Maintenance Mechanic Opportunity at VA James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL

Are you a skilled and dedicated maintenance professional looking to serve those who have served our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a qualified Maintenance Mechanic to join the esteemed team at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital in Tampa, Florida. This critical role ensures the optimal functioning of a bustling tertiary care medical center, providing essential support services that directly impact the health and well-being of our nation's Veterans. If you possess a strong understanding of building systems, a knack for problem-solving, and a commitment to excellence, this opportunity offers a rewarding career path with excellent benefits and a stable work environment.

About the Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

At the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors. The VA is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, providing a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and extended care services. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is at the forefront of this mission, delivering high-quality health care to millions of Veterans annually. The VA Tampa Healthcare System is a vital component of this network, offering comprehensive medical services and playing a crucial role in training future healthcare providers and conducting important medical research. It's a place where you can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much.

Job Responsibilities: What You'll Do

As a Maintenance Mechanic at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, you will be instrumental in maintaining the hospital's infrastructure and ensuring a safe and functional environment for patients and staff. Your duties will encompass a wide array of tasks, requiring a broad skill set across various building trades. Key responsibilities include:

• General Building Maintenance: Performing tasks such as laying floor tile, installing ceiling tile, plastering, and painting.
• Electrical Systems: Installing and repairing lights, light fixtures, receptacles, and switches.
• Plumbing: Conducting minor repairs on water and heating systems, including troubleshooting and repairing steam systems, backflow prevention valves, radiators, and coils. You'll also work on sewage, water, oil, and gas distribution systems, as well as fixtures like water closets, tubs, fire sprinkler systems, and showers.
• Carpentry: Measuring, cutting, and constructing various projects, including framework, rafters, doors, finished paneling, windows, furniture, and interior/exterior trim. This involves interpreting blueprints, sketches, and building codes to plan and execute carpentry projects.
• Hardware and Fixtures: Performing lock maintenance, installing door closures and stops, hanging bulletin boards, pictures, mirrors, fans, clocks, and mounting various fixtures like paper towel holders and signs.
• Equipment Maintenance: Installing casters on desks, chairs, and food carts, and installing safety treads on steps.
• Tool Proficiency: Operating and maintaining a wide range of general and specialized tools and equipment used in various building trades, including specialty woodworking machines.
• Inspections: Inspecting patient wards and other areas to identify and address general maintenance needs.
• Planning and Execution: Independently planning and completing projects, often working from building plans, blueprints, and sketches to ensure proper routing, placement, and operation of systems and equipment.

This role requires the ability to work effectively under the direct supervision of the Maintenance and Repair Supervisor, contributing to the overall efficiency of the Facilities Management Service.

Requirements: What You'll Need

To be considered for this Maintenance Mechanic position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• U.S. Citizenship: This is a requirement, although exceptions may be made for non-citizens if U.S. citizens cannot be recruited.
• Suitability Determination: Applicants must be deemed suitable for Federal employment through a background investigation.
• Drug Screening: Tentatively selected applicants will be required to undergo a urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Refusal to be tested will result in denial of employment.
• Selective Service Registration: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.
• Onboarding: Selected candidates will need to complete an online onboarding process.
• Identification: Acceptable identification must be provided for pre-employment requirements, such as completing Form I-9 (note: non-REAL ID compliant licenses will not be accepted after May 7, 2025).
• Probationary Period: A 1-year probationary period is required to evaluate performance and conduct. Continued employment beyond this period is contingent upon certification that it advances the public interest.

Experience and Qualifications:

While no specific length of training or experience is mandated, applicants must demonstrate through detailed descriptions on their resume that they possess the necessary scope and quality of training and experience to perform the duties of the position. This includes a strong capacity in the following areas:

• Ability to perform the work of the position without more than normal supervision.
• Ability to interpret instructions, specifications, and blueprints (including blueprint reading).
• Proficiency in using and maintaining tools and equipment.
• Knowledge of equipment assembly, installation, and repair.
• Understanding of materials and technical practices.

Your qualifications will be assessed against the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards, with an initial evaluation against a 'screen-out' element focused on the ability to work independently.

Salary Overview

This Maintenance Mechanic position offers a competitive hourly wage:

• Minimum Range: $27.00 per hour
• Maximum Range: $31.50 per hour

This pay scale reflects the WG (Wage Grade) classification for the position.

Benefits: Why Work for the VA?

The VA offers a robust benefits package designed to support its employees and their families:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off: Generous accrual of annual (vacation) and sick leave, plus federal holidays.
• Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) or Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS).
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): A valuable retirement savings and investment plan.
• Life Insurance: Options for Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement.

Application Process

Applying for this position is straightforward:

1. Visit USAJOBS.gov: Create an account or log in to your existing profile.
2. Find the Announcement: Search for the Maintenance Mechanic position (Position ID: CBTC-13078145-27-MG).
3. Apply Online: Click the 'Apply Online' button and follow the instructions.
4. Upload Documents: Select your USAJOBS resume and any other required supporting documents.
5. Complete Questionnaire: Fill out the occupational questionnaire thoroughly and accurately.
6. Submit Application: Ensure your complete application package is submitted by the deadline: November 3, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time.

Application Tips for Success

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight experience and skills directly relevant to the duties and qualifications listed in this announcement. Be specific about your accomplishments.
• Address All Qualifications: Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your ability in all the specified 'Job Elements,' especially the ability to work independently.
• Use Keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description throughout your resume and questionnaire responses.
• Complete Documentation: Double-check that all required documents are uploaded. Incomplete applications are often deemed ineligible.
• Proofread: Review your entire application for accuracy and clarity before final submission.
• Resume Length: Adhere to the two-page resume limit to avoid ineligibility. Use concise language and focus on the most relevant experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the salary range for this position?	The salary ranges from $27.00 to $31.50 per hour.

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| What are the working hours? | The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 3:00 PM to 11:30 PM. | | Is this position open to the public? | Yes, this position is open to the public, and Direct-Hire Authority is being utilized. | | What documents are required for the application? | A resume is required. Depending on your eligibility, you may also need to provide a DD-214, SF-50, transcripts, etc. Please refer to the 'Required Documents' section for a complete list. | | Does Veterans' Preference apply? | Traditional Veterans' Preference does not apply due to the use of Direct-Hire Authority, but qualified veterans will receive full consideration. | | How will I know the status of my application? | You will receive email notifications after the announcement closes. You can also check your application status through your USAJOBS account. | | What are the physical demands of the job? | The work involves physical exertion, including lifting up to 50 pounds (occasionally over 50 pounds), working from ladders and scaffolding, and performing tasks in cramped, uncomfortable, or difficult-to-reach locations. This includes prolonged standing, crouching, stooping, bending, and kneeling. |

This Maintenance Mechanic position at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a vital healthcare system while advancing your career. With competitive pay, excellent benefits, and the satisfaction of serving America's Veterans, this role is ideal for a skilled and motivated individual. Don't miss the chance to become part of the VA team – apply today!