Utility Systems Operator

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the Boiler and Air Conditioning plants and auxiliary equipment to ensure a steady supply of steam and chilled water for the medical center.
• Monitor and control air handlers, hot water and chilled water systems, pumps, fans, etc., via the computerized energy management system.
• Serve as the central point of contact for Patient Care Coordinators (PCC) during off-tour hours and weekends to coordinate urgent or emergency repairs at the medical center.
• Perform work on boilers, boiler plant control systems, computerized management systems, tank level measuring systems, associated pumps, valves, and auxiliary equipment.
• Maintain 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 respond to calls from medical center personnel regarding utility systems or equipment outages, contacting necessary personnel for repairs.
• Apply independent judgment in starting up and shutting down heating and cooling systems for comfort, protection, and energy conservation.

Requirements

Works on boilers, boiler plant control systems, computerized management systems, tank level measuring systems, associated pumps, valves, and auxiliary equipment.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Additional information

The Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) and Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provide eligible displaced VA competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. To be well-qualified, applicants must possess experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors if applicable, and must be proficient in most of the requirements of the job. Information about ICTAP and CTAP eligibility is on OPM's Career Transition Resources website which can be found at https://www.opm.gov/.