Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic

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.