About this role
Job SummaryThe Health Technician (Podiatry) receives guidelines and privileges from the Surgical Service in general, and specifically from the Podiatry Section Chief, for daily work, both in supervised and unsupervised activities. The duties are varied and complex, consisting of performing functions normally completed by LPNs, surgical scrub nurses/techs, laboratory technicians, etc.
QualificationsTo qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 09/10/2026. For this Health Technician, GS-06 position: To qualify at the GS-06 grade, you must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level or higher. Specialized Experience to include, but not limited to: Conducts hands-on experience in clinical settings, assisting with patient assessments, wound care, and minor surgical procedures. Independently manages patients and supplies, while ensuring a clean and organized clinical environment. Experience maintaining accurate medical records and clerical skills in a clinical environment. Works with computer systems to include sending and retrieving email in Outlook; Utilizes medical terminology 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. Physical Requirements: Work is generally sedentary. It does require some physical exertion, such as standing for long periods of time, recurring lifting of moderately heavy items such as supplies and equipment for special programs. Considerable walking is involved. Must be able to work effectively under pressure of numerous interruptions on a variety of subjects. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.
Major DutiesReceives requests or instructions for precedes. Interprets requests or instructions for medical orhealth care personnel. Secures patient's confidence and cooperation during procedures. Provides patient care that isappropriate to the cognitive, emotional, and chronological maturation needs of the adult and/orgeriatric patient. Determines technical factors, sets controls and operates equipment and instruments. Selectsand sets technical factors for invasive procedures. Operates and maintains medical instruments and equipment for diagnostic and treatment procedures,supports medical and health care professionals in tests and procedures to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Performs the full range of complex procedures and examinations for which instructions have notbeen standardized. Explains procedures. positions patients for desired results and cushions and shields patients asappropriate. Varies procedure or position to adjust to patients' medical condition. The incumbent is responsible for the planning, direction, and coordination of the administrativeactivities of the podiatry section to relieve the professional staff from such matters. Maintains and assembles patient records. Receives and directs patients, answers routine inquiries, and makes referrals. Performs direct patient support work including personal patient care. Identifies and reports datarelative to more complex. Teaches patients and family members the necessity of continuing proper health care. Performs administrative tasks such as maintaining control records for specimens and tests anddocumenting measurements taken. Performs patient care procedures such as collection of specimens, applying dressings. and adjusting simple supportive equipment. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm. Subject to change by supervisor to meet facility. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Position Description/PD#: Health Technician (Podiatry)/PD03623A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not Approved Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not ApprovedRequirementsYou must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job To be considered for this position, you must complete all required steps in the process. In addition to the application and questionnaire, this position requires an online assessment. The online assessment measures critical general competencies required to perform the 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 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 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 period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.