Motor Vehicle Operator

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Des Moines, IA is seeking a Motor Vehicle Operator to support the VA Central Iowa Health Care System.

The role involves safely operating a range of vehicles and mobile equipment to move people, medical records, laundry and supplies between the Medical Center, CBOCs, and offsite facilities. The position offers a full-time schedule (Monday–Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm) with an hourly pay range of $24.28 to $28.32.

Responsibilities

• Transports coworkers, self-care capable patients, medical records, laundry, parts, and other materials between the Medical Center, Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs), and offsite facilities.
• Determines the most efficient methods for passenger pickup and delivery; follows predetermined routes with possible detours for weather safety.
• Operates dump trucks, cargo trucks, tractors and end loaders for moving materials, files, furniture, and snow removal tasks.
• Performs grounds and facility support tasks including mowing, moving furniture, snow removal, and routine vehicle maintenance documentation.

Job description

• Department: Department of Veterans Affairs

The Motor Vehicle Operators are under the direct supervision of the Transportation and Mobile Equipment Operator Supervisor in the Engineering Service at the VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines, IA. The Motor Vehicle Operators ensures the safe, efficient, and dependable operation of a wide range of vehicles and mobile equipment.

Key Responsibilities

The major duties include but are not limited to: Transports coworkers, self-care capable patients, medical records, laundry, parts, and other materials between the Medical Center, Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs), and designated offsite facilities. Determines the most efficient methods for passenger pickup and delivery. Predetermined routes are followed, but alternate paths may be selected during inclement weather to ensure safe and timely arrival.

Operates dump trucks to move logs, leaves, trash, dirt, and similar materials using hydraulic controls and safe operating techniques. Uses cargo trucks to move boxes of files, furniture, and clean or soiled laundry, and loads are secured appropriately. Uses tractors and end loaders to load salt, deposit dirt, and push leaves, and snowplows are operated to support snow removal.

Performs labor activities needed for grounds and facility support, including mowing, moving furniture, snow removal, and related tasks. Transports vehicles off station for fueling, washing, detailing, and maintenance, which requires driving on city roads and interstates. Assesses vehicle and equipment conditions, identifies operational problems, and takes preventive steps to ensure functionality.

Conducts basic troubleshooting when operational issues arise and promptly reports findings to the supervisor to avoid potential service disruptions. Maintains accurate documentation for transportation activities, vehicle operations, and equipment maintenance. This includes logging hours of operation, mileage, fuel usage, vehicle condition before and after use, and noting any deficiencies. Performs additional duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: Full time, Monday-Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm Recruitment & Relocation Incentives: Not authorized Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not approved DESIGNATED DRUG-TESTING POSITION: Applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.

Applicants will not be appointed to the position if a verified positive drug test result is received.

Which agency is hiring for this position?

This position is with Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs.

What is the salary for this position?

The posted pay range is $24.28 - $28.32/hr.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 2026-10-27.

How many openings are available?

There are 2 openings for this position.

Who is eligible to apply?

This position is open under the 'Public' hiring path.