Advance Your Career as an Engineering Technician at the Durham VA
The Durham VA Medical Center is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Engineering Technician to join its dedicated Engineering Service team. If you are an engineering professional looking to apply your skills in a setting that directly improves the lives of our nation’s Veterans, this is a unique opportunity to build a career with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Job Responsibilities
As an Engineering Technician (GS-11), you will be the backbone of facility improvement and maintenance. Your primary duties will include:
- Project Management: Coordinating renovation and repair projects from concept to final completion.
- Design and Review: Preparing construction drawings and specifications, and conducting thorough reviews of contractor submittals.
- Cost Control: Developing detailed cost estimates and managing contractor change-order requests.
- On-Site Inspection: Monitoring contractor performance and ensuring strict compliance with safety and design plans.
- Data Collection: Performing field measurements and surveys to maintain up-to-date facility records.
Comparison: Standard Engineering Role vs. VA Engineering Tech
| Feature | Standard Private Sector Role | VA Engineering Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Mission Focus | Profit-driven projects | Veteran-centric care support |
| Stability | Fluctuating market demand | Federal career stability |
| Benefits | Varies by company | Standard Federal benefits package |
| Impact | Commercial gain | Directly supporting healthcare infrastructure |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-10 level in construction or engineering systems.
- Documentation: You must provide clear, concise documentation of your previous work, including hours worked per week.
- Assessments: Must complete the required online competency-based assessments.
Salary Overview
The salary for this position ranges from $77,983 to $101,383 per year. This compensation reflects the GS-11 grade level and is commensurate with federal salary schedules.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust suite of benefits, including:
- Competitive health insurance plans.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Federal retirement savings plans.
- Opportunities for professional growth and training.
Application Tips
- Watch Your Length: Keep your resume strictly under two pages.
- Be Specific: Explicitly state the number of hours worked per week for every job listed.
- Use the Right Tools: Use the official federal resume builder to ensure your formatting meets requirements.
Serving as an Engineering Technician at the Durham VA is more than just a job; it is a chance to contribute to a meaningful mission. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply by the September 8, 2026, deadline.
Why This Engineering Technician Job Matters
Launch a mission-critical career in engineering support at the Durham VA Medical Center and play a vital role in the infrastructure that sustains the care of our nation’s Veterans.
Engineering Technician Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a skilled Engineering Technician to join the Engineering Service team in Durham, North Carolina. This role is fundamental to the facility’s operations, focusing on project management, cost estimation, construction monitoring, and technical data collection. You will serve as a key point of contact for contractors, ensuring that all renovations, repairs, and maintenance projects meet rigorous VA standards. This position is a perfect fit for professionals who combine technical engineering knowledge with a passion for public service and supporting the healthcare infrastructure for Veterans.
Requirements for Engineering Technician
- U.S. Citizenship
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-10 level (or equivalent)
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation
- Must live within or be willing to relocate to a commutable distance of Durham, NC
- Completion of an online assessment
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Technician
- Advanced graduate education in engineering, construction, or industrial technology
- Expertise in drafting and construction cost estimation
- Proven experience monitoring contractor performance and compliance
- Advanced proficiency in project data collection and field measurements
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employee retirement benefits
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid time off and sick leave
- ✓Flexible scheduling opportunities
- ✓Professional development and career advancement
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives
💡 How to Apply Engineering Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Engineering Technician Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Log in or create an account on the official federal jobs platform.
- Prepare a two-page maximum resume highlighting relevant engineering experience.
- Attach all required documentation, including transcripts and veteran status proof.
- Submit your application and complete the required online questionnaire.
- Check your email for instructions regarding the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.
- Complete the assessment within the specified timeframe.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to remain eligible.
- Use clear, results-oriented language that mirrors the requirements in this job posting.
- Double-check your email spam folder for assessment links.
- Use the resume builder tool provided by the federal job portal for optimal formatting.
- Document your work history with specific dates and total hours worked per week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely for this position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Durham, NC. You must reside within a commutable distance of the duty location.
What is the maximum resume length?
To comply with federal merit hiring plans, your resume must not exceed two pages.
Are there any vaccination requirements?
Yes, as a health care facility employee, you are required to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program unless granted a medical or religious exemption.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Are there vaccination requirements?
Yes, all employees must participate in the seasonal influenza program as a condition of employment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing compassionate care to those who have served in our military. As part of the Veterans Health Administration, you will be joining a team where every role contributes to the mission of providing world-class health facilities and services to our Veterans.