Utility System Operator​/Authorized

Summary

Primary purpose: perform Utility System Repairs for the medical center. Located in the Maintenance and Repair Section of Engineering Service at the Amarillo VA Health Care System, Amarillo, Texas. Recruitment/Relocation Incentive may be authorized for a highly qualified candidate.

Open & closing dates: 12/19/2025 to 06/18/2026. Salary: $26.89 to $31.37 per hour. Pay scale & grade: GS 9.

Location:

Amarillo, TX. Remote job:
No. Telework eligible:
No.

Travel required:

No. Relocation expenses reimbursed:
No. Appointment type:
Permanent.

Work schedule:

Full‑time. Service:
Competitive. Promotion potential:
None.

• Operate and maintain high‑pressure boilers, centrifugal chillers, cooling towers, and an ice plant, including associated equipment.
• Check control panels for boiler systems, monitor fire alarms, medical gas panels, elevator emergency call systems, and checkpoint monitors for temperature and humidity.
• Repacks and replaces pumps, valves, greasing oil, and control linkages.
• Maintain proper chemistry control of boiler feed water and condensate return.
• Maintain air‑conditioning plans and peripheral equipment including air handling units, fan coil units, pumps, piping, heating and ventilation units, exhaust fans, and related equipment.
• Adjust and repair central air‑conditioning, heating, and ventilation units, exhaust fans, and associated ductwork.
• Repair closed systems for chilled water and air‑conditioning for units such as Operating Room and Intensive Care.
• Check operation of EMCS and checkpoint systems.
• Maintain an accurate log of conditions and events; turnover items requiring further attention to the appropriate shop.

Rotating shifts: 7:00 am‑7:00 pm, 7:00 pm‑7:00 am, 7:00 am‑3:00 pm, 3:00 pm‑11:00 pm.

• You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
• Subject to a background/suitability investigation.
• Designated and/or random drug testing may be required.
• Selective Service registration required for males born after 12/31/1959.
• A complete application package, including resume and transcripts, is required.
• Selected applicants will complete an online onboarding process; acceptable forms of identification are required.
• Effective 05/07/2025, driver’s licenses or state‑issued identification cards that are not REAL  cannot be used for employment.

A 1‑year probationary period will evaluate your suitability and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. Employment may be terminated if goals are not met.

Applicants must meet all requirements by the announcement closing date. Evidence of sufficient training or experience to perform the duties is required. Screening will evaluate competency against the following job elements:
Dexterity and Safety;
Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair;
Interpret Instructions, Specifications;
Machine Tools;
Measuring Instruments;
Technical Practices; and minimal supervision.

This position does not have a specific education qualification requirement.

The U.S. federal government offers a comprehensive benefits package to employees and their families.