Utility Systems Operator

This position is located in the VA Pittsburgh Health Care System's Facilities Management Service Line and reports to the Utility Systems supervisor. The incumbent is responsible for operation and maintenance of the Utility Systems and may be required to work at both divisions - HJ Heinz and University Drive. The certificate will be utilized until it expires for any and all upcoming vacancies. The cut off dates to issue certificates will be every two weeks starting 6/30/2026.

Duties include but not limited to: Proper and efficient operation of the Boiler and Air Conditioning plants and auxiliary equipment to maintain a steady supply of steam and chilled water for the medical center. Monitors and controls air handlers, hot water and chilled water systems, pumps, fans, etc., via the computerized energy management system. Serve as central point of contact for Patient Care Coordinators (PCC) during off-tour hours and weekends to contact FMS tradesman, supervisors and/or managers to report for urgent or emergency repairs at the medical center. Works on boilers, boiler plant control systems, computerized management systems, tank level measuring systems, associated pumps, valves, and auxiliary equipment. Monitors and maintains close control of air conditioning systems for specialized areas such as computer rooms, Pharmacies, OR rooms, research and animal facilities, intensive care areas, MRI and CAT scans, and Radiation Therapy areas that require close control of temperature and/or humidity. Monitor the Energy Management System and take calls from medical center personnel pertaining to any utility systems or equipment outages and contact the necessary personnel to make proper repairs. Use independent judgment in starting up and shutting down heating and cooling systems for comfort, protection, and energy conservation, requiring the incumbent to apply knowledge of all phases of plant operations with a high degree of accuracy. Work Schedule: 6:00am to 2:00pm, 2:00pm to 10:00pm, and 10:00pm to 6:00am. Rotating shifts for coverage 24 hours/day, 7 days a week to include weekends and holidays Position Description Title/PD#: Utility Systems Operator/PD00279-A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: May Be Authorized. A recruitment or relocation incentive may be paid to a Highly Qualified candidate. Note: Definition of Highly Qualified Candidates: Candidates who possess unique skills and competencies needed to perform critical mission-essential functions. Per OPM.gov, to be Highly Qualified, the candidates are considered by the Human Resources Office and the subject matter expert (selecting official) as being highly proficient in all the requirements of the job and can perform effectively in the position almost immediately or with a minimum amount of training and/or orientation. (Highly Qualified is not defined by years of experience alone). Refer to VA Handbook 5007, Part VI, Ch. 3

You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this job Subject to a background/suitability investigation Designated and/or random drug testing may be required Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 A complete application package; including Resume, Transcripts, etc. is required Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.