Launch Your Career as a Pipefitter with the VA

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently offering an exceptional opportunity for a skilled Pipefitter to join the team at the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana. This position is perfect for tradespeople who are looking for stable federal employment while serving a mission that matters: supporting our nation's Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Pipefitter, your work is the backbone of our facility’s infrastructure. Your primary duties will include:

System Maintenance: Installing and repairing high-pressure piping, steam systems, and hydraulic equipment.
Precision Machining: Operating small lathes, milling machines, and grinders to fabricate or re-machine component parts.
Technical Planning: Working from complex blueprints and building plans to layout routing and elevation for piping systems.
Emergency Response: Being prepared to address critical repairs during day or night shifts to ensure patient care is never compromised.

Comparison of Key Trades Tasks

Task Type	Description	Frequency
Preventative Maintenance	Checking valves and pressure systems	Daily
Emergency Repairs	Responding to system failures	As Needed
Fabrication	Creating custom bushings and seals	Weekly

Requirements

To qualify, applicants must provide evidence of training or experience in pipefitting or related trades. Key requirements include:

U.S. Citizenship.
Successful completion of a background investigation.
Ability to lift items over 50 pounds.
Adherence to the mandatory two-page resume limit.

Salary and Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary ranging from $30.39 to $35.54 per hour. Beyond the hourly pay, federal employees enjoy:

Accrued annual and sick leave.
Potential credit for military or non-federal experience toward leave earning rates.
Professional development within the federal government.

Application Tips

Keep it Brief: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Prioritize recent and relevant experience.
Be Explicit: The VA does not make assumptions. Clearly list your duties, hours worked, and skills for every position mentioned.
Follow Instructions: Use the USAJOBS tools to ensure your documents are formatted correctly before submission.

If you have the skills to handle high-pressure environments and the desire to serve those who have served us, apply for the Pipefitter role at the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center today. Ensure your application is submitted before the November 6, 2026, deadline.

Why This Pipefitter Job Matters

Join the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center team in Shreveport and help us uphold our promise to those who served. Your expertise as a Pipefitter directly supports the critical infrastructure that keeps our medical facilities running for Veterans.

Pipefitter Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Pipefitter to join the Maintenance and Operation Section at the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana. In this role, you will be responsible for the installation, modification, and repair of high-pressure piping, steam generation, water, and fire suppression systems. This is a vital position that ensures the safety and operational integrity of a facility dedicated to providing compassionate care to our nation's Veterans.

Requirements for Pipefitter

Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens appointed only when qualified citizens are unavailable).
Ability to pass a federal background investigation.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks, including lifting up to 50+ pounds.
Capability to work in tight spaces and wear a respirator.
Commitment to receiving annual influenza vaccinations or approved exemptions.
Must provide a resume not exceeding two pages in length.

Preferred Qualifications for Pipefitter

Demonstrated proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, sketches, and technical specifications.
Proven experience operating precision machinery, such as lathes, milling machines, and drill presses.
Technical expertise in troubleshooting, installing, and repairing industrial piping systems.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly federal pay rates.
✓Federal leave accrual based on years of service.
✓Credit for job-related non-federal or military experience for leave accrual.
✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
✓Meaningful work serving those who have served in the military.

💡 How to Apply Pipefitter Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Pipefitter Job

Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, focusing on relevant accomplishments.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload required documentation, including your resume and any applicable supporting documents (e.g., DD-214).
Review your application package for accuracy and completeness.
Submit your application before the closing date of November 6, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes clear dates (month/year) and average hours worked per week for all relevant positions.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you adhere to the two-page limit and formatting standards.
Avoid using PDF portfolios; stick to individual file formats like PDF or Word.
Tailor your resume specifically to the job duties listed in the announcement rather than using a generic template.
Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the two-page resume limit?

Federal agencies now require resumes to be two pages or less to comply with the Merit Hiring Plan. Resumes exceeding this limit will be deemed ineligible.

Are there physical requirements for this role?

Yes. You must be able to stand, bend, kneel, and climb. You will regularly lift equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and occasionally more, and must be able to wear respiratory protective equipment.

Is a security clearance required?

No, a security clearance is not required; however, you must be suitable for federal employment based on a standard background investigation.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Overton Brooks VA Medical Center is part of the Veterans Health Administration, the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served, along with their families and survivors. Shreveport-Bossier City provides a vibrant environment for employees, offering a unique blend of Cajun and Texan culture, excellent schools, and a reasonable cost of living.