Become a VA Carpenter: Building a Foundation for Veteran Care
Are you a dedicated carpenter who takes pride in structural precision and quality workmanship? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for a skilled Carpenter to join the maintenance team at the Marion VA Medical Center in Illinois. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to use your craft to support the facilities that provide essential services to the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Carpenter, you will perform the full range of carpentry duties. This includes but is not limited to:
- Construction & Repair: Cutting, installing, and repairing wood, steel studs, and composite materials.
- Surface Work: Installing drywall, laying flooring, and repairing roofing components.
- Concrete & Masonry: Repairing small slabs, pads, and tuckpointing brick or block structures.
- Project Planning: Laying out projects and estimating material needs to support preventative maintenance.
- Equipment Maintenance: Ensuring hand and power tools are in safe, working order.
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to perform the work required. While a specific length of experience isn't required, you must provide evidence of your skills. Key requirements include:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to pass a background check.
- Physical fitness to stand, bend, and work from scaffolds.
- Capability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Salary & Benefits Overview
| Pay Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $32.19 - $37.61 Per Hour |
| Job Grade | WG-09 |
| Work Schedule | Mon-Fri, 7:00am - 3:30pm |
| Location | Marion, IL |
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, remember the new two-page resume limit. Focus on the most recent, relevant experience, and ensure your resume is saved as a PDF for the best formatting. Always review the "Required Documents" section carefully before submitting.
If you have the skills to maintain high-quality facilities and a heart for service, we encourage you to apply. Join the Marion VA team today and contribute to a legacy of excellence.
Why This Carpenter Job Matters
Take your carpentry career to a mission-driven environment where your craftsmanship directly improves the lives of those who have served our nation.
Carpenter Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Carpenter to join the Facilities Management Service at the Marion VA Medical Center in Illinois. In this role, you will provide critical maintenance and construction support for the main medical center as well as local Community Based Outpatient Centers (CBOCs). You will be responsible for a wide range of structural tasks, including carpentry, drywall installation, flooring, and minor masonry work, ensuring that all facilities remain safe and functional for our Veterans.
Requirements for Carpenter
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Ability to pass a background investigation for Federal employment.
- Must be able to lift and carry items up to 50 pounds, with occasional heavier lifting assisted by others.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must be able to perform physical labor, including standing, stooping, bending, and working from ladders or scaffolds.
- Adherence to all onboarding and identity verification requirements, including REAL ID compliance.
Preferred Qualifications for Carpenter
- Proven experience in reading blueprints and technical specifications.
- Demonstrated ability to perform precise measurements and layout for construction projects.
- Experience with a variety of trade tools, including hand and power equipment.
- Proficiency in drywall, flooring installation, and minor concrete repair.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay rates.
- ✓Opportunity to contribute to a national mission supporting Veterans.
- ✓Stable federal work environment.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- ✓Leave accrual benefits based on total federal service.
💡 How to Apply Carpenter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Carpenter Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, such as performance appraisals, licenses, or military records (DD-214).
- Review your application for completeness and submit it before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to comply with federal merit hiring requirements.
- Quantify your experience; highlight specific carpentry projects and the tools you utilized.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your formatting meets agency standards.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are in accepted formats (PDF is highly recommended).
- Tailor your resume language to mirror the specific skills listed in the job announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for my resume?
Federal regulations now require that resumes be no longer than two pages. Applications with longer resumes will be deemed ineligible.
Is a security clearance required for this role?
No, a security clearance is not required, but you must pass a suitability and fitness background investigation.
Are Veterans' preference rules applicable here?
Because this position is filled via Direct-Hire Authority, traditional Veterans' Preference rules do not apply, though qualified veterans will still receive full consideration.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise: "To care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan." At the Marion VA, we uphold these values through 'I CARE'—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.