The Utility System Operator works within Facilities Management service line at the Central Iowa VA Health Care System, located in Des Moines, Iowa. Work performed involves the efficient operation and timely completion of maintenance repairs, preventive maintenance, inspections, station level projects and development and project management of contracted construction projects in a central boiler and chiller plant.
Major duties include: Responsible for the safe operation of the central boiler and chiller plant. Maintains proper chemistry control of boiler water, condensate, chilled water, and cooling towers through daily testing and adjustment of chemical injection and blowdown rates. Perform operator-level preventive and corrective maintenance on chillers, boilers, pumps, steam traps, and other associated equipment within the plant area.
Test, inspect, adjust, and repair all boiler controls safety devices, instrumentation, flowmeters, etc. and be able to inspect repairs and adjustments made by contractors. Use standard hand tools and specialty tools such as manometers, multi-meters, combustion analyzers, test gauges, infrared thermometers, and dead-weight testers. Read the various charts, gauges, and meters in order to determine the amount of steam being produced, fuel being consumed, water being used, etc..
Determine when it is necessary to change settings on the controls and valves in order to maintain the proper change from one fuel to the other with a minimal amount of steam pressure drop. Operate the air conditioning chillers and all related equipment listed above. Constant observation of the meters, charts, gauges, water levels, and temperatures to ensure that all systems are functioning properly.
Responsible for the operation, maintenance, and cleanliness of the plant and all related equipment located within the plant. Work Schedule: 8:00am - 8:00pm or 8:00pm to 8:00am, Variable Days-Fixed shifts Position Description Title/PD#: Utility Systems Operator-Recruitment/Relocation Authorized/PD30488A Recruitment Or Relocation Incentive: May be authorized for an eligible highly qualified individual.
The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran.
This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.
There is not educational requirement for this position.
Andrea.McGuire@va.gov · 602-277-5551 X1738
This position is with Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs.
The posted pay range is $28.35 – $33.05/hr.
Applications close on 2026-10-21.
This position is open under the 'Fed Transition' hiring path.
Source: USAJOBS.gov — U.S. Federal Government · Retrieved 2026-10-14 · Not affiliated with or endorsed by OPM or USAJOBS.gov
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