Engineering Equipment Operator: Serving Veterans through Facilities Excellence
Are you skilled in operating heavy equipment and looking for a meaningful career? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking dedicated individuals to join the team at the Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center. As an Engineering Equipment Operator, you will play a critical role in maintaining the grounds and facilities that support our nation's Veterans. This is an opportunity to combine your mechanical talents with a mission of care and integrity.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be responsible for a wide range of tasks related to facility and grounds maintenance. Your daily duties will include:
- Equipment Operation: Manipulating controls for tractors, mowers, and other specialized attachments.
- Landscape Maintenance: Managing turfgrass, trees, and shrubs while navigating difficult terrain.
- Maintenance: Ensuring all equipment is properly fueled, lubricated, and serviced.
- Record Keeping: Documenting activities and keeping detailed digital logs.
Core Tasks Comparison
| Task Type | Key Activities |
|---|---|
| Operation | Controlling tractors, boom mowers, and attachments |
| Maintenance | Checking oil, tires, and mechanical systems |
| Administration | Updating spreadsheets and SOP records |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Fitness: Must pass a federal background check.
- Physical Health: Ability to perform heavy lifting (up to 100 lbs) and operate in strenuous positions.
- Compliance: Adherence to the two-page resume limit and all onboarding requirements.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage based on the Federal Wage System:
- Hourly Range: $29.99 to $34.94.
- Classification: Grade WG-8.
Benefits
Working for the VA provides access to robust federal benefits. These include stable employment, comprehensive leave programs, and the pride of serving the Veteran community.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Follow the two-page resume requirement strictly.
- Be Detailed: Use the job description to align your resume language with the required skills.
- Use PDF: Always upload your documents as a PDF to preserve your formatting.
If you are a reliable equipment operator ready to contribute to the VA mission, we encourage you to apply. This role offers both personal satisfaction and professional stability in a high-impact environment. Submit your application today to join a team that truly cares.
Why This Engineering Eqpt Operator Job Matters
Join the Department of Veterans Affairs in a hands-on role at the Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center, where your skills in landscape maintenance and equipment operation directly support those who served our nation.
Engineering Eqpt Operator Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking reliable Engineering Equipment Operators to join the grounds and facilities maintenance team at the Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center in Loma Linda, California. In this role, you will play a vital part in maintaining the environment of care for our Veterans by operating tractors, mowers, and other heavy equipment to ensure safe and well-kept grounds. This position offers a stable career within a mission-driven federal agency dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of our military heroes.
Requirements for Engineering Eqpt Operator
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Ability to pass a comprehensive federal background investigation.
- Must undergo a pre-employment urinalysis for drug screening in designated testing positions.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must be able to perform moderate to heavy physical labor, including lifting up to 50-100 lbs.
- Submission of a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit requirement.
Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Eqpt Operator
- Hands-on experience operating tractors, boom mowers, and street sweepers.
- Knowledge of landscape maintenance, including soil conditions and turf management.
- Ability to perform routine operator maintenance, including lubrication and fuel checks.
- Proficiency in maintaining accurate digital records and spreadsheets of completed tasks.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay rates.
- ✓Health and wellness programs.
- ✓Opportunities for federal career progression.
- ✓Potential for annual leave accrual credit based on prior experience.
- ✓Comprehensive federal employee benefits package.
💡 How to Apply Engineering Eqpt Operator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Engineering Eqpt Operator Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific duties and requirements listed in the job announcement.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less and formatted as a PDF.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, such as SF-50 or military records if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 26, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with specific machinery to help the hiring team understand your qualifications.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your formatting complies with the two-page limit.
- Save your resume as a PDF to maintain document integrity.
- Double-check your application status within your account dashboard after submission.
- Clearly highlight volunteer experience if you lack direct paid experience in certain areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a limit to how long my resume can be?
Yes, as of September 2025, resumes must not exceed two pages. Any submission longer than this may lead to ineligibility.
What kind of physical demands should I expect?
This is a physically active role. Expect to lift up to 50-100 pounds, spend significant time bending or kneeling, and experience vibrations from operating equipment over rough terrain.
Do veterans get preference for this role?
Because this position is filled using Direct-Hire Authority, traditional veterans' preference rules do not apply, though qualified veterans are given full consideration.
What is the work schedule?
Typically Monday through Friday, 0600 to 1430.
Is there a probation period?
Yes, a one-year probationary period is required 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 him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan." Our core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE)—guide every action we take. When you work for the VA, you aren't just an employee; you are a vital part of a support system for those who have sacrificed for our country.