Environmental Services Technician; Housekeeping Aid

Summary The position is located within the Environmental Management Services Division at the Fort Wayne – Indiana VA Medical Center, part of the Northern Indiana Healthcare System (NIHCS). The incumbent reports directly to the Housekeeping Supervisor or designated representative and is responsible for performing both janitorial and custodial services at the facility.

• Applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. A specific length of training and experience is not required, but candidates must demonstrate sufficient training or experience to perform the duties of this position.
• Evidence must show knowledge, skills, and ability to perform duties. Applicants will be rated according to the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards.
• Screen‑out element will be applied first. Eligible applicants are subsequently rated against remaining job elements including Dexterity, Safety, Instruction, Tools, and Experience.
• Volunteer work is credited if it contributes to required competencies, including service through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) or other community organizations.

• Support Veterans and their families by maintaining cleanliness and safety throughout the facility.
• Clean and sanitize patient rooms, wards, restrooms, offices, corridors, storerooms, and other areas.
• Keep supplies stocked, including paper towels, soap, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.
• Sweep, mop, scrub floors; vacuum carpets and furniture; clean windows, ceilings, and light fixtures.
• Move furniture, climb small ladders, handle spills, take out trash, change liners, install light bulbs, and keep floors polished.
• Maintain patient care refrigerators and ice machines.
• Make beds, clean mattresses and bed frames, and tidy patient rooms and observation spaces.
• Transport trash, medical waste, and recycling to collection points.
• Clean and disinfect high‑touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, elevator buttons, handrails, and switches.
• Restock and organize cleaning carts and storage areas.
• Assist with setting up rooms for special events or meetings.
• Report maintenance issues or safety hazards to appropriate staff.
• Maintain outdoor areas by sweeping entrances, picking up litter, and ensuring walkways are clear.
• Respond to requests for additional cleaning or support from staff and patients.
• Follow infection‑control policies and procedures, including proper handling and disposal of waste.
• Assist with linen distribution and collection throughout the facility.
• Provide excellent customer service to patients, visitors, and staff.
• Operate with minimal supervision, demonstrating reliability and initiative.

Physical Requirements The position requires continuous walking, standing, stooping, kneeling, pulling, and pushing. The work may involve the use of heavy‑powered cleaning equipment weighing over 50 pounds. Duties necessitate fine hand‑foot‑eye coordination, concentration, and visual acuity to detect dirt, dust, and debris.