Advance Your Career as a Hearing Instrument Specialist with the VA
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a meaningful difference? The James H. Quillen VA Medical Center in Johnson City, Tennessee, is seeking a compassionate and skilled Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) to join our Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Service (ASPS).
Job Responsibilities
As a Health Technician (HIS), you will be the backbone of our audiology clinic. Your responsibilities will include:
- Patient Care: Troubleshooting hearing aids, performing repairs, and guiding patients on device maintenance.
- Clinical Support: Assisting with earmold impressions, calibrating audiology equipment, and preparing patients for telehealth or face-to-face evaluations.
- Patient Education: Teaching Veterans how to use hearing aids, manage Bluetooth connectivity, and implement communication strategies to improve their daily lives.
- Administrative Documentation: Ensuring accurate medical record entries and managing inventory levels for clinical supplies.
Requirements
To be considered for this vital role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A current, unrestricted license to practice as an HIS in a state or territory.
- Active board certification (NBC-HIS).
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass background and drug testing.
Salary Overview
| Position Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-5 to GS-6 | $40,332 - $58,445 |
Note: Pay may be adjusted based on unique qualifications or agency needs.
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with a robust total rewards package, including:
- Pension & 401(k): Secure your future with a federal retirement plan and agency matching.
- Paid Time Off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Healthcare: Comprehensive federal insurance options.
- Work-Life Balance: Child care subsidies for eligible families and parental leave.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Download the specific Clinical Resume template from the VA careers site to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly describe your hands-on experience with hearing assistive technology. Don’t leave any relevant work history out.
- Stay Organized: Check your email frequently for status updates regarding your application.
Joining the VA in Johnson City is an opportunity to build a career in a community that offers both a hometown feel and a high quality of life. Apply today and help us honor those who served.
Why This Heath Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology team at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center.
Heath Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) to provide essential support at the James H. Quillen VAMC in Johnson City, Tennessee. In this role, you will perform direct patient care, assist with diagnostic procedures, and play a vital role in our Whole Health model, ensuring Veterans receive the high-quality, compassionate care they deserve.
Requirements for Heath Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, and unrestricted license/registration to practice as a Hearing Instrument Specialist in any state, territory, or DC
- Active board certification from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation and drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Heath Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist)
- Experience with hearing aid troubleshooting and maintenance
- Proficiency in electronic medical record documentation
- Ability to provide patient education on hearing technology and communication strategies
- Experience in an audiology or clinical healthcare setting
- Strong interpersonal skills for patient triaging and support
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- âś“Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching
- âś“Generous Paid Time Off (up to 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 Federal holidays)
- âś“Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance
- âś“Paid parental leave after 12 months
- âś“Child care subsidy for eligible employees
đź’ˇ How to Apply Heath Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Heath Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume using the standard VA Clinical Resume template.
- Gather supporting documents such as your professional license, NBC-HIS certification, and transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with hearing aids and clinical patient support.
- Verify that your professional license is current and listed clearly.
- Double-check that all required documents, including your transcript, are attached before clicking submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not currently Board Certified?
Non-board certified applicants may be appointed at the GS-5 entry level under a temporary appointment, provided they meet other eligibility requirements. You must actively pursue and obtain NBC-HIS board certification within two years of appointment.
What is the work environment like in Johnson City?
Johnson City offers a high quality of life with an affordable cost of living, no state income tax, and access to numerous outdoor activities, festivals, and cultural attractions in the Appalachian region.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. Working at the VA means more than just a job; it is an opportunity to be part of a "Whole Health" system of care. Our employees are committed to relational, patient-centered care, ensuring that every interaction with a Veteran is meaningful.