Career Opportunity: Carpenter with the Veterans Health Administration

Are you a skilled carpenter looking to leverage your craft for a meaningful cause? The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System is currently seeking a dedicated Carpenter to join our facility team in Lake City, Florida. This role offers more than just a paycheck; it provides an opportunity to support the brave men and women who have served our country.

Job Responsibilities

As a Carpenter at the Lake City VAMC, your primary focus is the construction, maintenance, and repair of the facility's interior and exterior structures. Key duties include:

Interpreting complex blueprints, schematics, and shop drawings.
Constructing and installing custom fixtures such as cabinets, counters, and workstations.
Ensuring all work complies with fire ratings, building codes, and safety regulations.
Selecting appropriate materials, including wood, metal studs, and composites.
Operating woodworking machinery and maintaining tools in safe, working condition.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Physical Fitness: Capability to lift 50 lbs, work on ladders/scaffolding, and stand for extended periods.
Resume Limit: Your application must include a resume no longer than two pages.
Background: Must be able to pass a background check and drug screening if required.

Comparison: General Carpentry vs. VA Facility Carpentry

Feature	General Carpentry	VA Facility Carpentry
Work Environment	Residential/Commercial Sites	Medical Facility
Safety Standards	Standard OSHA	Strict Medical/Safety Compliance
Project Variety	Diverse	Facility Maintenance/Custom Build
Mission Focus	Client Satisfaction	Supporting Veterans

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $27.97 to $32.64. Compensation is determined by the Federal Wage System, reflecting the specialized skills required for facility maintenance in a healthcare environment.

Benefits

Federal leave accrual.
Career advancement opportunities within the VA.
A stable, mission-driven work environment.
Eligibility for service credit based on prior federal experience.

Application Tips

Use the Resume Builder: The USAJOBS resume builder helps keep your formatting within the two-page requirement.
Be Detailed: Clearly define your experience in your resume; the agency cannot make assumptions about your abilities.
Follow Deadlines: Ensure all documents are submitted by November 2, 2026.

If you have the skills and the desire to serve those who served us, we invite you to apply. This role offers a unique intersection of craftsmanship and public service. Start your application today and help us maintain excellence for our Veterans.

Why This Carpenter Job Matters

Build a legacy of service: Apply your expert carpentry skills to maintain essential medical facilities for our nation's heroes in Lake City.

Carpenter Job Overview

The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System is seeking a skilled Carpenter to join our dedicated facilities team at the Lake City VAMC. In this role, you will be instrumental in the upkeep and construction of structural components, ensuring our medical center remains a safe and functional environment for veterans. You will work on a variety of interior and exterior projects, ranging from custom cabinetry to structural maintenance, all while upholding the high standards of the VA.

Requirements for Carpenter

U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered only if no qualified citizens are available).
Ability to perform the physical tasks required, including standing, bending, kneeling, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
Must be suitable for Federal employment based on a background investigation.
Completion of a one-year probationary period upon appointment.
Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Submission of a resume limited to a maximum of two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Carpenter

Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex blueprints and shop drawings.
Strong technical skills in operating woodworking machinery and power tools.
Demonstrated ability to select appropriate building materials based on safety codes and project specifications.
Experience in construction, structural repair, and finish carpentry work.
Strong judgment in sequencing construction tasks and ensuring structural alignment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay rates.
✓Federal leave accrual based on years of service.
✓Opportunities for professional growth within the VA system.
✓Eligibility for credit for job-related non-federal experience toward leave accrual.
✓Access to a comprehensive federal career path.

💡 How to Apply Carpenter Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Carpenter Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Review your resume to ensure it is two pages or less.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload required documents, such as your DD-214 or SF-50 if applicable.
Submit your application package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages; anything longer will result in automatic disqualification.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder for formatting, as it ensures compliance with page limits and font preferences.
Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page structure.
Be specific in your descriptions of past work; the agency will not make assumptions about your skill level.
Double-check that all required supporting documents, like proof of military service, are uploaded correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the page limit for my resume?

Per the Merit Hiring Plan, your resume must be exactly two pages or shorter. Resumes exceeding this limit will not be considered.

Do veterans get preference for this role?

Because this position is filled using Direct-Hire Authority, traditional veterans' preference rules do not apply, though qualified veterans will be given full consideration.

Is a background check required?

Yes, all applicants must be suitable for Federal employment, which requires a successful background investigation.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military. Our core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE)—guide every aspect of our work. Joining the VHA means becoming part of a community that prioritizes safety, quality, and service.