Launch Your Career as a Health Technician with the VA in Sioux Falls
Are you a dedicated Hearing Instrument Specialist looking to transition your career into a mission-driven environment? The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is currently hiring for a Health Technician to support our Audiology team. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to directly impact the quality of life for the brave men and women who served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Health Technician (HIS), your duties will be diverse and highly clinical in nature. You will:
- Direct Patient Care: Perform hearing aid troubleshooting, repairs, and visual/auditory performance checks.
- Clinical Support: Fabricate earmold impressions and assist in the setup of diagnostic and telehealth equipment.
- Patient Education: Provide clear, supportive guidance to Veterans regarding hearing aid use, communication strategies, and connectivity (Bluetooth/Apps).
- Administration: Manage inventory, maintain supply levels, and ensure all medical record documentation is accurate and timely.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship required.
- Education: Completion of a DoL Apprenticeship for Hearing Aid Specialists OR two years of relevant post-secondary education.
- Licensure: A current, unrestricted license to practice as a HIS.
- Certification: Active NBC-HIS board certification.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and adhere to vaccination policies.
Grade Comparison
| Grade Level | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-5 | Meets basic education/license requirements |
| GS-6 | One year of experience equivalent to GS-5 |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $59,031 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides an incomparable benefits package, including:
- Generous Paid Time Off (Annual and Sick Leave).
- 11 Federal Holidays.
- Robust retirement options including 401(k) and a traditional pension.
- Comprehensive health and insurance plans.
- Paid parental leave.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is comprehensive and specifically highlights your clinical experience. Always attach your current license and board certification documentation. For the best outcome, download and use the suggested VA clinical resume template provided in the announcement.
Join us at the Sioux Falls VA and contribute to a team that truly cares. If you are a skilled Hearing Instrument Specialist ready to serve those who served, apply today via the official USAJOBS portal.
Why This Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by supporting essential audiology services at the Sioux Falls VA.
Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job Overview
The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) to join our Audiology team. In this role, you will provide critical support to audiologists, assisting with diagnostic procedures, patient education, and device maintenance to ensure our Veterans receive high-quality, compassionate auditory care. This position is located in the beautiful community of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, within the VA Midwest Healthcare System (VISN 23).
Requirements for Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be hired only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Completion of a Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program for Hearing Aid Specialists OR two years of specialized education beyond high school.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license/registration to practice as a Hearing Instrument Specialist in any state, territory, or D.C.
- Active board certification from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS).
- Background and security investigation clearance.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
- Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist)
- Experience troubleshooting and repairing complex hearing assistive technology.
- Proficiency in documenting patient encounters within an electronic medical record system.
- Strong interpersonal skills for patient education and communication strategies.
- Familiarity with clinical supply chain and equipment inventory management.
- Prior experience working in a VA or federal healthcare setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year.
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays.
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs.
- ✓Federal 401(k) retirement savings plan with agency matching.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan.
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible families.
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service.
💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and prepare your documents, including your transcript, license, and certification.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Upload your resume, certification, license, and transcripts to the application portal.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions about your clinical experience.
- Ensure your document uploads clearly distinguish between your standard resume and additional supporting files.
- If you are using education to qualify, ensure your transcript is from an accredited institution.
- Draft your responses to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) on a separate document to highlight your specific expertise.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I am not yet board-certified?
Non-board certified applicants may be considered for a temporary graduate-level appointment under specific conditions and supervision, provided they meet all other eligibility requirements.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
How often will candidates be referred to the hiring manager?
As this is an open continuous announcement, qualified applicants are referred every 1-2 weeks.
What is the trial period for this role?
New hires will serve a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, this position does not offer relocation or PCS assistance.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to Veterans, their families, and survivors. As part of the VA Midwest Healthcare System, the Sioux Falls VA is a hub of excellence, offering comprehensive patient care ranging from primary to tertiary services. We pride ourselves on our 'Whole Health' philosophy, which empowers both patients and staff to take charge of their well-being.