Utility Systems Repairer -Operator Helper (Technical Career Field (TCF) Trainee

This position serves as an entry level/trainee Utility System Repairer-Operator Helper located at the VA St. Louis Health Care System (VASTLHCS) assigned to the Energy Plant of the Facilities Engineering Services (FES). The trainee participates in the Technical Career Field (TCF) 2-year apprentice training program, designed to prepare the trainee for a journeyman-level position.

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.

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.

Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Federal Wage System Qualifications. For this position, the job element method is used to match what you, the applicant, can do against what the work calls for. Your knowledge, skills and abilities will be compared to the knowledge, skills and abilities (called job elements) needed for success. Your qualifications will first be evaluated against the prescribed screen out element (WG-2 and higher only;

screen-outs are not applicable to WG-1). Applicants who appear to meet the screen out element are considered for further rating; those who do not are rated ineligible and are eliminated from consideration. The potential eligibles are rated against the remainder of the job elements. While a specific length of training and experience is not required, your responses to the questionnaire must be supported by detailed descriptions of your experience on your resume.

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

• Dexterity and Safety
• Follow Directions
• Handle Weights and Loads
• Likelihood of Success
• Without more than normal supervision

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.