Utility Systems Repairer-Operator

Summary

Utility System Repairer/Operator (USRO) in the Boiler Plant – Engineering Service. This position is under the immediate supervision of the Boiler Plant Operator Supervisor and performs shift work at the Dayton VA Medical Center. The incumbent performs the operation, repair, and maintenance of steam boilers, accessories, and auxiliary equipment.

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. 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 demonstrating you possess the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position must be supported by detailed descriptions 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 – usually 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 eliminated. The potential eligibles are then rated against the remainder of the Job Elements:
Dexterity, Safety Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair;
Interpret Instructions, Specifications (including blueprint reading);
Materials Measuring Instruments;
Operation of Equipment/Machinery;
Reliability and Dependability;
Troubleshooting;
Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) and other organizations. Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Note:

A full year of work is 35‑40 hours per week. Part‑time experience will be credited based on actual time spent. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate the nature of their duties and responsibilities and the number of hours per week spent.

• Disassemble and repair various sizes and types of heavy industrial heating equipment
• Clean parts using solvent–steam–air
• Fit parts and reassemble units, including checking, removing, and replacing bearings, gauges, pressure regulators, valves, heating coils, traps, burners and related components
• Repair fireboxes under boilers and refractories in boiler fireboxes
• Replace baffles and tubes in boilers by rolling ends
• Wash boilers and clean fireboxes
• Remove and install equipment by bolting/unbolting from frames
• Measure, cut, and thread pipes of various sizes
• Read and interpret maintenance‑repair manuals and prints
• Overhaul feed water pumps, condensate return pumps, brine pumps, and fuel oil pumps (steam or electrically driven)
• Overhaul pump governors, feed water regulators, valves (gate, globe, needle), and pressure‑reducing diaphragms
• Test and treat water for steam production and cooling systems
• Maintain proper water levels and constant steam pressure
• Operate and monitor four high‑pressure boilers (120,000 lbs/hr) and associated equipment – storage tank deaerator, pre‑heater, steam station, flow controls, water softener, high‑pressure pumps, air compressors, air dryers and related controls
• Read and analyze meters, gauges, and valve control settings
• Adjust controls to maintain safe and efficient boiler and auxiliary equipment operation
• Adjust fuel and air ratios for optimum efficiency
• Maintain predetermined boiler pressures while meeting changing load requirements
• Engage auxiliary and accessory equipment – induced draft fans, soot blowers, fuel handling equipment, valves, softeners
• Perform pre‑operational checks before starting boilers and firing equipment
• Apply judgment in boiler operation under emergency conditions (boiler failure, power outages, low/high water conditions)
• Test and set boiler safety devices per established safety program
• Maintain shift operating logs – record meter readings, calculate boiler efficiency, fuel and water consumption, and document fuel receipts
• Report problems and activities related to plant operation
• Operate standby emergency diesel‑electric generator during primary power outages
• Maintain operating logs and perform required maintenance
• Perform all preventive and predictive maintenance to ensure safe and efficient operation of machinery and equipment
• Respond to all calls after normal working hours
• Work schedule will rotate and can include any shift on any day of the week (Monday through Sunday)
• Position Description Title/PD#:
  Utility Systems Repairer‑Operator/PD02185A