Design and Construction Engineering Support (Systems Engineer (FC IV))
Job Summary We are seeking a Design and Construction Engineering Support specialist (Systems Engineer – FC IV) to provide expert technical and programmatic support under the VA's Veterans Health Administration Healthcare Engineering Facility Program (VHA HEFP). In this role, you will support the planning, design, and construction of large-scale VA Medical Center infrastructure projects—ensuring compliance with VHA standards, federal regulations, and agency-specific directives across complex, multi-system healthcare environments. This position operates within a dynamic federal contracting team delivering mission-critical facility improvements that directly impact the care and safety of our nation's Veterans. The ideal candidate is a highly experienced engineering professional who thrives in complex, multi-stakeholder federal healthcare environments, brings a systems-level mindset to infrastructure challenges, and can independently navigate the technical, regulatory, and coordination demands of VA construction programs. Primary Responsibilities Provide expert design and construction engineering support for large-scale VA Medical Center infrastructure projects, applying systems engineering principles to ensure integration of multiple utility systems and subsystems across all project phases. Apply effective project management and engineering techniques to planning, design, and construction activities, ensuring deliverables meet VHA standards, VA Design Requirements, and applicable agency Directives. Coordinate and lead risk assessments in collaboration with development, design, and end-user teams, identifying potential construction and systems integration risks and developing mitigation strategies throughout the project lifecycle. Support compliance with environmental and cultural resource review processes, including State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO), and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) procedures, as required for federal construction projects. Conduct construction forensics and technical investigations to diagnose facility deficiencies, assess existing infrastructure conditions, and inform corrective action planning for VA healthcare facilities. Serve as a subject matter expert on Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems design within VHA healthcare environments, advising project teams on systems performance, code compliance, and alignment with medical center facility management best practices.
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in healthcare facility and infrastructure design and construction with a qualifying BS degree, or 8 years of specialized experience in lieu of degree, with demonstrated expertise in large-scale commercial, federal, or MILCON infrastructure implementation projects. Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited university or college required; advanced degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field is a plus. Prior experience supporting VA, DoD, or other federal agency healthcare facility construction programs strongly preferred; familiarity with VHA design standards, VA Technical Information Library (TIL) requirements, and federal construction acquisition environments is highly desirable. Ability to obtain and maintain a VA Personal Identity Verification (PIV) credential and satisfy all VA background investigation and facility access requirements prior to or upon contract award. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship now or in the future; this position does not offer visa sponsorship. Demonstrated expertise in construction management and healthcare facility management, including knowledge of MEP systems design, utility systems integration, and medical center operational requirements for projects of comparable size and scope to a VA Medical Center. About Aptive Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. Founded: 2012Employees: 300+ nationwide EEO Statement Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class. Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply. Apply To This Job