Utility Systems Repairer-Operator: A Critical Role in Veteran Healthcare

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively recruiting a dedicated Utility Systems Repairer-Operator to join the engineering team at the Salt Lake City VA Medical Center. This position is essential to the hospital's infrastructure, ensuring that the critical utility systems that support patient care remain fully operational 24/7. If you have a background in boiler plant mechanics and a commitment to service, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization.

Job Responsibilities

As a Utility Systems Repairer-Operator, your day-to-day will involve:

Plant Operations: Managing boiler plant systems in both automatic and manual modes.
Maintenance & Repair: Using hand and power tools to perform essential repairs on boilers and auxiliary machinery.
Data Analysis: Interpreting trends, logs, and sensor data to anticipate and prevent equipment failures.
Safety Monitoring: Overseeing combustible gas detection systems and storage tanks, including propane yards.
Team Communication: Coordinating with medical staff and engineering teams during emergencies or maintenance windows.

Comparison of Roles

Feature	Boiler Operator	Boiler Mechanic	USRO Position
Scope	Monitoring	Repairing	Both
Primary Focus	Operation	Maintenance	Integrated
System Level	Plant-wide	Component	Plant & Auxiliary

Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate journeyman-level competence in the repair and operation of boiler plant equipment. Key requirements include:

U.S. Citizenship.
Successful completion of background/suitability vetting.
Ability to perform strenuous physical labor.
A strictly formatted resume (maximum two pages).

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage range of $32.79 to $38.24 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications, under the Federal Wage System.

Benefits

Employees of the VA enjoy robust benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, and retirement plans. The VA also provides opportunities for career advancement and professional training.

Application Tips

Follow Instructions: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less.
Be Specific: Quantify your experience with specific tools and systems mentioned in the job description.
File Formats: Always upload as a PDF to ensure your formatting remains intact.

Serving our Veterans takes a whole team, and the infrastructure support provided by a Utility Systems Repairer-Operator is a cornerstone of that mission. If you are ready for a challenging role in a stable federal environment, apply to the VA today.

Why This Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Job Matters

Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Utility Systems Repairer-Operator and play a vital role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports our nation’s Veterans.

Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a skilled Utility Systems Repairer-Operator (USRO) in Salt Lake City, Utah. This role is a hybrid of a Boiler Plant Operator and a Boiler Plant Equipment Mechanic, responsible for the ongoing maintenance, repair, and operation of our facility's boiler plant and auxiliary utility systems. You will serve as the operator-in-charge during nights, weekends, and holidays, ensuring that medical center operations remain seamless and safe for those who have served our country.

Requirements for Utility Systems Repairer-Operator

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must undergo a background and suitability investigation.
Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Resume must not exceed two pages in length to comply with federal merit hiring standards.
Must provide legible, relevant documentation for qualification review.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, with heavier items moved via assistance or equipment.
Ability to work rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications for Utility Systems Repairer-Operator

Proven journeyman-level training or experience in boiler plant operation and repair.
Strong ability to read and interpret complex schematics, blueprints, and diagrams.
Proficiency with industrial control panels (Siemens and Johnson Controls).
Technical analytical skills for log maintenance, trend forecasting, and data interpretation.
Experience with Microsoft Office and electronic work order systems.
Demonstrated ability to perform water chemistry testing and system adjustments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay
✓Federal leave accrual based on service years
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Comprehensive health and retirement benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs
✓Opportunities for professional development and training within a large medical system

💡 How to Apply Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Utility Systems Repairer-Operator Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or fewer.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, certifications, SF-50).
Review your application for accuracy before the submission deadline.
Submit your application and monitor your status through your USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly follows the two-page limit as applications exceeding this will be disqualified.
Use a clear, standard font like Lato, Arial, or Calibri at 10-point to 14-point size.
Be specific about your work experience, including paid and volunteer roles that demonstrate your competency.
Submit your application as a PDF to preserve your formatting.
Do not wait until the final hours on the closing date to submit, as technical issues could delay your completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this role?

This position functions as both a boiler plant operator and a mechanic, handling the operation, maintenance, and repair of critical utility systems at the Salt Lake City VA Medical Center.

Are there specific physical requirements for this job?

Yes. This role requires moderate to strenuous activity, including walking, climbing, standing for long periods, and lifting up to 50 pounds regularly.

Is Veterans' Preference applied to this position?

Because this position is filled using Direct-Hire Authority, traditional Veterans' Preference rules do not apply; however, qualified veterans will receive full consideration.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing comprehensive care to the men and women who have served in our military. The SLC VAMC is a facility committed to compassionate, whole-health care, and their engineering department plays a silent but vital role in enabling that care through reliable utility management.