Utility Systems Operator

Utility Systems Operator

Department: Department of Veterans Affairs

Location(s): Las Vegas, Nevada

Salary Range: $32.79 - $38.34 Per Hour

Job Summary: The incumbent serves as a journeyman Utility Systems Operator performing tasks involved in the operation and maintenance of heating and cooling plant equipment serving a large medical center.

Major Duties:

• Operates and does minor repairs on three gas/oil fired steam boilers, total capacity 75,000 pounds of steam per hour, three (3) boiler feed-water pumps, two (2) condensate transfer pumps and associated equipment. Operates and does minor repairs on four (4) centrifugal water chillers, total capacity 4,800 tons per hour, induced draft cooling towers, four (4) chilled water pumps, four (4) condenser water pumps, and associated equipment. Operates and does minor repairs on five (5) turbo charged diesel powered electrical generators, total capacity 10,000 KW per hour, five (5) water pumps, five (5) outdoor radiators, emergency and normal 12KV electrical switchgear, and associated equipment. Incumbent starts, stops, and regulates the chillers, boilers, emergency generators, 12KV electrical switchgear, and associated equipment as load demands. Operates and performs minor repairs on the medical center's centralized energy management system computer and field components. The computer system controls all functions of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, emergency generators, 12KV electrical distribution system, fire alarm, medical gas systems, medical gas alarm system, smoke control systems, domestic water systems, and all systems and subsystems associated with the operation of the medical center. Hourly records readings from instruments located on and/or adjacent to boilers and chillers. Some readings are used in the computation of make-up water, tonnage and steam flow; others used to recognize potential or current equipment problems. Daily analyzes and records results of tests on water samples and chemically treats boiler, chilled, and condenser water systems to maintain proper treatment levels. Performs routine scheduled preventive maintenance and maintains records of scheduled operations. Performs minor repairs, such as replacing mechanical seals, bearings, valves, pipefiftings, and motors. Repairing insulation, re-packing valves and piping is also required. Monitors and communicates with appropriate persons per medical center policy concerning station fire alarms, disaster notification and medical gas alarm systems. Assists mechanics in the repair of equipment or in the off-season overhaul or maintenance of equipment. Required to perform all housekeeping tasks as instructed (sweeping, mopping, waxing, etc.) in areas, tunnels, floors, and buildings assigned to Facilities Management Service. Performs other duties as assigned as they relate to the overall mission of the service and the work of the station. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, Shift Times TBD Position Description Title/PD#: Utility Systems Operator/PD03991A Physical Requirements: Regular walking tours of the plant to conduct inspections of equipment which include some lifting, kneeling, standing, climbing and stooping. Repairs occasionally require working in awkward and cramped positions and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds.

Qualifications: 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 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: Dexterity and Safety Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair Interpret Instructions, Specifications (includes blueprint reading) Troubleshooting (Electrical) Use and Maintain Hand Tools (Electrical Work) Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment Without more than normal supervision Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) 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.

How to Apply: All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the occupational questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 11/20/2025 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12829871. 1. To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire. 2. Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package. NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date. You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete.

Application Deadline: 2025-11-20