Launch Your Career: Utility Systems Repairer/Operator at the VA

Are you a skilled technician looking for a role that combines your mechanical expertise with a sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a dedicated Utility Systems Repairer/Operator to join our team in Johnson City, Tennessee. This position is vital to the daily operations of our medical facility, ensuring that the systems supporting our veterans are always running at peak performance.

Job Responsibilities

As a Utility Systems Repairer/Operator, your daily tasks will be diverse and critical:

System Monitoring: You will perform regular rounds of the Steam Boiler Plant and Air Conditioning Plant to check equipment status.
Technical Control: Manage digital air handling equipment, steam sterilization systems, and chilled water production.
Maintenance: Perform teardowns and rebuilds on plant equipment to ensure longevity.
Safety Compliance: Monitor Simplex Fire Alarm Systems and Medical Gas Alarms to ensure site safety.
Facility Housekeeping: Maintain machinery rooms to ensure a clean and efficient workspace.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must:

Be a U.S. citizen.
Provide a resume no longer than two pages.
Pass a background check and potential drug screening.
Register for the Selective Service if applicable.

Requirement Type	Detail
Citizenship	U.S. Citizen
Resume Limit	2 Pages Max
Clearance	Not Required
Shift	Varies

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly rate between $28.56 and $33.31, depending on experience and qualification assessment.

Benefits

Working for the VA provides access to federal benefits, including leave accrual and potential service credit for non-federal experience. Most importantly, you get the satisfaction of supporting the healthcare mission for our nation's heroes.

Application Tips

Format Your Resume: Stick strictly to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
Be Specific: Quantify your experience with boilers and mechanical systems.
Track Your Application: Log into your USAJOBS account to ensure all documentation was received.

If you have the skills to maintain complex utility systems and the passion to serve those who served us, we invite you to apply. Join the VA team in Johnson City and build a career that truly matters.

Why This Utility Systems Repairer/Operator Job Matters

Take control of critical infrastructure and support our nation's heroes by joining the Veterans Health Administration as a Utility Systems Repairer/Operator in scenic Johnson City, Tennessee.

Utility Systems Repairer/Operator Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Utility Systems Repairer/Operator to manage the critical boiler and chiller plant operations at our Johnson City facility. In this role, you will be the frontline defender of infrastructure, ensuring that essential steam, chilled water, and fire safety systems operate with peak efficiency. You will play a vital role in providing a safe, comfortable environment for the veterans we serve, working directly with a dedicated maintenance team to perform hands-on repairs, system monitoring, and preventative maintenance.

Requirements for Utility Systems Repairer/Operator

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be able to pass a background/suitability investigation.
Must provide a resume that is no longer than two pages.
Must register for Selective Service if male and born after December 31, 1959.
Ability to perform physical tasks such as walking, standing, climbing, and lifting heavy loads.
Willingness to undergo drug testing if required.

Preferred Qualifications for Utility Systems Repairer/Operator

Experience in boiler and chiller plant maintenance.
Proficiency in interpreting technical blueprints and schematics.
Knowledge of building automation and fire alarm systems.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision during shifts.
Experience with water treatment programs and facility safety protocols.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal leave accrual based on years of service
✓Potential credit for non-federal experience toward annual leave accrual
✓Career stability within the Department of Veterans Affairs
✓Opportunities for professional growth and training
✓Contribution to a vital mission of service to veterans

💡 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 strictly two pages or less.
Gather supporting documents such as DD-214 or transcripts.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your application package before the deadline on November 10, 2026.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically addresses the job elements mentioned in the announcement.
Use clear, detailed descriptions of your experience rather than general statements.
Check for the two-page resume limit, as exceeding it will result in automatic disqualification.
Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and relevant.
Double-check your responses to the online questionnaire before submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of this position?

You will manage the safe repair, maintenance, and operation of boiler and chiller systems, ensuring that temperature, humidity, and fire safety systems function correctly throughout the medical center.

Is a specific trade certification required?

There is no rigid length of training required, but you must demonstrate sufficient scope and quality of experience to perform the essential duties of the role.

What is the significance of the two-page resume limit?

Per the Merit Hiring Plan, any resume exceeding two pages will render the applicant ineligible, and the USAJOBS system will not accept longer documents.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation is not offered for this position.

What is the probation period?

Successful candidates serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and conduct.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is 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 in our nation's military. Working here means more than just a job; it means joining a community that values compassion, excellence, and long-term commitment to our veterans.