Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic

Summary

This Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic position is located within the Engineering Service at the VA Boston Healthcare System in Jamaica Plain, MA.

NOTE: This is an open and continuous job opportunity announcement.Certificates are issued on an unannounced periodic basis based on requests from management. Applications will be evaluated and referred for selection as vacancies occur within the organization. This announcement may close at any time once all positions are filled.

This job is open to

• The public
  
  U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Clarification from the agency

ALL US CITIZENS DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY: This position is being filled using Direct-Hire Authority (5 CFR 337.201) for this occupation in accordance with Office of Personnel Management approved Direct Hire Authority VA-010, in accordance with 5 U.S.C 3304(a)(3) and 5 C.F.R. 337.205(b)(1)-(4). VHA approves VA-010 through December 31, 2028, at all grade levels (or equivalent) and all VHA locations nationwide in the occupations and series listed below: Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic, WG-5306.

Duties

The Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic independently inspects, repairs, overhauls, services, and maintains a variety of complex air conditioning, refrigeration, medical air and vacuum systems, and services/maintains the fire alarm system which incorporates a variety of complex electronic and pneumatic control systems.

• Performs duties involved in the inspection, repair, overhaul, service, and maintenance of a variety of complex air conditioning, refrigeration, medical air and vacuum systems.
• Services and maintains the fire alarm systems which incorporate a variety of complex electronic and pneumatic control systems.
• Determines appropriate response to take in case of breakdown/malfunctions during the shift based on impacts on health and safety (determines whether immediate action is needed such as calling in a Supervisor or contractor; or whether the more routine repairs can be completed later).
• Maintains and performs repairs, testing, calibrations, troubleshooting, modifications, replacements and installations of automatic temperature controls, controllers, relays, valve and damper actuators, pneumatic and electronic control components, thermostats, etc.
• Maintains and performs repairs, calibrations, testing, troubleshooting, modifications, replacements and installations of refrigeration equipment to include chillers, air conditioning units, coils, freezers, coolers, walk in coolers, air dryers and dehumidifying equipment, ice machines, and other similar equipment.
• Inspects, maintains, and repairs air handling equipment in patient/isolation rooms.
• Maintains and repairs all medical, dental, sterilization, and surgical gas supply systems equipment; dust collection and medical vacuum equipment; clinical and morgue air handling/cooling systems; blood storage areas; walk-in coolers and freezers; equipment in research areas requiring special humidity and temperature control systems; hot water converters, etc.
• Dismantles, repairs, and reassembles units such as pumps, impellers, compressors, chillers, receivers and evaporators.
• Locates trouble before dismantling and to make repairs which insure proper functioning after assembly.
• Visually checks for leaks and makes audible examination of equipment components for proper operation.
• Applies prescribed test procedures and explores probable reasons for equipment failure.
• Utilizes Computer Process Controls (CPCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment and alarm systems, maintains records and performs all service and maintenance repairs in accordance with VA and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.
• Monitors and evaluates effectiveness (including safety, infection control, etc.) of work performed by contractors.
• Measures, calculates, balances, and adjusts cubic feet per minute (CFM) readings for air handling systems.
• Reads, interprets, and applies technical equipment manuals that are used in the maintenance and repair of equipment and systems.
• Uses a computer controlled system that covers a variety of electronic and pneumatically controlled air conditioning systems and units using several types of Freon and glycol refrigerants, chillers, hundreds of individual vents with associated special pumps to include chemical additives, air handling ducts, fan units, cooling towers chilled water systems, hazardous materials exhaust hoods, smoke ejections fans, etc.
• Uses a portable hand held computer device to query and reprogram individual units.
• Operates a variety of electronic equipment such as volt and ohm meters, torches and brazing equipment, a variety of hand tools, such as pneumatic calibration equipment, air flow measuring devices, refrigerant gauges, etc.

Work Schedule: To be determined by management

Position Description Title/PD#: Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic/PD#523-01017-A

Recruitment/Relocation Incentive: Not authorized

Permanent Change of Station/Moving Expenses: Not authorized

Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): This occupation is currently approved for a Veterans Health Administration enterprise-wide Critical Skills Incentive through 10/05/2024. Candidates may be eligible for a lump sum CSI for a pro-rated amount if onboard prior to the CSI expiration date. Eligible candidates will be required to sign a service agreement agreeing to an obligated service period and failure to complete the obligated service period may result in a debt for the unearned portion of the CSI.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

• You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this job
• Subject to a background/suitability investigation
• May serve a probationary period
• Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
• A complete application package; Resume, Transcripts, etc.
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process

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:

• Ability to Do the Work of the Position without More Than Normal Supervision
• 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.
• Knowledge of Materials
• Technical Practices (Theoretical, Precise, Artistic)
• Troubleshooting

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.

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT: The position requires a current Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) Universal Technician Certification. This is in accordance with Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. (NOTE: You will be required to provide a copy of the certification if referred for interview).

Skills and Knowledge Required by the Position:

• The position requires a specialized knowledge of electronic and pneumatic controls and the construction characteristics of air conditioning, refrigeration and heating systems, and air/gas handling systems to maintain critical climatic conditions.
• The position requires knowledge of the contacts of the current contractors.
• The position requires knowledge of the safety policies and procedures of the VA, EPA, OSHA, NFPA, JCAHO, and other clinical and administrative safety organizations.
• The position requires a practical knowledge of electronics and related computer controls systems.
• The position requires the ability to read and evaluate schematic diagrams and blueprints.
• The position requires the ability to operate a variety of electronic equipment such as volt and ohm meters, torches and brazing equipment, a variety of hand tools, such as pneumatic calibration equipment, air flow measuring devices, refrigerant gauges, etc.
• The position requires the ability to read, interpret, and apply technical equipment manuals that are used in the maintenance and repair of equipment and systems.
• The position requires the ability to respond effectively to emergencies and to communicate effectively with a wide variety of personnel.
• The position requires the ability to locate trouble before dismantling and to make repairs which insure proper functioning after assembly.
• The position requires the ability to dismantle, repair, and reassemble units such as pumps, impellers, compressors, chillers, receivers and evaporators.
• The position requires the ability to visually check for leaks and make audible examination of equipment components for proper operation.
• The position requires the ability to apply prescribed test procedures and to explore probable reasons for equipment failure.
• The position requires EPA certification in order to handle and remove handle CFC's and HCFCs.

Physical Requirements: Moderate to heavy physical effort is required due to the size and location of the equipment. The employee frequently lifts, carries sets up parts and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Occasionally heavier weights. The incumbent frequently has to bend, stoop, reach and hold awkward positions due to the cramped spaces with a lot of equipment and pipes, or ducts in the way. Works in high areas due to equipment that is placed on the roof and sometimes not easily accessible. Makes repairs and installations from ladders, scaffolding and platforms where the parts of systems worked on are frequently in hard-to-reach places; therefore, stooping, stretching, bending and kneeling are frequently for long periods of time. Must have good color perception and eye and hand coordination.

Work Environment: The incumbent works indoors and outside. While outside the employee is subject to all sorts of climatic conditions. The employee has to exhibit care in his/her practices due to the occupational hazards from variety of machinery such as motors, pumps, fans, hot or cold areas, falls, high voltage areas, falls, etc. Wears appropriate safety equipment and follows safety policies and procedures., The employee will occasionally be required to work outside, on top of buildings, in drafty attic spaces, and in cramped areas with low overheads. Subject to cuts, burns, electrical shocks and respiratory ailments. Employee uses/wears any safety equipment or other items required and provided by the employer.

Education

This job does not have an education qualification requirement.

Additional information

Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.

The Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) and Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provide eligible displaced VA competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. To be well-qualified, applicants must possess experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors if applicable, and must be proficient in most of the requirements of the job. Information about ICTAP and CTAP eligibility is on OPM's Career Transition Resources website which can be found at https://www.opm.gov/.

Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employee's credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.

This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

• Benefits
  
  A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
  
  Review our benefits
  
  Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE WILL NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Applicants will be referred in the order in which they were received.

Narrative responses are not required at this time. If you are referred for consideration, you may be asked to submit additional job related information, which may include, but not limited to; responses to the knowledge, skills and abilities; completion of a work sample, and/or contact for an interview. Your resume and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment.

Resume Reminder: Your resume must include the following information each job listed:

1. Job title
2. Duties (be as detailed as possible)
3. Month & year start/end dates (e.g. June 2007 to April 2008)
4. Full-time or part-time status (include hours worked per week)

Please be aware that your answers will be verified against information provided on your resume.

Be sure that your resume clearly supports your responses to all of the questions by addressing your work experience in detail.

• Current and former Federal employees must submit copies of their most recent SF-50, (Notice of Personnel Action). The SF-50 must identify the position title, series, grade, step, tenure and type of service (Competitive or Excepted). In some cases, more than one SF-50 may be required to show a higher grade previously held.
• This position is in the Competitive Service.
• The restriction on movement following competitive appointment under 5 CFR 337.205 applies for the first 90 days.
• This position is covered by Federal Wage System Special Wage Rates for Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic in the Boston, Massachusetts Wage Area, AC-C068, Issue Date: January 8, 2024, Effective Date: October 22, 2023. SPECIAL RATES FOR AIR CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT MECHANIC AT: Department of Veteran Affairs Boston Healthcare System, MA, AC Equipment Mechanic WG-5306-8 and above.
• Individuals appointed under Direct Hire Authority procedures receive appointments to competitive service positions. Consistent with 5 C.F.R. 315.801, 5 C.F.R. 315.802 and 5 C.F.R. 316.304, an individual is required to serve a 01-year probationary period unless the individual has prior service that counts toward completion of the probationary period.
• Veterans' preference in hiring does not apply when selecting individuals under VA's Direct Hire Authority. When hiring under Direct Hire Authority, the law allows selecting officials to hire applicants without regard to 5 U.S.C. 3309-3318, which eliminates the requirement for applying Veterans' preference. VA HR Offices may assess and select any qualified applicant in the order applicants are received.

• Benefits
  
  A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
  
  Review our benefits
  
  Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
• Required Documents
  
  As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.
  
  IMPORTANT: Please ensure your resume include up-to-date contact information (phone number(s), email address(s), etc.)
  
  Documents Accepted:
  
  
  • Cover Letter
  • DD-214/ Statement of Service
  • Disability Letter (Schedule A)
  • Disability Letter (VA)
  • License
  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) Universal Technician Certification. This is in accordance with Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.
  • Performance Appraisal
  • Professional Certification
  • Resume
  • Separation Notice (RIF)
  • SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
  • Transcript
  
  
  Documents Required:
  
  
  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) Universal Technician Certification. This is in accordance with Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.
  • Resume
  
  
  Please review the above list(s) to ensure you have included all necessary documents required for your application.Not every applicant will require the same documents, therefore it is the applicants responsibility to ensure that their application package includes all necessary documents to determine qualifications and eligibility for appointment, such as a copy of your SF-50, transcript, ICTAP/CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees).You will not be contacted for additional information. Applicants will be deemed ineligible if supporting documentation is not submitted.
  
  Veterans' Preference: Since the Direct-Hire Recruitment Authority is being used, traditional Veterans' Preference rules do not apply. Qualified veterans will, however, be given full consideration for this position.
  
  Applications are accepted online. Applying online will allow you to review and track the status of your application.
• 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 12/31/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12250106.
  
  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. To verify your application is complete, log into your USAJOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the More Information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process.
  
  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.
  
  Agency contact information
  
  Jonathan Montgomery
  
  Phone
  
  734-905-2529
  
  Email
  
  JONATHAN.MONTGOMERY@VA.GOV
  
  Address
  
  VA Boston Healthcare System
  
  940 Belmont Street
  
  Brockton, MA 02301
  
  US
  
  Next steps
  
  After the vacancy announcement closes, applicants are evaluated to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email.
  
  Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
• Fair and Transparent
  
  The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
  
  
  • Criminal history inquiries
  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
  • Financial suitability
  • New employee probationary period
  • Privacy Act
  • Reasonable accommodation policy
  • Selective Service
  • Signature and false statements
  • Social security number request

Required Documents

IMPORTANT: Please ensure your resume include up-to-date contact information (phone number(s), email address(s), etc.)

Documents Accepted:

• Cover Letter
• DD-214/ Statement of Service
• Disability Letter (Schedule A)
• Disability Letter (VA)
• License
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) Universal Technician Certification. This is in accordance with Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.
• Performance Appraisal
• Professional Certification
• Resume
• Separation Notice (RIF)
• SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
• Transcript

Documents Required:

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) Universal Technician Certification. This is in accordance with Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.
• Resume

Please review the above list(s) to ensure you have included all necessary documents required for your application.Not every applicant will require the same documents, therefore it is the applicants responsibility to ensure that their application package includes all necessary documents to determine qualifications and eligibility for appointment, such as a copy of your SF-50, transcript, ICTAP/CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees).You will not be contacted for additional information. Applicants will be deemed ineligible if supporting documentation is not submitted.

Veterans' Preference: Since the Direct-Hire Recruitment Authority is being used, traditional Veterans' Preference rules do not apply. Qualified veterans will, however, be given full consideration for this position.

Applications are accepted online. Applying online will allow you to review and track the status of your application.

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 12/31/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12250106.

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. To verify your application is complete, log into your USAJOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the More Information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process.

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.

Agency contact information

Jonathan Montgomery

Phone

734-905-2529

Email

JONATHAN.MONTGOMERY@VA.GOV

Address

VA Boston Healthcare System

940 Belmont Street

Brockton, MA 02301

US

Next steps

After the vacancy announcement closes, applicants are evaluated to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email.

Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.

Fair & Transparent

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

• Criminal history inquiries
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
• Financial suitability
• New employee probationary period
• Privacy Act
• Reasonable accommodation policy
• Selective Service
• Signature and false statements
• Social security number request