Medical Supply Techician (Sterile Processing)

About the role

This position is in the Sterile Processing Services (SPS) program under Patient Care Services at the Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center. SPS consists of multiple areas, the incumbent of this position will be supporting the decontamination, preparation and distribution of the hospital's critical and semi-critical reusable (RMD) medical devices.

What you will do

• GS-3 Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing) Entry level.
• Provides manual cleaning, decontamination, inspection, preparation and assembly, disinfection, sterilization and transport to end user of critical and semi-critical Reusable Medical Devices (RMD) in support of Medical Center operations.
• Reusable Medical Devices: The incumbent will have knowledge of the processes for RMD as required by this position and will be required to maintain current knowledge of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) which document the processes and procedures for cleaning, disinfection, sterilization and preparation of RMD appropriate to this position.
• The incumbent will be able to demonstrate their ability to utilize an acceptable proficiency in the use of RMD appropriate to this position.
• GS-4 This is a developmental position in SPS as a Medical Supply Technician (MST).
• In this position, the incumbent will provide manual cleaning, decontamination, inspection, preparation and assembly, disinfection, sterilization and transport to end user of critical and semi-critical Reusable Medical Devices (RMD) in support of Medical Center operations.
• Reusable Medical Devices: The incumbent will have knowledge of the processes for RMD as required by this position.
• The incumbent will be required to maintain current knowledge of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) which document the processes and procedures for cleaning, disinfection, sterilization and preparation of RMD appropriate to this position.
• The incumbent will be able to demonstrate their ability to utilize an acceptable proficiency in the use of RMD appropriate to this position.
• GS-5 Developmental level.
• Removes soil, blood, tissue fragments, body fluids and other contaminants by wiping, soaking, rinsing and scrubbing.
• Inspects packages for indications of proper sterilization, assembles basic sets and trays used throughout the medical center including those used in the operating room.
• Prepares, loads, and operates sterilizers such as steam, Sterrad, Steris, and a high-level disinfecting process; Performs segments of work pertaining to the decontamination, sterilization and inspection of RMD.
• Operates equipment involved in the cleaning, disinfection and sterilization processes.
• Receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision.
• Reusable Medical Devices: All personnel who are involved in the reprocessing of RMD are responsible for knowing what reusable instruments, equipment, medical devices or supplies are used (inventory) in their clinical area.
• Must be familiar with which items are reprocessed locally (on unit) and/or which are sent to Sterile Processing for reprocessing and/or sterilization.
• If items are transported for reprocessing, personnel must be aware of the individual decontamination steps to be taken prior to transport of item and the appropriate method of transport.
• Responsible for following the local SOP drafted in accordance with the manufacturer's written recommendations.
• Sterile Processing and Infection Control should be consulted when clarification of written instructions are needed.
• No one should be reprocessing any reusable medical device based upon vendor's verbal instructions alone.
• Must have documented training in the setup, reprocessing and maintenance of specific equipment.
• Validation of competency will be done according to national policy guidelines.
• Can suspend the reuse of any RMD if they suspect that the device was not properly cleaned, disinfected or sterilized according to the SOP and manufacturer's guidelines.
• Single-use (disposable) medical devices will not be reused or re-sterilized.
• All personnel must have an understanding of the importance of RMD and the significant impact on our Veteran population through the risk of infectious disease.
• GS-6 Full performance level.
• Receives contaminated critical and semi-critical RMD or noncritical equipment in the decontamination area.
• Disassembles the RMD and determines the correct cleaning method, such as, but not limited to, ultrasonic cleaners, mechanical washers/disinfectors, cart washers and chemical cleaning/decontamination agents, as determined by manufacturer instructions for use (MIFU).
• Inspects, assembles and determines the correct method and packaging for sterilization, such as, but not limited to steam, Sterrad, Steris, and high level disinfecting scope re processors.
• Performs and documents daily operational checks and records for all processes and equipment.
• Reusable Medical Devices: Same as GS-5 Preferred Experience: Minimum of (1) year experience in Sterile Processing.
• Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6am -4:30pm Compressed/Flexible: Not authorized Telework: Not authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

• 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.
• Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
• 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 (***).
• 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.
• Must pass pre-employment physical evaluation/examination.
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
• Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
• As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 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 trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Education

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: ***

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: ***

How you will be evaluated

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC.

WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.

Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.

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.

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.

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.

Documents you must provide

• Resume The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position.
• Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc. Cover Letter DD-214/ Statement of Service Disability Letter (Schedule A) Disability Letter (VA) License Other (1) Performance Appraisal Professional Certification Resume Separation Notice (RIF) SF-15 SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action Transcript

What to expect next

Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met.

After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.

You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center. NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).

It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service.

HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities.

HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities.

HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.

Additional information

Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.

This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions.

Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.

VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.

Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.