Electrical Equipment Repairer

Diagnostics and Repair

The incumbent independently performs diagnostic testing, preventive maintenance, repair, modification, assembly, adjustment, and operational testing of manual and powered wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, and related mobility equipment issued through Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS).

Interprets technical manuals, schematics, wiring diagrams, and manufacturer specifications to diagnose malfunctions and determine appropriate repair methods for electrical, electronic, and mechanical mobility equipment systems.

Utilizes voltmeters, ohmmeters, multi-meters, circuit testers, battery chargers, automatic test equipment (ATE), and other diagnostic tools in accordance with technical manuals, schematics, wiring diagrams, and manufacturer specifications to identify malfunctions and repair electrical and electronic systems.

Repairs, rebuilds, modifies, assembles, and tests electrical equipment and components for powered mobility devices, including DC motors, electronic controllers, drive assemblies, switches, gears, clutches, bearings, seals, armatures, batteries, charging system components, and related mechanical and electrical systems.

Performs troubleshooting and repair of electrical and electronic components utilizing technical data, testing equipment, and diagnostic procedures to identify defective or malfunctioning parts and restore equipment to proper operating condition.

Independently determines appropriate troubleshooting methods, repair procedures, replacement requirements, and repair feasibility based on equipment condition, technical evaluation, safety considerations, and manufacturer specifications.

Performs operational and safety inspections on mobility equipment prior to issuance.

Conducts pretest and final checkout procedures to verify equipment functionality and compliance with safety standards.

Equipment Modification and Fabrication

Adjusts and calibrates electronic controls for wheelchair and scooter operation, including hand, head, and chin controls, based on manufacturer specifications and patient functional requirements.

Fabricates, modifies, and installs adaptive components and specialized equipment for manual and powered mobility devices to support safe and effective Veteran mobility.

Adjusts restrictive devices such as belts, straps, supports, and braking systems to ensure proper equipment function and patient safety.

Technical Consultation and Equipment Support

Provides technical consultation to clinical staff regarding wheelchair functionality, equipment modifications, repair feasibility, adaptive equipment adjustments, and equipment performance.

Determines whether repairs are economically feasible based on equipment condition, repair requirements, replacement costs, and safety considerations.

Recommends replacement or condemnation of equipment when repairs are not practical or when safety concerns exist.

Inventory and Documentation

Maintains inventories of wheelchair parts, mobility equipment components, batteries, charging components, and re-issuable equipment.

Identifies reusable equipment and components suitable for reissue or parts recovery in accordance with VA regulations and cost-containment practices.

Collaborates with Prosthetic staff and clinical personnel regarding equipment availability, replacement needs, and equipment disposition per VA regulations.

Utilizes Prosthetic VistA, CPRS, and related systems to document repairs, materials used, labor, costs, serial numbers, and services provided within established timeframes.

Safety and Infection Control

Cleans and sanitizes equipment utilizing approved cleaning procedures and infection control requirements prior to repair and reissue.

Sanitizes mobility equipment in accordance with local Infection Control policies and Joint Commission standards relating to durable medical equipment.

Follows fire safety procedures, hazardous material handling guidelines, shop safety protocols, and proper storage requirements for flammable materials, tools, equipment, and supplies.

Moves and transports powered mobility devices and related equipment using safe material handling procedures.