Utility Systems Operator

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Potential relocation incentives

Job summary

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Pittsburgh is seeking a Utility Systems Operator responsible for operation and maintenance of Utility Systems in their Facilities Management Service Line.

This role requires physical stamina, knowledge of boilers and air conditioning systems, and the ability to manage and monitor utility systems for optimal performance. Applicants should be prepared for rotating shifts covering 24/7 operations. A recruitment or relocation incentive may be available for highly qualified candidates.

Qualifications

• Experience operating and maintaining boilers and air conditioning systems.
• Ability to carry and set up equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Knowledge of computerized energy management systems.

Responsibilities

• Operate Boiler and Air Conditioning plants efficiently.
• Monitor air handlers and control systems.
• Serve as contact point for emergency repairs.
• Use judgment in managing heating and cooling systems.

Skills

Operation and maintenance of Utility Systems

Physical stamina for heavy lifting

Knowledge of air management systems

Job description

Summary

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.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. Experience: A specific length of training and experience is not required – but you must show evidence of training or experience of sufficient scope and quality of your ability to do the work of this position. Evidence which demonstrates you possess the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position must be supported by detailed descriptions of such on your resume. Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards. Screen‑out element: Your qualifications will first be evaluated against the prescribed screen‑out element – which usually appears as question 1 in the online questionnaire. Those applicants who appear to possess at least the minimal acceptable qualification requirement are considered for further rating; those who do not are rated ineligible and are eliminated. The potential eligibles are then rated against the remainder of the Job Elements.

Physical Requirements

The incumbent frequently carries and sets up parts and equipment that weigh up to 50 pounds and must be able to exert a high level of physical exertion when necessary. Hoists, holders, and pulleys are operated when removing units such as large compressors, condensers, and chillers. The incumbent makes repairs and installations from ladders, scaffolding, and platforms – where the parts of the systems worked on are frequently in hard‑to‑reach places; climbing, lifting, stooping, stretching, bending, and kneeling are frequently required. Incumbent is required to pass a physical examination annually.

Working Conditions

Most of the work is performed inside – but the incumbent is frequently subject to sudden temperature changes when working on equipment such as walk‑in freezer units. The incumbent is occasionally subjected to cuts, burns, electrical shocks, and respiratory ailments. Exposure to repeated, prolonged, or concentrated amounts of refrigerant gases may cause toxic effects to eyes, skin, and internal organs. The incumbent is also exposed to high voltage, chemicals, cleaners, and solvents. The incumbent is occasionally required to work outside – on top of tall buildings, in drafty attic spaces, and in cramped areas with low overheads. Uncomfortable facemasks and protective clothing may be occasionally worn where there is possibility of exposure to toxic refrigerants.

Duties

• 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: 6:00 am to 2:00 pm – 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm – and 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. 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.
• 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 – Chapter 3.