Utility Systems Repairer-Operator; Technical Career Field; TCF Trainee

Summary

This is an entry-level position and is aligned under the Facilities Management Service at the VA Western Colorado HCS. The incumbent serves as a participant in the Technical Career Fields (TCF) Program under the direction of a qualified preceptor. The TCF is a national workforce development program within VHA that was designed to replenish technical staff in critically identified positions. This is a career ladder program that progresses from WG-5 through WG-8 and WG-9.

To qualify for this position - applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement - 06/18/2026.

EXPERIENCE:

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 which demonstrates you possess the knowledge - skills - and ability to perform the duties of this position must be supported by detailed descriptions of such 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 - which usually appears as question 1 in the on-line 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 are eliminated. The potential eligibles are then rated against the remainder of the Job Elements:
Interpret Instructions - Specifications (includes blueprint reading) Technical Practices 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 (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.

Note:

A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment.

Works from ladders - scaffolding - and platforms where parts of the system are in hard to reach places. Work is carried out in tiring positions such as standing - crouching - stooping - kneeling and prone for long periods of time. Occasionally the incumbent will be required to lift items in excess of 70 pounds and 100 pounds with assistance.

Working Conditions:

Exposed to hazards of refrigerants - fumes - boiler bursts - steam blow backs - flame blow backs - scalding water - burns and electrical shock. Exposed frequently to temperature extremes - high noise levels - drafts - dampness - and water - and noise for work outdoors - exposed to the elements. Incumbent will frequently encounter ladders - catwalks - confined spaces - and be subjected to hazards normally encountered in the trade and may be exposed to asbestos.

• The TCF career fields represent those technical fields where VA-specific knowledge and experience is desirable for success in the field
• Individuals selected follow a formal training plan for two years during which they are trained - coached - and supervised by a preceptor
• Preceptors are selected annually - through an extensive application process - for their technical expertise - their commitment to training and the suitability of their facility as a training location
• Selectees will be required to sign Mobility - Training - and Continued Service Agreements
• This is a developmental position leading to a GS-09 - performing assignments intended to broaden skills and provide practical experience leading to progressively more complex…