Laundry Machine Operator

Summary This position is in the Textile Care Processing Facility (TCPF) of Environmental Management Service and contributes in the processing and distribution of linen for Patient care areas within the Medical Center. Responsibilities The incumbent performs duties relating to the processing of textiles for patient care areas within the Medical Center, the VAD White City, and the Wolf Creek Job Corps. The Textile Care Machine Operator loads washer/extractors using either carts or slings by use of air, electrical, or hydraulic control panels. Selects the proper wash formula in relation to the type and condition of the textiles to be laundered and pushes the correct formula number on the washer/extractor panel. Operates four washer/extractors (3-400 lb. & 1-200 lb.) following the proper sudsing, bleaching, rinsing, souring, and dyeing procedures. As the washing process progresses, he/she checks water levels, temperature, various gauges, valves, and safety devices to insure the wash is processed through the correct cycles. Periodically makes simple chemical PH and titration tests of the break, suds, rinse, bleach, and sour operations .Keeps accurate records of loads washed, weights and the time each wash load was started. Cleans and maintains all tools, equipment, and work area. When not operating washer/extractors performs any other general washroom duties including receiving and classifying soiled textiles. During periods of leave and peak demand may be called upon to perform other related TCPF tasks. Monitors the liquid supply injection system insuring chemicals are maintained at an acceptable level. Removes difficult stains from uniforms, patients personal clothing and linens using spotting agents and a spotting table. Performs complex dyeing procedures to stained linens which requires the use of various chemical agents and dyes. Furnishes guidance and assistance to lower grade workers and patients assigned to the Textile Care Processing Facility. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 06:00am to 2:30pm Position Description Title/PD#: Laundry Machine Operator/PD30518-0 Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not approved Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Requirements Conditions of Employment You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 You may be required to serve a probationary period Subject to background/security investigation Pre-employment physical required Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP) Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details. Qualifications To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 08/07/2024. 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 ability to do the work of a Laundry Machine Operator without more than normal supervisor. Examples include: Processing of textiles for patient care areas, loads washer/extractor's using either carts or slings by use of air, electrical, or hydraulic control panels. Selects proper wash formula etc. knowledge of washer/extractor loading capacities, loads machines, knowledge of correct compounds and formulas, skill in operating washers, dryers, controls, conveyors, and sling systems etc. The potential eligibles are then rated against the remainder of the Job Elements: Dexterity and Safety Interpret Instructions, Specifications (other than blueprint reading) Materials Operation of Equipment/Machinery Technical Practices Without more than normal supervision Work Practices 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. Physical Requirements: He/she must be able to lift wet textile loads exceeding 50 lbs. Is subject to continuous and repetitive standing, walking, bending, stooping, stretching, pulling, pushing and lifting. Considerable physical effort is required in pushing certain textile loads into machines. Working Conditions: Most work is accomplished inside a building in a hot, humid, noisy environment. On a daily basis will be required to be outside when delivering textiles. Incumbent will be subject to unpleasant odors, soiled and wet textiles, lint, and wet floors. Temperatures in the work area may vary from extreme heat in the summer to cold drafts in the winter. Education This job does not have an education qualification requirement. Additional Information This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. 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. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement. Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer (TJO). Please visit the Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP), va.gov/EMPLOYEE/docs/The-Fair-Chance-to-Compete-Act.pdf for more information.