Environmental Services Technician/Housekeeping Aid

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a federal agency dedicated to serving America’s veterans and their families by providing exceptional healthcare and support services. It operates through multiple medical centers across the country, including the Omaha VA Medical Center, which is part of the VA Midwest Health Care Network. This network emphasizes a Whole Health System approach, which empowers veterans to take control of their health and well-being in a personalized and holistic manner. The Omaha VA Medical Center is committed to maintaining a healing environment where the needs of veterans are prioritized, and where employees work together to fulfill the VA's mission of honoring veterans through top-quality care and support.

The Environmental Management Services Division within the Omaha VA Medical Center plays a crucial role in ensuring that all VA facilities provide a clean, safe, and sanitary environment for veterans, their families, and staff. This division focuses on janitorial and custodial services essential to supporting the overall patient care experience at the facility.

The Environmental Services Technician position is a full-time, permanent role based in Omaha, Nebraska. The work schedule is typically from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, with days off varying and shifts discussed during the interview process. The pay scale for this role is WG 2, with hourly wages ranging from $18.06 to $21.06. The position does not have promotion potential but offers a stable career with comprehensive federal benefits.

As an Environmental Services Technician, the incumbent is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of various hospital areas, including wards, patient rooms, offices, corridors, restrooms, and other facilities. Duties encompass a wide range of housekeeping activities such as emptying trash and wastebaskets, transporting refuse and recycling materials, sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces, cleaning blinds, windows, walls, and ceilings, polishing floors, and applying floor finishes. The technician may also be tasked with replacing curtains, managing textile distribution and inventory, and performing discharge cleaning.

This position requires the use of powered cleaning equipment, including wall washers and industrial buffers, which can weigh over 50 pounds. Given the physical nature of the job, technicians must have good dexterity, hand, foot, and eye coordination, along with visual acuity to detect dirt and debris. Safety is paramount, especially when working with hazardous materials, operating heavy machinery, or working on ladders.

The role demands strict adherence to infection control protocols due to potential exposure to contagious diseases and bloodborne pathogens. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is used as necessary to minimize health risks. The Environmental Services Technician works under minimal supervision and must exhibit a strong commitment to quality and efficiency to support the VA's mission.

Overall, this position offers individuals an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of veterans by maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Employees in this role become part of a dedicated team working within a federal government framework that values service, safety, and integrity, while also providing opportunities for professional development and comprehensive benefits.