Utility Systems Operator

Veterans Health Administration•Fresno, CA

About The Position

The Utility Systems Operator operates and maintains machinery that provides power for heating, cooling, and ventilation in the VA Central California Health Care System. The operator starts and stops equipment, monitors meters and safety controls, and inspects meters, gauges, valves, and instruments to ensure systems operate safely and economically. The role may involve using hand or power tools for minor machinery repairs and computerized controls to regulate systems. The operator troubleshoots and maintains utility systems and related equipment, tests and treats boiler and condensate water, and maintains water softeners and the chemical injection system. The operator records equipment readings, completes daily reports, and monitors system parameters to help maintain a comfortable environment for staff and patient care across the campus. The position operates the Johnson METASYS computer system, which controls HVAC at multiple locations. Other duties may be assigned. The work is primarily in an industrial environment and may also take place outdoors. Working conditions include frequent exposure to temperature extremes, drafts, dampness, water, and noise, as well as occasional exposure to cuts, electrical shocks, abnormal heat, boiler hazards, steam blowbacks, scalding water, toxic gas, and hazardous chemicals. The position requires substantial physical activity, including handling heavy equipment and working on ladders, scaffolding, platforms, and in confined or hard-to-reach spaces.

Requirements

Evidence of training or experience sufficient in scope and quality to demonstrate the ability to perform the position's work; no specific length of training or experience is required.
Ability to troubleshoot complete systems using testing techniques and test equipment.
Ability to assemble, install, and repair equipment; interpret instructions and specifications; use measuring instruments; and use and maintain tools and equipment.
Must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
Must complete a background/suitability investigation; random or designated drug testing may be required.
Selective Service registration is required for males born after December 31, 1959.
Must serve a one-year probationary period.
Must be in good physical condition, have good eyesight with or without glasses, and not be colorblind.
Must pass an annual physical for plant operators.
Must be able to walk, stand, bend, lift, carry, push, and pull moderately heavy and occasionally heavy loads; frequently handle parts and equipment weighing up to 100 pounds; and work from ladders, scaffolding, and platforms, including in hard-to-reach locations.
Must provide a complete application package, including a resume and transcripts where applicable; resumes longer than two pages will be ineligible beginning September 27, 2025.

Responsibilities

Troubleshoot complete utility systems using testing techniques and test equipment.
Operate and maintain pumps, valves, regulating valves, reducing stations, unit heaters, air compressor systems, piping, tanks, blowdown controls, and pollution control equipment.
Test and treat boiler water and condensate return water, maintain water softeners and the chemical injection system, and adjust chemical injection metering pumps and blowdown rates as needed.
Record readings for operating equipment and enter daily reports.
Monitor system parameters to maintain a comfortable environment for staff and patient care across the campus.
Operate the Johnson METASYS computer system controlling HVAC at various locations.
Perform minor machinery repairs using hand or power tools and carry out other assigned duties.