Occupation Summary
Environmental Engineers in VHA apply engineering principles and relevant aspects of chemistry, biological and physical sciences, and mathematics to control and/or eliminate pollutants, implement systems for protecting the environment and public health, and continually improve environmental management programs and systems. The Environmental Engineer uses the knowledge and experience described above to ensure adherence to statutory, regulatory and VA/VHA environmental requirements. As the Green Environmental Management System (GEMS) Coordinator for the VA Medical Center (VAMC), the Environmental Engineer serves as a regulatory and technical specialist and assists the VAMC in solving complex environmental technology and compliance issues.
About the Program
The VHA Technical Career Field (TCF) Program hires graduate Engineers for the two-year training program, which provides the training that is necessary for the transition from school to the workplace, with many of the same benefits as other federal employees.
These graduate Engineers receive one-on-one training and mentoring for the first year by Preceptors who are experienced engineers at one of the VA’s 150 + VA medical facilities throughout the country. For the second year, interns may stay at that facility if a permanent position is available or may relocate to another VA medical facility across the country for 1 more year of on-the-job training with relocation expenses paid by the program.
During the 2 years of training, engineering interns have the opportunity to attend national conferences, core training events, and network with other interns in the program as part of a wide variety of training experiences and continuing education activities that will enhance the prospect of upward mobility in VA.
At the completion of the 2-year training, interns are converted to permanent positions at the VA medical facilities. The professional experience provided in the training program along with the vast numbers of VA ‘Boomers’ approaching retirement increases the potential for rapid promotion in this career field into leadership positions within VA.
Funding
The Technical Career Field for Engineers provides the funding for tuition and travel expenses for approved events such as national career-related conferences and continuing education courses in the job-related field. Funding occurs on a fiscal year basis and may change from one year to the next. The amount of funding available is determined each fiscal year and is contingent upon budget approval.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Graduate engineers are eligible to apply for participation in the TCF Engineering Program if they meet the following minimum qualifications:
- Applicants must have at least a BS degree in Professional Engineering from an ABET accredited program/university;
- Must be a citizen of the United States of America;
- Have a willingness to relocate to another VA site after the first year of training (if a permanent position in his/her field is not available at the training site);
- Possess a talent for communication and demonstrate potential for leadership, and Be willing to make a commitment to work for VA after completion of the 2-year training
Selection Process
Qualified applicants that are selected in the TCF training program are hired at the GS-5, GS-7 or GS-9 grade based on degree, GPA and applicable related experience according to guidelines established by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
