Launch Your Career as a Boiler Plant Operator at the Albany VA
The Samuel S. Stratton VA Medical Center is a cornerstone of healthcare for Veterans in New York. Behind every successful medical procedure and every comfortable recovery room is a robust infrastructure system. As a Boiler Plant Operator, you serve as the backbone of this facility, ensuring that the steam, climate control, and electrical systems operate at peak performance 24/7. This is more than a maintenance role; it is a critical support function for a mission that matters.
Job Responsibilities
As a Boiler Plant Operator, your primary duties involve the operation and maintenance of large-scale boiler systems. You will:
- Start, adjust, and monitor high-pressure boilers and pollution control equipment.
- Troubleshoot complex electrical systems, including pumps, motors, and variable frequency drives.
- Perform plumbing and pipefitting repairs for steam, gas, and water lines.
- Maintain and calibrate precision instrumentation to ensure plant efficiency.
- Log data and perform chemical testing in cooling towers to ensure environmental compliance.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet several federal criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Physical Health: Must undergo a pre-employment physical.
- Vaccination: Adherence to the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment.
- Probation: A 1-year probationary period is required.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hourly Pay | $30.95 - $36.10 per hour |
| Work Schedule | Shift Work |
| Location | Albany, NY |
| Benefits | Full federal health, retirement, and leave benefits |
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Federal resumes for this post must not exceed two pages.
- Quantify Experience: Be specific about the type of boilers and electrical systems you have maintained.
- Formatting: Save your documents as PDFs to maintain a clean layout.
- Deadlines: Submit your application well before the September 8, 2026, deadline to avoid technical issues.
If you are a skilled technician looking for a stable, mission-focused career, the Boiler Plant Operator position at the Albany VA is an outstanding opportunity. Apply now to contribute to the care of our nation’s Veterans.
Why This Boiler Plant Operator Job Matters
Power the mission of care for our Veterans by ensuring the critical infrastructure at the Albany VA Medical Center remains operational as a Boiler Plant Operator.
Boiler Plant Operator Job Overview
The Samuel S. Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, New York, is seeking a skilled Boiler Plant Operator to join our Facilities Management team. In this role, you will be responsible for the continuous operation, maintenance, and repair of our high-pressure boiler systems and auxiliary climate control infrastructure. You will work within a complex medical environment, ensuring that heating, cooling, and steam systems function efficiently to support essential hospital operations. This is a vital position that directly impacts the comfort and safety of our nation's heroes and the staff who care for them.
Requirements for Boiler Plant Operator
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must complete a pre-employment physical examination.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must pass a background and security investigation.
- Required to serve a 1-year probationary period.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Must possess relevant experience or training in boiler plant operations as demonstrated on your resume.
Preferred Qualifications for Boiler Plant Operator
- Demonstrated expertise in high-pressure boiler operations and maintenance.
- Proven experience with electrical systems (AC/DC, 3-phase, motor controls).
- Strong mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting industrial pumps, HVAC systems, and pneumatic instrumentation.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex blueprints, technical manuals, and electrical schematics.
- Working knowledge of plumbing systems, including high-pressure steam, fuel oil, and natural gas lines.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Stability of federal employment with the Veterans Health Administration
💡 How to Apply Boiler Plant Operator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Boiler Plant Operator Job
- Create a profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50s or DD-214s if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume focused and concise; it cannot exceed two pages.
- Clearly map your experience to the duties described in the job announcement.
- Upload documents in PDF format to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Double-check your questionnaire responses before hitting submit.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet all formatting guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of a Boiler Plant Operator at the VA?
You will operate and maintain high-pressure boilers, chillers, and associated electrical and plumbing systems to ensure the hospital's climate and steam needs are met.
Are there specific physical requirements for this job?
Yes, this role involves moderate to strenuous activity, including climbing ladders, working in confined spaces, and lifting equipment up to 50 pounds.
Is a license required?
*A: While not explicitly listed as a certification requirement in the announcement, experience with industrial machinery is essential for eligibility.*
Can I use my volunteer work as experience?
*A: Yes, the VA recognizes relevant volunteer experience as part of your overall qualifications.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served our nation. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides compassionate, whole-health care to millions of Veterans. Joining the Albany VA means becoming part of a dedicated community focused on excellence, efficiency, and gratitude.