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

This position is located in the Engineering Service in the Boiler and Chiller Plants at the James H Quillen VA Medical Center, in Mountain Home, TN. The incumbent serves as a participant in the Technical Career Fields Program under the direction of a qualified preceptor. The Technical Career Field (TCF) is a national workforce development program within VHA that was designed to replenish technical staff in critically identified positions.

SCREEN OUT: Must possess the ability to do the work of a Utility Systems Repairer-Operator (TCF Trainee) without more than normal supervision, that includes the ability to work under the direct guidance of a supervisor or journeyman level personnel, learn theory and the advanced basics of operation of the Boiler Plant and Water Treatment Plant including natural gas and fuel oil boilers, learn and fully understand the various systems within the plants, assist with the day to day operation of the Boiler Plant and Water Treatment Plant, and successfully complete an in-house training program.

PHYSICAL EFFORT AND WORK CONDITIONS: Works from ladders, scaffolding, platforms, and elevated catwalks. Work may be at or above ground level. Frequently works in confined areas in and around boilers and support equipment. Requires moderate to strenuous effort and long periods of walking, standing, climbing, bending, reaching, stooping and crouching, as the work site dictates. Frequently lifts and carries boiler parts and chemical supplies weighing up to 50 lbs.

unassisted. Occasionally carries items weighing over 50 lbs. with assistance. Mainly works indoors but occasionally works outside for short periods of time. Subject to elevated temperatures, constant noise, rotating machinery, soot, dirt, grease, chemicals, oil and fumes. Subject to cuts and abrasions from the use of tools and equipment, and burns from acids, caustics, hot water, steam and contact with boilers.

Work on catwalks and ladders.

You will be rated on the following Competencies as part of the assessment questionnaire for this position:

• Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (Includes Blueprint Reading)
• Ability to Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
• Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation, and Repair, etc.
• Technical Practices (Theoretical, Precise, Artistic)
• Use of Measuring Instruments

IMPORTANT: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. All experience listed on your resume must include the month and year start/end dates. 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.

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; religious; 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.

For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..