Advance Your Career: Surgical Technician at the Salt Lake City VA

Are you a skilled Surgical Technician passionate about patient care? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering an exceptional opportunity to join the surgical team at the Salt Lake City Health Care System. This position is ideal for professionals seeking to support our nation’s Veterans while working in a state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Job Responsibilities

As a Surgical Technician, you are the backbone of the surgical suite. Your duties will include:

Assisting surgeons during complex procedures.
Maintaining and preparing the sterile field.
Managing surgical instruments and implantable devices.
Coordinating with anesthesia and medical staff to ensure patient safety.
Handling specimens and documenting electronic medical records.

Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet specific federal requirements, including:

U.S. Citizenship: Required for all federal appointments.
Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Documentation: Submission of a concise, two-page maximum resume.
Background: Successful completion of security and background investigations.

Grade Level Comparison Table

Grade Level	Key Requirement	Focus Area
GS-5	1 Year Specialized Experience	Fundamental techniques and sterile field setup
GS-6	1 Year Specialized Experience	Developmental proficiency and RME handling
GS-7	1 Year Specialized Experience	Advanced surgical support and instrument management

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $60,985 to $98,208 annually, commensurate with your grade level and experience. As a federal employee, you will also benefit from the stability and growth opportunities provided within the GS (General Schedule) system.

Benefits

Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
Federal retirement contributions and pension plans.
Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
A work-life balance that allows you to enjoy the outdoor and cultural amenities of Salt Lake City.

Application Tips

Format Matters: Use a clean, sans-serif font and ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less.
Highlight Experience: Use specific, results-oriented language to detail your experience with surgical services, such as orthopedics or cardiothoracic.
Check Status: Use the federal hiring portal to track your application throughout the process.

Serving as a Surgical Technician at the Salt Lake City VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and a rewarding path for your professional development. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply by the September 30, 2026, deadline.

Why This Surgical Technician Job Matters

Join a team where your expertise directly supports those who served: Become a Surgical Technician at the Salt Lake City VA and elevate your career in a state-of-the-art medical environment.

Surgical Technician Job Overview

The Salt Lake City VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Surgical Technician to provide critical support within our surgical team. Working alongside surgeons and medical staff, you will play a vital role in planning and implementing complex surgical procedures, ensuring patient safety through expert aseptic technique and meticulous attention to detail. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a high-volume, collaborative environment that prioritizes excellence in veteran care.

Requirements for Surgical Technician

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must complete an online occupational assessment.
Submit a resume limited to two pages.
Pass a pre-employment urinalysis for drug screening.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must register with the Selective Service.
Subject to a background and security investigation.
Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.

Preferred Qualifications for Surgical Technician

Proven operating room experience in diverse specialties such as general surgery, urology, ENT, orthopedics, plastics, thoracic, and cardiothoracic procedures.
Proficiency in sterile field maintenance, instrument sterilization, and handling reusable medical equipment.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Demonstrated ability to anticipate surgeon needs during complex medical procedures.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with career advancement potential to GS-7.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Opportunities for professional education and research in a teaching hospital environment.
✓Potential credit for non-federal experience toward annual leave accrual.
✓Work-life balance in a city known for its vibrant tech, cultural, and outdoor scenes.

💡 How to Apply Surgical Technician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Surgical Technician Job

Create or log into your account on the official federal hiring portal.
Review your resume to ensure it is no longer than two pages.
Complete the occupational questionnaire linked in the announcement.
Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 if applicable.
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly follows the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
Use clear, results-oriented language that mirrors the keywords found in the job announcement.
Save and upload your documents in PDF format to preserve formatting.
Explicitly document your surgical experience, noting specific procedures and the number of hours worked per week.
Verify your eligibility via the online portal and double-check that all required supporting documents (e.g., transcripts) are attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum length allowed for my resume?

Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must be no longer than two pages. Submissions exceeding this limit will result in automatic ineligibility.

Are there opportunities for promotion?

Yes, this position has a promotion potential up to GS-7. Promotion is based on meeting all regulatory and performance requirements without the need for further competition.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Salt Lake City VA Healthcare System is a premier teaching hospital providing specialized, comprehensive care. Nestled in a region known for its stunning natural beauty and thriving culture, our facility offers clinicians and staff a unique work environment that values research, education, and, most importantly, the mission of honoring President Lincoln's promise to those who have served.