Electrical Engineering Technician Job in Washington, DC

Vacancy No. PM-2026-0009 Department Public Buildings Service
Salary $70,623.00 to $133,142.00 Grade 09 to 12
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 7/23/2026 Close Date 8/7/2026
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Washington, DC


Electrical Engineering Technician

General Services Administration
Public Buildings Service

Summary

As an Electrical Engineering Technician, you will work in a Power Generation Plant operating and performing technical support and maintenance of the operation of back-up power and cooling plants and their distribution systems.

The Office of Facilities Management is responsible for providing facilities related solutions and services to Federal tenants across the nation.

We are currently filling four vacancies, but additional vacancies may be filled as needed.

This job is open to

The public

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Duties

  • Performs repairs to generating plant equipment, auxiliary equipment including ventilating systems, fans, oil distribution and transfer system, distribution systems the need for which is indicated by test and examinations.
  • Actively engages with exemplary competence in overall system daily and special operations, including start-up and shut-down of the total system or portions thereof, and start-up and tests for new systems and equipment to ensure manufacturer recommendations are followed.
  • Makes regular inspections of work, conducts engineering tests, furnishes technical assistance to supervisors and initiates or recommends corrective action or improvements in the operation, maintenance, repair and administration of the plant.
  • Performs power and cooling plant electrical equipment and controls systems analyses to improve plant operation and maintenance practices and procedures and identifies and develops implementation plans for alternative measures which will enhance the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the plant operation.
  • Performs equipment and system analyses to improve facilities and distribution system operating and maintenance practices and procedures and identifies and develops alternative measures which will enhance the efficiency and cost effectiveness of system operation.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

  • US Citizens and National (Residents of American Samoa and Swains Island)
  • Meet all eligibility criteria within 30 days of the closing date
  • Register with Selective Service if you are a male born after 12/31/1959

If selected, you must meet the following conditions:

  • Current or Former Political Appointees: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C or Non­Career SES employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the HR Office. Failure to disclose this information could result in disciplinary action including removal from Federal Service.
  • Serve a one year probationary period, if required.
  • Undergo and pass a background investigation (Tier 5 investigation level).  You must be granted this clearance before you can start the job.
  • Have your identity and work status eligibility verified if you are not a GSA employee.  We will use the Department of Homeland Security’s e-Verify system for this. Any discrepancies must be resolved as a condition of continued employment.
  • The incumbent of this position may be subject to drug testing.
  • The incumbent will be part of a group of U.S. Government and contractor professionals that are on-call 24 hours, 7 days per week, 365 days per year in support of mission requirements. This position may frequently extend beyond the normal duty work day to meet mission requirements.
  • The incumbent of this position will be designated as an Essential Employee for purposes of weather-related events or other short-term, isolated emergencies.
  • Physical demands may be encountered in fieldwork activities such as operation, inspection, monitoring and evaluation. Physical demands imposed are those of climbing over, under and around equipment, walking through tunnels, using catwalk and ladders, and some bending and light lifting.
  • Work is performed in and around plant facilities on activities such as operation, inspection, monitoring and evaluation. The incumbent is subject to exposure to risks and discomforts, such as, noise, dirt, inclement weather, chemicals, fuels, boiler- effluent gases, inherent risk potential of a "hard hat" environment, asbestos, high temperatures and humidity. In these facilities safety equipment such as hard hats, safety shoes, and eye protection are worn. Specialized equipment for asbestos may also be required. Some work is performed in an office setting.

Qualifications

For each job on your resume, provide:

  • the exact dates you held  each job (from month/year to month/year)
  • number of hours per week you worked (if part time).    

If you have volunteered your service through a National Service program (e.g., Peace Corps, Americorps), we encourage you to apply and include this experience on your resume.

The GS-09 salary range starts at $70,623 per year.

The GS-10 salary range starts at $77,771 per year. 

The GS-11 salary range starts at $85,447 per year. 

The GS-12 salary range starts at $102,415 per year. 

If you are a new federal employee, your starting salary will likely be set at the Step 1 of the grade for which you are selected.  

To qualify at the GS-09 grade level, you must meet one of the following:

A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-08level or higher in the Federal service. Specialized experience is experience with the basic maintenance and operation of electrical power generation systems and their major components (e.g., switchgears, diesel generators, transformers, motors, fans, and HVAC), including basic control and monitoring mechanisms; familiarity with electrical and electronic principles related to backup power and distribution systems; assisting with backup utility operations, experience performing and documenting routine preventative maintenance, basic troubleshooting, and minor repairs on power generation equipment under guidance; and demonstrated proficiency in the safe and effective use of standard test equipment, power tools, and hand tools; OR

B. Successful completion of two full years (36 semester hours) of graduate education or a master's degree that is directly related to the position being filled; OR

C. A combination of directly related graduate education and experience.

To qualify at the GS-10 grade level, you must meet the following:

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level or higher in the Federal service. Specialized experience is experience with routine operation and maintenance of electrical power generation systems and their major components (e.g., switchgears, diesel generators, transformers, motors, fans, and HVAC), including standard control and monitoring mechanisms; practical application of electrical and electronic principles related to backup power and distribution systems; performing standard operating procedures for the daily operation, start-up, and shut-down of back-up utility operations; conducting routine troubleshooting, diagnostics, and performing minor to moderate repairs with greater independence; and demonstrated technical proficiency in the safe and effective use of standard test equipment, power tools, and hand tools, including participating competently in the system inspection and testing program.

To qualify at the GS-11 grade level, you must meet the following:

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-10 level or higher in the Federal service. Specialized experience is experience with advanced operation and maintenance of complex electrical power generation systems and their major components (e.g., switchgears, diesel generators, transformers, motors, fans, and HVAC), including advanced control and monitoring mechanisms; independently conducting all aspects of backup utility operations, including complex manual start-up, shut-down, and emergency procedures; independently performing and documenting complex troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repairs on critical power generation equipment; applications of safe and effective use of specialized test equipment and tools, including independently managing the system inspection and testing program.

To qualify at the GS-12 grade level, you must meet the following:

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level or higher in the Federal service. Specialized experience is experience with expert operation and maintenance of the operational characteristics of complex electrical power generation systems and their major components (e.g., switchgears, diesel generators, transformers, motors, fans, and HVAC), including all advanced control, monitoring, and integration mechanisms; leading and directing teams in all aspects of backup utility operations, including planning and coordinating complex manual start-up, shut-down, and emergency operations; experience serving as a technical authority in performing and documenting highly complex troubleshooting, diagnostics, and critical repairs; and managing system inspection, testing, and operational readiness programs.

Demonstration of the KSAs listed in the "How you will be evaluated" section must be supported by your application. Applicants should make note of each KSA, as you will be asked to address them later in the application process.

Your possession of the KSAs listed in the "How you will be evaluated" section will place you in one of the following categories:

  • Best Qualified = 4+ out of 5 KSAs  
  • Well Qualified = 3 out of 5 KSAs (Well Qualified for CTAP/ICTAP) 
  • Qualified = 2 or less out of 5 KSAs.

If you are eligible under the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) or GSA’s Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), your resume must clearly demonstrate experience in at least 3 of the 5 required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) to receive priority consideration.

Education

Note: If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit:   https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/ 

Additional information

Candidates will not be hired based on their race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.

Applicants are encouraged to make their resume searchable in their USAJOBS.gov profile. This will allow Federal hiring specialists and hiring managers across agencies to find their resume as part of agency recruitment campaigns or staffing searches.

If you apply to this position and are selected, we will not ask about your criminal history before you receive a conditional job offer. If you believe you were asked about your criminal history improperly, contact the agency or visit GSA's webpage.

If you are selected at a grade lower than the full performance level, you may be promoted up to that grade level without having to re-apply or compete against other applicants.

Relocation-related expenses are not approved and will be your responsibility.

On a case-by-case basis, the following incentives may be approved:

·       Recruitment incentive if you are new to the federal government

·       Relocation incentive if you are a current federal employee

·       Credit toward vacation leave if you are new to the federal government

Additional vacancies may be filled through this announcement in this or other GSA organizations within the same commuting area as needed; through other means; or not at all.

If you are eligible under Merit Promotion, you may also apply under Vacancy Announcement #PM-2026-0010.  You must apply separately to each announcement to be considered for both.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

You will have access to many benefits including:

  • Health insurance (choose from a wide range of plans)
  • Life insurance coverage with several options
  • Sick leave and vacation time, including 11 paid holidays per year
  • Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401(k) plan)
  • Transit and child care subsidies
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Long-term care insurance
  • Training and development

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How you will be evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

A panel of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) will review the application of qualified candidates and assign a score for each of the five required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) based on the experience documented in the resume and narrative responses:

GS-09:

  1. Knowledge of basic electrical engineering principles to assist higher-graded technicians in operating equipment and performing minor repairs (component replacement, routine adjustments) under direct guidance.
  2. Ability to assist with manual start-up, troubleshooting, and shutdown of power generation and electrical distribution systems under guidance.
  3. Ability to monitor power generation, electrical, emergency distribution, and HVAC systems and identify routine operating conditions and discrepancies by following established procedures.
  4. Knowledge of established safety procedures, required PPE and hazards in routine, assigned work.
  5. Ability to read and follow technical instructions, drawings, schematics, and manufacturer manuals to complete assigned tasks.

GS-10:

  1. Knowledge of electrical engineering principles to operate, inspect, and perform minor-to-moderate component-level repairs on standard equipment with limited guidance.
  2. Ability to perform routine manual start-up, troubleshooting, and shutdown of standby/emergency power systems with limited guidance.
  3. Ability to independently monitor power generation, electrical, emergency distribution, and HVAC systems and identify, document, and respond to routine operating issues in accordance with established procedures.
  4. Knowledge of safety procedures and PPE in routine work to identify and report unsafe conditions before beginning a task.
  5. Ability to interpret and apply technical documentation to routine work and maintain accurate operating records and logs.

GS-11:

  1. Thorough knowledge of electrical engineering principles to independently operate, test, calibrate, and repair a full range of equipment and restore standard systems to service without assistance.
  2. Ability to independently perform start-up, troubleshooting, and shutdown of standby/emergency power systems, including non-routine and emergency operations.
  3. Ability to independently monitor and evaluate system performance and diagnose the root cause of complex faults, as well as recommend and implement corrective actions.
  4. Knowledge of safety requirements across varied work to execute lock-out/tag-out (LOTO), and correct unsafe conditions.
  5. Ability to interpret documentation and operating data to assist in developing and revising SOPs, report deviations, and initiate work orders.

GS-12:

  1. Comprehensive knowledge of electrical engineering principles to repair and restore complex equipment (multi-system, energized, or non-standard) and evaluate system performance against design specifications.
  2. Ability to direct and coordinate complex operational evolutions, including black-start and load-transfer, and review other technicians' operational sequences.
  3. Ability to analyze and evaluate system performance data to resolve complex faults, optimize reliability and efficiency, and develop operational improvements.
  4. Knowledge of safety procedures for the highest-consequence work (energized, high-voltage, emergency)to evaluate hazard controls for complex operations, and identify and document gaps in existing procedures.
  5. Ability to develop and implement SOPs, and document methods for situations where no standard procedure exists.

You may preview questions for this vacancy.

Required Documents

ALL required documents must be submitted before the closing date. Review the following list to determine what you need to submit.

Resume: Your resume should not exceed 2 pages and must demonstrate the specialized experience related to the position for which you are applying. Your resume must contain the following information:

  • Name, address, telephone number, email address;
  • Job Title (if Federal Service, provide series and grade; if not in GS plan, provide GS equivalent grade);
  • Relevant work experience—should include employer name, job title, start and end dates (month/year), the number of hours worked per week and descriptions that explain how you meet the required qualifications in the job announcement.
  • Education, certifications or licensures—If the job announcement requires any education, certifications or licensures, make sure to include the required information and any required documents like transcripts.

Your resume should contain enough information to make a valid determination that you fully meet experience requirements for each grade level you are applying to.  If you do not provide enough information for us to determine your qualifications, you may be rated ineligible.

If you are claiming veterans preference:
(a) Copy of your Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty, DD-214 that shows your type of discharge, character of service and the dates of your active duty service.
(b) If you are claiming 10-point preference or derived preference (spouse, widow/widower, or parent of a deceased or disabled veteran), you must submit documentation that establishes your entitlement in addition to the DD-214:

  • VA disability rating letter or other official documentation (refer to SF-15 for complete list).
  • SF-15, Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference

Note: If sufficient documentation is provided to establish 10-point preference, preference may be granted based on the supporting documentation even if the SF-15 is not submitted. If selected, a completed SF-15 will be required prior to appointment.

IF YOU ARE: 

Active duty military - Certification on a letterhead from your military branch that includes your rank, character of service (must be under honorable conditions) & military service dates including discharge/release date (must be no later than 120 days after the date the certification is submitted).

ICTAP/CTAP eligible - submit a, b, and c: (a) proof of eligibility including agency notice; (b) SF-50, and (c) most recent performance appraisal.

Current or Former Political Appointees: Submit SF-50.  

College transcripts: If you are using some or all of your college education to meet qualification requirements for this position, you must submit a copy of your college transcript(s). Transcripts MUST show: name of the institution, student's name, course work/degree(s) completed/conferred and dates. If selected, an official transcript will be required prior to appointment.

For education completed outside the United States, also submit a valid foreign credential evaluation that substantiates possession of the required education.

How to Apply

Submit a complete online application including any required documents prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time on the closing date of the announcement. You can modify or complete your application any time before the deadline. Simply return to USAJOBS, select the vacancy, and update your application.  For more detailed instructions on how to apply, click here: Apply for a GSA Job.

If you are having issues applying to this announcement, you should switch to a different browser, network or device. Note: Your firewall may block your transfer from USAJOBS to your GSA application. 

To begin, click the Apply Online button on the vacancy announcement.

  • Sign in or register on USAJobs and select a resume and documents to include in your application.
  • Resumes exceeding two pages will not be accepted by USAJOBS and will prevent your application from moving forward in the hiring process. Please see Required Documents for additional details.
  • Once you have clicked Apply for this position now, you will be taken to the GSA site to complete the application process.
  • Click the Apply To This Vacancy and complete all steps in the application process until the Confirmation indicates your application is complete. If you click Return to USAJobs or get timed out prior to receiving confirmation, your application will not be submitted and cannot be considered for this vacancy.
  • Note: Review the REQUIRED DOCUMENTS section of this announcement to determine which apply to you and must be submitted online. You may choose one or more of the following options to submit your document(s): Upload (from your computer) or USAJOBS (click the "USAJOBS" link to complete the transfer process).

Need Assistance? 

  • Questions or issues completing an application and/or submitting documentation - contact fedhirehelp@applygovernment.com or 1-866-656-6831 Monday-Friday 7AM - 7PM EST, except for Federal holidays
  • Specific questions on the position - contact the HR representative (Monday-Friday during normal business hours) listed on the announcement, prior to the application deadline

You must receive HR approval before deviating from these instructions.

Be sure to APPLY EARLY as most assessments must be completed fully and submitted before the announcement closing.

Agency contact information

Sarah Holder
Phone
000-000-0000
Fax
000-000-0000
Email
crcevacancyinquiries@gsa.gov
Address
GSA, Public Buildings Service
Servicing HR Office:
GSA, Office of Human Resources Management (OHRM)
1800 F Street, NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20405
United States

Next steps

After the closing date/deadline:

  1. ELIGIBILITY/QUALIFICATIONS: Applicant eligibility and qualifications are reviewed.
  2. REFERRAL TO MANAGEMENT: Eligible/Qualified applicants are referred to management for review and possible interview.
  3. SELECTION/TENTATIVE JOB OFFER: If a selection is made, a Tentative Offer is extended to the selectee and suitability and/or security background investigation is conducted.
  4. FINAL JOB OFFER: A final job offer is made (typically within 40 days after the closing date/deadline for applications).
  5. FINAL COMMUNICATION TO APPLICANTS: Once the position is filled, we will notify you of your status. You may also check your application status by logging into USAJOBS and clicking “Track this Application” on the Applicant Dashboard.

Thank you for your interest in working for the U.S. General Services Administration!

Public Buildings Service

Agency contact information

Sarah Holder
Phone
000-000-0000
Fax
000-000-0000
Email
crcevacancyinquiries@gsa.gov
Address
GSA, Public Buildings Service
Servicing HR Office:
GSA, Office of Human Resources Management (OHRM)
1800 F Street, NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20405
United States

Visit our careers page

Learn more about what it's like to work at Public Buildings Service, what the agency does, and about the types of careers this agency offers.

https://www.gsa.gov/about-us