Become a Maintenance Mechanic at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Are you a skilled technician looking to apply your talents to a meaningful cause? The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas, is currently seeking a dedicated Maintenance Mechanic to join its facilities team. This role is essential to maintaining the infrastructure of a world-class health care facility that serves over 151,000 Veterans. If you have expertise in electrical, mechanical, or HVAC systems, this is a unique opportunity to grow your career while supporting those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Maintenance Mechanic, you will be responsible for the complex task of keeping a large medical facility operational. Your duties will include:
- Troubleshooting and repairing electrical circuits, fixtures, and power panels.
- Maintaining HVAC, refrigeration, and chiller systems.
- Performing industrial plumbing repairs, including clearing main sewer lines.
- Interpreting complex blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
- Operating specialized tools to test and adjust mechanical and pneumatic mechanisms.
- Performing preventive maintenance to ensure hospital equipment remains in peak condition.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship (with limited exceptions).
- Ability to perform the work, demonstrated through past experience or training.
- Willingness to undergo a background investigation and periodic drug testing.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Compliance with facility-specific medical and vaccination requirements.
Skills Comparison Table
| Skill Category | Key Competencies |
|---|---|
| Electrical | Circuitry, wiring, panels, test instruments |
| Mechanical | HVAC, refrigeration, hydraulic systems |
| Plumbing | Industrial pipes, sewers, pressure valves |
| Documentation | Blueprint reading, technical manuals, math |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage between $33.20 and $38.80. Employees benefit from working within the Federal system, which provides access to comprehensive health coverage, retirement planning, and generous leave accrual programs. Furthermore, the VA may grant service credit for previous job-related experience to determine your leave-earning rate.
Application Tips
To stand out, your application must be precise.
- Respect the Limit: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
- Be Specific: Detail your duties and ensure the hours worked per week are clearly listed.
- Tailor Your Content: Use terminology from the job announcement to show how your experience aligns with the specific maintenance needs of our facility.
Joining the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center means more than just a job; it means contributing to a mission that changes lives. If you are a hardworking, detail-oriented mechanic, we encourage you to apply and help us maintain the standard of excellence our Veterans deserve.
Why This Maintenance Mechanic Job Matters
Join the team at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and play a vital role in ensuring our Veterans receive world-class care through expert facility maintenance.
Maintenance Mechanic Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Maintenance Mechanic to join the Facilities Management Service Line in Houston, Texas. In this role, you will perform essential preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, directly contributing to the operation of a major medical facility that serves over 151,000 Veterans.
Requirements for Maintenance Mechanic
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Ability to perform the work of the position, demonstrated through relevant training and experience.
- Must pass a background investigation and remain suitable for federal employment.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must successfully complete an online onboarding process.
- Must undergo a 1-year probationary period.
- Must provide REAL ID-compliant identification for pre-employment.
- Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Maintenance Mechanic
- Proven experience in electrical circuit repair and National Electrical Code knowledge.
- Strong proficiency in reading and interpreting complex blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.
- Expertise in troubleshooting and maintaining commercial HVAC, refrigeration, and plumbing systems.
- Skill in using specialized hand and power tools for industrial maintenance.
- Ability to work in confined, cramped, or physically demanding environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Federal career advancement opportunities
- ✓Supportive, mission-driven work environment
- ✓Access to a comprehensive federal benefits package
💡 How to Apply Maintenance Mechanic Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Maintenance Mechanic Job
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, such as service records or performance appraisals.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of August 27, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates, hours per week, and detailed descriptions of your duties.
- Save your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting and adhere to the two-page limit.
- Use standard, legible fonts and keep margins at 0.5 inches.
- Focus on recent and relevant experience that aligns with the listed job duties.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents are attached before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a specific length of experience required?
No, there is no mandatory duration for training, but you must demonstrate the necessary skills and quality of experience to perform the job's duties.
What is the page limit for the resume?
Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must not exceed two pages. Applications with longer resumes will be deemed ineligible.
Can I receive credit for volunteer experience?
Yes, volunteer work that demonstrates relevant competencies and skills is credited as qualifying experience.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for our Veterans. The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is a cornerstone of this mission in southeast Texas. We operate on the 'I CARE' core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. As part of our team, you will work in an environment that prioritizes professional growth and compassionate service.