Pipefitter, Trades ​/ Skilled Labor

Summary

This position is located in the Plumbing Shop - Facilities and Engineering Service of the Wilmington VA Medical Center. The work involves installing, modifying, and repairing new and existing interior and exterior high, medium, and low-pressure steam distribution lines, condensate return and vacuum lines, hot water heating systems, medical vacuum and oxygen systems, fire protection systems, gas and water distribution systems, and sanitary and storm sewer systems.

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

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 to demonstrate your ability to perform the duties of this position. Evidence 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 who meet the minimum acceptable qualification are considered for further rating; those who do not are rated ineligible and eliminated. Eligible candidates are then rated on the remainder of the job elements:
Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair;
Interpret Instructions – Specifications (includes blueprint reading);
Measurement and Layout;
Technical Practices;
Troubleshooting;
Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment. Experience includes paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) and other organizations. Volunteer experience can provide valuable training and may be credited. A full year of work is considered 35–40 hours per week; part‑time experience is credited based on time actually spent.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to serve a 1‑year probationary period during which your fitness and the advancement of the public interest will be evaluated. Upon completion of the probationary period, employment will continue only if you receive written certification that your continued employment advances the public interest.

• Plan and layout the installation, modification, and repair of various new and existing piping systems and equipment, including high‑pressure systems such as steam heat, steam generation, and vacuum systems, radiators, and circulating pumps.
• Plan and layout the installation and operation of supply‑disposal‑utility systems and equipment such as water and gas systems, fire sprinkler equipment, and water closets.
• Determine placement and elevation for steam generators, vacuum and condensate pumps, and radiators.
• Replace heat exchangers and expansion tanks.
• Lay out routing, openings, slope, and level of gas and water lines.
• Position and arrange water closets, sinks, and fire sprinkler equipment.
• Interpret and apply building plans and blueprints; use shop mathematics to lay out angles, arcs, and circles.
• Determine pipe, joint, and valve sizes needed to support system pressures; align pipes, valves, fittings, and joints for accurate mating; install proper braces and supports to control movement, vibration, and allow for expansion and contraction.
• Use tools and equipment such as sliding squares, measuring tapes, dividers, chalk lines, plumb bobs, templates, star drills, grinders, flanges, hand and power pipe threaders and cutters, and pipe wrenches.
• Perform duties in other areas of the M&R Section as required, such as annual leave, sick leave, work overload, and union matters.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Work schedule:
  
  Monday‑Friday 7:30 am–4:00 pm.

Evaluation of physical demands and environmental factors will be addressed at the time of pre‑employment examination.