Locksmith

Clarification from the agency

Current permanent employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs with first area of consideration to current permanent employees of the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center and its associated Outpatient Clinics, and Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) eligible applicants.

Duties included but not limited to:

Repairs, replaces, and changes combination locks on vaults. Repairs, overhauls, replaces, and installs all types of key locks in or on building structures at the VA Mountain Home, TN Health Care System to include key in knob, rim, mortise, switches, mail boxes, cams, and padlocks, electronic locks such as magnetic stripe and keypad electronic locks.

Sets up master systems determining by mathematical computation the number of different keys to pass each lock (day-key, master and/or grand master) and number of keys and cuts to be made.

Responsible for the installation, troubleshooting, repair and maintenance of electronic keying devices such as V-Series by Best Electronics an Hirsch Electronics with floating key pads for computer card readers, which requires knowledge of electrical circuitry, electrical principles, and formulas, and their practical application to the equipment and systems, repaired.

Work processes involve removing locks from door, disassembling the cylinders, changing combinations by putting in new springs, bottom, master, and top pins for the keys, reassembling, and reinstalling.

Opens all types of keyed locks (keys lost or unavailable) by making keys by impressing, picking, or other locksmith in techniques. Cuts keys from code machine and duplicates keys of all kinds. Installs, troubleshoots, services, and/or repairs locking devices which contain such features as dual locking capabilities and interact mechanically with timing or actuating mechanisms as used in Pharmacy for exam le which are set on five second locking Hirsch mechanisms, and security container locking bolts and palm devices w/ portable readers on medical supply room and doctors dorm access.

Determines if problem is mechanical or electrical. Repairs electrical malfunctions within the locking devise and refer electrical malfunctions in the line to the Maintenance Units. Installs, repairs, or adjusts panic hardware of all types. Sets and adjusts key cutting machines.

Procures and maintains supplies and materials for performance of work such as key blanks, locks, and electronic keying device repair parts.

Provides assistance to managers and Procurement as to type of locks or security hardware/devices required to meet special mandated Homeland Security and Law Enforcement, V Handbook #0730/1 which gives the physical requirements for all within VAMC, Mountain Home.

Prepares sketches , drawings, and part models in order to fabricate replacement parts to fine tolerances. Replaces or fabricates broken or worn out parts such as pins, catches, coils, springs, guides, levers, handles, spools, threads. Sands and files smooth all repairs and fabricated parts. Plans work layout, machines, and tools to be used.

Reassembles parts into working unit. Modifies vault locks and combination locks anytime employee leaves station or transfer to another service as requested by user to comply with security regulations. Rebuilds vaults that have been drilled or bored out by welding and soldering and makes independent determination as to serviceability.

Repairs, adjusts, overhauls, removes, and replaces door closers of various types including hydraulic and air pressure; replaces parts, installs new closers. Requisitions new parts for stock maintenance. Electronic devices used are scramble pad, standard key, and the card mechanisms required are magnetic stripe, Wiegand, Proximity, Bar C de, Barium Ferrite and Watermark in several locations throughout. Operates a motor vehicle, maintain log and performs operator maintenance.

Must be knowledgeable of the locksmith trade and must possess skill in the use of locksmith's tools common to the trade in maki g close tolerance measurements, fittings and adjustments to within .002 an inch. Knowledge of electrical circuitry, electrical principles and formulas, and their practical application to the equipment and systems repaired.

Has skills and knowledge to troubleshoot the systems in which the equipment is located in order to determine the cause of malfunction . Ability to select the proper replacement parts such as diodes, transistor , capacitors, and wiring from knowledge of electrical symbols, color codes, and descriptions found in blueprints, diagrams, etc. Skill required to use test equipment such as oscilloscopes, frequency meters, and capacity and impedance bridges to troubleshoot, test, and repair equipment.


Work Schedule: 6:45 am - 3:30 pm Monday through Friday
Position Description Title/PD#: Locksmith/PD073030
Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not Approved
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized

Conditions of employment

• You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
• All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
• Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
• Subject to background/security investigation
• Pre-employment physical required
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP)

As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:

• your performance and conduct;
• the needs and interests of the agency;
• whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
• whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your probationary period or trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 09/14/2026.

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:

• Ability to Do the Work of the Position without More Than Normal Supervision
• Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (Includes Blueprint Reading)
• Ability to Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
• Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation, and Repair, etc.
• Technical Practices (Theoretical, Precise, Artistic)
• Troubleshooting
• Use of Measuring Instruments

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: Must independently lift large bulky and hard to grasp objects weighing up to 50 pounds, or heavier objects with the assistance of other workers or lifting devices. Required to stoop, stretch, bend, and works while standing, sitting, or kneeling. Works inside or outside and is exposed to the possibility of abrasions, cuts, burns, electrical shock, and the prevailing weather conditions. Exposed to metal cuttings from using drills, key cutting machines, and metal saws. Is exposed to the possibility of burns while using welding torches and soldering irons. Wears protective equipment such as goggles, safety glasses, welder's helmet, apron, gloves and safety shoes.

How you will be evaluated

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

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE WILL NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.

Narrative responses are not required at this time. If you are referred for consideration, you may be asked to submit additional job related information, which may include, but not limited to; responses to the knowledge, skills and abilities; completion of a work sample, and/or contact for an interview. Your resume and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment.

The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.

For more information on the "Who may apply" eligibility requirements, please refer to the OHRM Status Candidates and Other Candidate Definitions document.

Placement Policy: The posting of this announcement does not obligate management to fill a vacancy or vacancies by promotion. The position may be filled by reassignment, change to lower grade, transfer, appointment, or reinstatement. Management may use any one or any combination of these methods to fill the position.

It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.

Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

• Resume
• SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action

The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please make sure you have included other documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), documentation to support Veterans Preference claims, or ICTAP/CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees). You will not be contacted for additional information.

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Separation Notice (RIF)
• SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
• Transcript

SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action (if applicable for Time in Grade and/or Eligibility):

• Most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former Federal employee
• An SF-50 showing your time-in-grade eligibility must be submitted with your application materials. If the most recent SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you possess one-year time-in-grade, as required by the announcement. In this instance, you must provide an additional SF-50 that clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade
• Award 50's do not provide sufficient information and will not be accepted for the purpose of verifying time-in-grade.
• Examples of appropriate SF-50's include:
  • Within grade increases at the highest grade held; or
  • Promotions with an effective date more than one year old; or
  • SF-50's at the highest grade held with an effective date more than one year old.

Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.

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