systems, pumps, and valves.
- Conducting routine plant rounds to monitor gauges, meters, and overall system health.
- Performing chemical water treatments and adhering to EPA potable water standards.
- Managing emergency generator systems to ensure facility reliability.
- Utilizing digital tools to maintain logs, research parts, and report on fuel usage.
- Ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, including LOTO and arc flash safety standards.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate the capacity to perform the work based on your resume and experience. Key requirements include:
- A current, valid state-issued driver's license.
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to pass a background/suitability investigation.
- Willingness to undergo drug testing and participate in the annual influenza vaccination program.
Skills Comparison Table
| Skill Category | Key Competency |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | Boiler & HVAC maintenance |
| Regulatory | EPA and DEQ compliance |
| Administrative | Digital record-keeping (Excel/Word) |
| Safety | LOTO and electrical hazard protocols |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with the Federal Wage System (WS). The salary range for this role is $42.94 to $50.10 per hour. Candidates are encouraged to clearly outline their experience in their resume to ensure accurate placement within the pay scale.
Benefits
Employees of the Veterans Health Administration enjoy a robust benefits package that includes:
- Federal retirement contributions.
- Health insurance options.
- Competitive leave accrual (annual and sick).
- Professional development opportunities.
- A supportive, mission-driven workplace culture.
Application Tips
- Be Comprehensive: Do not rely on recruiters to assume your skills. List every relevant machine, system, and regulatory standard you have experience with.
- Formatting Matters: If you are a former or current federal employee, ensure your SF-50 is clearly labeled and demonstrates one-year time-in-grade.
- Follow Deadlines: The application closes on August 24, 2026. Submissions received after the cutoff will not be reviewed.
Serving as a Utility Systems Operator at the Sheridan VA Medical Center is a career path that rewards technical precision and dedication. You will be part of an organization that prizes excellence and cares deeply about its employees and the Veterans they serve. We encourage you to review the application requirements carefully and submit your application to become part of our team.
Why This Utility Systems Operator Job Matters
Join the Sheridan VA Medical Center team and apply your technical expertise to support those who have served our nation in this critical facility operations role.
Utility Systems Operator Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a skilled Utility Systems Operator for the Sheridan VA Medical Center. In this role, you will be a vital member of the Facilities Management team, responsible for the operational integrity of the medical center’s steam production, heating, water, and mechanical systems. You will work under the guidance of the Supervisory Engineer, ensuring that our campus infrastructure remains efficient, safe, and fully operational to support high-quality patient care for our Veterans.
Requirements for Utility Systems Operator
- U.S. Citizenship
- Valid state-issued driver's license
- Ability to pass a background/suitability investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Commitment to a 1-year probationary period
- Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting up to 50 lbs, climbing, and working in confined spaces
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Utility Systems Operator
- Proven experience with boiler operations (natural gas and fuel oil)
- Technical knowledge of water micro-filtration and EPA reporting requirements
- Experience with HVAC, electrical systems (low to high voltage), and steam heating
- Proficiency in administrative software, including Excel and Word, for record-keeping
- Experience with underground fuel tank compliance and state environmental regulations
- Knowledge of Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) safety protocols
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Opportunities for federal career growth
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on service years
- ✓Integrated, patient-centered work environment
- ✓Professional work-life balance
💡 How to Apply Utility Systems Operator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Utility Systems Operator Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather required documents (Resume, SF-50 if applicable).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of August 24, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and detailed in your resume regarding your technical experience, as no assumptions are made.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates time-in-grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Preview the occupational questionnaire before starting to ensure you have all necessary information ready.
- Double-check your application status in the USAJOBS portal periodically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a specific degree required for this position?
No, there is no formal education requirement. This is a Federal Wage System position, and qualifications are based entirely on your demonstrated technical experience and ability to perform the work.
What are the physical demands of this job?
The role requires extensive walking and standing (4-6 hours daily), as well as occasional heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs), climbing, kneeling, and working in tight or cramped mechanical spaces.
Is travel required?
No, this position has a travel code of 0, meaning it is site-specific to the Sheridan, Wyoming facility.
What kind of work environment should I expect?
This is a 24/7/365 operation. You will work on a rotating shift basis. The environment involves exposure to extreme temperatures, noise, chemicals, and electrical hazards, necessitating the use of specialized protective gear.
Are there growth opportunities?
The VA offers extensive opportunities for leadership and advancement across multiple functions. Starting as a Utility Systems Operator can be a stepping stone into broader engineering or facility management roles.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides state-of-the-art care to Veterans through a compassionate, integrated approach. Our core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide every decision we make. Working with the VHA means more than just a job; it means joining a community dedicated to serving those who served us. We offer a balanced professional environment where growth, stability, and work-life balance are prioritized.