Boiler Plant Operator

Summary

The position is located at the Johnathan M Wainwright VA Medical Center in Walla Walla, WA, the incumbent will fill in on various shifts and performs duties within the Boiler Plant Section, Facilities Management Service. The position is within the Facilities Management Service where the incumbent works under the supervision of the Maintenance and Operation Supervisor. The incumbent's role is critical in ensuring continuous, safe, and efficient operation of boilers and associated systems.

Duties

Duties include but are not limited to: Performing periodic visual checks and monitoring equipment to ensure proper operation. Operating manual and automatic control instruments and high-pressure gas/oil-fired boilers for continuous boiler plant operation. Observing and interpreting gauge readings, indicators, flow meters, and charts to determine steam evaporation and necessary adjustments. Making system operation determinations; activating pressure reducing valves, starting/stopping water pumps, etc. Checking and adjusting feed water regulators and pumps and maintaining constant observation of meters and fuel gas-temperature records. Performing water sample collection and tests to determine chemical treatments needed. Operating station reverse osmosis water systems and conducting periodic tests, regeneration, and backwashing water softener. Accomplishing system/equipment repairs or adjustments. Operating and testing fire/disaster alarm equipment and managing emergency communications. Developing and maintaining knowledge of the Department of Veterans Affairs boiler safety directives and relevant procedures. Maintaining accurate logs and documentation. Work Schedule: Sunday through Tuesday; 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Wednesday through Thursday; 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight). Position Description Title/PD#: Boiler Plant Operator/PD80712A Physical Requirements: Exertion: Moderate to heavy physical exertion is required, including lifting up to 40 pounds, transporting and handling tools/materials, and working in various positions (kneeling, stretching, climbing, etc.). Movement: Work involves significant walking, standing, climbing ladders, and performing tasks in confined spaces or awkward positions. Coordination: Requires coordination of hand, eye, leg, and body movements. Working Conditions: Potential Hazards: Exposure to high temperatures, equipment noise, boiler bursts, gas line ruptures, carbon monoxide, scalds, burns, and hazardous substances. Independent Operation: Operates with significant independence during non-standard hours and is responsible for all aspects of plant operation during these times. Safety Practices: Adheres to strict safety protocols and practices in all aspects of work.

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 Inspect Interpret Instructions, Specifications (other than blueprint reading) Measuring Instruments Operation of Equipment/Machinery Technical Practices 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.

Education

There is no educational substitute for this grade level.