Environmental Services Technician - Housekeeping Aid

The Environmental Services Technician - Housekeeping Aid position is housed within the Environmental Management Services (EMS) department at the Central Iowa Veterans Affairs Medical Center located in Des Moines, Iowa. The Medical Center is part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), a federal agency dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services to American veterans. The VA is committed to creating healing environments and personalized health plans for veterans, promoting overall health and well-being through a Whole Health System of care. This system aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) mission to honor America's veterans by delivering exceptional healthcare that improves their quality of life.

As an Environmental Services Technician - Housekeeping Aid at the Central Iowa VA Medical Center, you will play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the facility which is essential for the veteran patients and their families. The position requires you to plan and organize manpower through daily area routines that specify the daily and periodic duties required under the direct supervision of the Assistant Chief of EMS. Your role supports the primary mission of the VA medical center by ensuring that patient care areas are clean, safe, and welcoming.

This is a full-time, permanent position with working hours either from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM or from 11:00 PM to 7:30 AM, with variable days off. The position is classified under the Federal Wage System at the WG 2 pay grade with an hourly salary range of $19.06 to $22.23. The job does not have promotional potential, telework eligibility, or relocation benefits. It is represented by union 1272/AFGE.

In this role, you will perform a variety of housekeeping functions including cleaning wards, patient rooms, restrooms, offices, storerooms, and corridors to maintain a hygienic environment. Duties will involve sweeping, mopping, scrubbing floors using machines, vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture, discarding trash, and replenishing cleaning supplies such as toilet paper and towels. You will also be responsible for cleaning windows, walls, ceilings, blinds, and installing light bulbs as needed. The role requires physical endurance to perform activities such as continuous walking, standing, stooping, kneeling, and the use of heavy cleaning equipment weighing over 50 pounds.

Due to the nature of the work in a healthcare environment, there is exposure to contagious diseases, blood, and bodily fluids, necessitating the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and strict adherence to safety protocols. The role demands care to prevent injuries, especially when using power equipment or working on ladders. Your work contributes directly to the patient care experience by maintaining a safe and clean environment free of hazards.

As part of the VA Midwest Health Care Network, you will operate within a framework that emphasizes healing relationships and environments. The work culture focuses on teamwork with veterans themselves, many of whom make up the housekeeping staff. The role not only requires technical cleaning skills but also interpersonal skills to contribute positively to the overall healthcare atmosphere and veteran community.

Employees in this position are subject to a one-year probationary period to assess performance and suitability for federal employment. Additionally, annual seasonal influenza vaccination or exemption is required for health care personnel within the VA system to safeguard the health of veterans and colleagues. The position requires compliance with federal employment policies including citizenship status, background checks, suitability standards, and registration for selective services as applicable.