Tractor Operator

This Tractor Operator (Motor Vehicle Operator) position is in the Grounds and Transportation section of the Facility Management Service (FMS), at Salem VA Medical Center (VAMC). Primary duties involve the operation of field type tractors and mowers with attached, tow and push type equipment.

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 06/12/2026.

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:

• Interpret Instructions, Specifications (mobile equipment operations)
• Operation of Equipment/Machinery
• Vehicle Maintenance

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/Working Conditions: Daily duties include climbing into and out of vehicles in all weather, lifting of heavy freight, equipment, supplies, etc.; climbing stairs, loading and unloading patients in wheelchairs and driving long hours. Incumbent must be of good physical condition and have good coordination of eyes, hands, and feet, as well as good vision and depth perception. Incumbent must be mentally alert to traffic hazards and dangers of the highway. Physical efforts require lifting, climbing, stooping, and working in cramped positions possibly lasting long periods of time.

Incumbent is exposed to all types of weather including extreme heat and cold, wind, rain, ice, and snow. Incumbent is exposed to dust and fumes often requiring use of dust masks and/or respirators. Incumbent is also subject to cuts and falls when using hand tools, ladders, chain saws, or any type of motorized equipment. Incumbent has the potential of being exposed to patients with all types of diseases, colds, and viruses while transporting in closed vehicles. Universal infection control precautions shall be practiced. Overtime and shift changes are likely due to seasonal demands of the Grounds and Transportation Department. Mandatory Training Requirements: The incumbent must obtain certification via on-the-job training as a registered technician with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) to spray pesticides within 6 months of employment and sustain recertification every two years. Must be able to pass an annual respirator face mask fitting test. The incumbent must become certified within 6 months of employment via on-the-job- training to operate an aerial boom lift and be recertified every two years to trim trees and cut down tall trees and must not have a fear of heights. The incumbent must become certified within 6 months of employment via on-the-job training to operate a boom forklift and be recertified every two years to be able to load and unload supplies, materials, and equipment weighing over 100 pounds.