Become a Boiler Plant Operator at the Wilmington VA Medical Center
The Wilmington VA Medical Center (VAMC) is seeking a highly skilled and safety-conscious individual to join our Facilities Management team as a Boiler Plant Operator. This role is foundational to the operational success of our medical facility, ensuring that the heating and utility infrastructure functions flawlessly to support our Veterans' healthcare needs.
Job Responsibilities
As a Boiler Plant Operator, your primary duties involve the oversight, maintenance, and repair of the VAMC boiler plant. You will be responsible for:
- Monitoring and adjusting boiler plant operations using digital and manual controls.
- Performing chemical water treatments to prevent corrosion and scale buildup.
- Conducting preventive maintenance on auxiliary equipment, pumps, and compressors.
- Troubleshooting safety devices such as flame safeguard systems and pressure valves.
- Documenting system performance data including temperatures and pressures.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- A pre-employment physical examination must be completed.
- You must hold a valid, unrestricted state driver's license.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service.
- Ability to pass a federal background check.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is competitive, reflecting the technical nature of the work.
| Pay Period | Rate Range |
|---|---|
| Hourly | $30.62 - $35.77 |
Benefits
Employees of the Wilmington VAMC enjoy a suite of federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance programs.
- Generous leave accrual rates.
- Eligibility for federal retirement programs.
- Potential eligibility for a Critical Skills Incentive (CSI).
Application Tips
- Page Limit: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. This is a strict federal requirement.
- Clarity: Ensure your resume clearly details your technical experience, specifically referencing equipment types and responsibilities.
- Documentation: Have your most recent SF-50 ready if you are a current federal employee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there a probation period? A: Yes, you will serve a one-year probationary period or a two-year trial period to evaluate your performance and fitness for the role.
Q: Can I apply if I don't have federal experience? A: Yes, this position is open to qualified candidates, but you must demonstrate your ability to perform the work clearly in your resume.
Serving as a Boiler Plant Operator at the Wilmington VA Medical Center is more than just a job; it is a way to serve those who have served us. If you have the technical skills and the dedication to join our team, we encourage you to apply before the November 12, 2026, deadline.
Why This Boiler Plant Operator Job Matters
Join the Wilmington VA Medical Center as a Boiler Plant Operator and play a vital role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports the health and well-being of our nation's heroes.
Boiler Plant Operator Job Overview
The Wilmington VA Medical Center is seeking a skilled Boiler Plant Operator to join our Facilities Management Service team. In this role, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a complex boiler plant, ensuring uninterrupted service to the medical facility. This position is essential for maintaining the climate and utility stability required to provide top-tier care to Veterans.
Requirements for Boiler Plant Operator
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation
- Pre-employment physical examination required
- Possession of a valid, unrestricted state driver's license
- Must complete a one-year probationary period or two-year trial period
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Boiler Plant Operator
- Demonstrated ability to perform boiler plant operations under minimal supervision
- Proficiency in interpreting technical instructions, specifications, and schematics
- Advanced mechanical aptitude for equipment assembly, installation, and repair
- Proven experience with manual, automatic, and microprocessor-based controls
- Safety-conscious mindset with experience in high-pressure steam environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career retirement benefits
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on service years
- ✓Potential for Critical Skills Incentive (CSI) lump sum payments
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Health and life insurance options
💡 How to Apply Boiler Plant Operator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Boiler Plant Operator Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Prepare a resume no longer than two pages
- Complete the online questionnaire
- Upload required documents (SF-50, DD214, transcripts)
- Submit your application package by the closing date
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to remain eligible
- Ensure your resume highlights relevant technical skills and hours worked per week
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure proper formatting and data inclusion
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve your document formatting
- Verify that your SF-50 clearly shows one-year time-in-grade if you are a federal employee
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum length for my resume?
To comply with the Merit Hiring Plan, all resumes must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
Is a physical required for this position?
Yes, a pre-employment physical is required as part of the hiring process for this role.
What if I cannot find my most recent SF-50?
You must provide an SF-50 that clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade. Award SF-50s are not sufficient; please provide a promotion or within-grade increase document.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to honoring President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military. Working at the Wilmington VAMC means joining a compassionate team dedicated to providing "whole health" care. Our facility is a hub of excellence, and our maintenance team is the backbone that ensures our medical environment is safe, reliable, and efficient.