Launch Your Career: Housekeeping Aid at the Salem VA Health Care System

Are you searching for a stable career where your daily work directly supports the heroes who served our country? The Salem VA Health Care System is currently hiring a Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician. This role is more than just cleaning; it is about maintaining a sanitary, safe, and comfortable environment for our Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As an Environmental Services Technician, your primary goal is to ensure the facility meets the highest standards of cleanliness. Your daily duties will include:

Sanitation: Disinfecting patient care areas, bathrooms, and high-touch surfaces.
Floor Care: Operating industrial-grade buffers and performing routine floor maintenance.
Waste Management: Efficiently handling and removing trash while adhering to safety protocols.
Supply Management: Replenishing hygiene essentials like soap, hand sanitizer, and paper products.
Specialized Cleaning: Cleaning needle boxes, defrosting nourishment kitchen refrigerators, and utilizing pressure washers as needed.

Work Requirements Comparison

Requirement	Description
Schedule	Monday - Friday, 6:45am - 3:30pm (Weekend/Holiday rotation)
Physicality	Requires standing, walking, and lifting 50+ lbs
Environment	Mostly indoor facility with some outdoor tasks
Security	Background check and drug screening required

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
Suitability: You must pass a background investigation.
Health: Participation in the annual seasonal influenza program is mandatory.
Probation: All new employees must complete a one-year probationary period.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $17.78 to $20.75 per hour. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and generous paid leave accrual.

How to Apply

Applying for federal jobs requires precision. Follow these steps to ensure your application is competitive:

Prepare your Resume: Ensure it is two pages or fewer.
Use the Portal: Submit all applications via the official USAJOBS platform.
Include Docs: Attach necessary items like your DD-214 if you are a veteran, or other relevant certifications.
Complete the Questionnaire: The online assessment is a critical component of your eligibility rating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need prior janitorial experience? A: While not strictly required, you must demonstrate the skills and ability to perform the work in your resume.

Q: Is this a remote position? A: No. This role is performed on-site at the Salem VA Medical Center.

Q: How long is the probationary period? A: Every new hire must complete a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.

Working at the Salem VA Health Care System is an opportunity to join a supportive community dedicated to excellence. If you are a hard worker who values reliability and service, we encourage you to apply today and contribute to the vital mission of caring for our Veterans.

Why This Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in healthcare support and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans at the Salem VA Health Care System.

Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job Overview

The Salem VA Health Care System is seeking dedicated individuals to join our Environmental Management Services team. As a Housekeeping Aid/Environmental Services Technician, you will ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for Veterans, staff, and visitors. This role is essential to our facility's mission, requiring attention to detail and a commitment to high standards of sanitation and hygiene.

Requirements for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician

U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered only if qualified citizens are unavailable).
Must pass a comprehensive background investigation for federal suitability.
Willingness to undergo pre-employment urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use.
Must be registered with Selective Service if born after December 31, 1959.
Ability to perform continuous physical tasks, including walking, standing, and lifting.
Must adhere to a 1-year probationary period of federal employment.

Preferred Qualifications for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician

Demonstrated experience in custodial or janitorial work in a professional or healthcare setting.
Ability to safely operate industrial cleaning equipment such as floor buffers and pressure washers.
Strong attention to detail regarding sanitation protocols and biohazard safety.
Evidence of reliable work history and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Competitive retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Accrued paid annual and sick leave.
✓Professional training and development opportunities within the Veterans Health Administration.
✓Opportunities for long-term career growth within the federal government.

💡 How to Apply Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Housekeeping Aid - Environmental Services Technician Job

Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
Prepare a concise resume, strictly limited to two pages, highlighting relevant skills and experience.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
Upload all required supporting documents, such as your resume and, if applicable, military service or disability documentation.
Submit your final application package before the closing date of October 29, 2026.
Monitor your application status through the online portal.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to remain compliant with federal merit hiring rules.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder tool for better formatting and adherence to requirements.
Save and upload your documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
Be specific in your resume—the VA will not make assumptions about your experience.
Double-check that all required documents (like SF-50 or DD-214) are attached before submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior experience required?

While no specific length of training is mandatory, you must demonstrate the ability to perform the duties through your past experience or training outlined in your resume.

What is the work schedule?

The position generally operates Monday through Friday, from 6:45 am to 3:30 pm, with requirements for occasional work on holidays and weekends.

Are there physical requirements for this job?

Yes. This position requires significant physical activity, including constant walking, standing, kneeling, and the handling of cleaning equipment weighing over 50 pounds.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who served. At the Salem VA Medical Center, located in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful Roanoke Valley, we pride ourselves on our 'I CARE' values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.