Launch Your Career as a Medical Supply Technician at the VA in Spokane
Are you seeking a career that blends technical precision with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Spokane, Washington, is looking for detail-oriented individuals to join our team as Medical Supply Technicians (MST). This is more than just a job; it is a critical support role that ensures the safety of every patient who walks through our doors.
Understanding the Role
As an MST, you are the first line of defense against infection. Your responsibilities include:
- Decontamination: Collecting, disassembling, and scrubbing soiled surgical and medical equipment.
- Sterilization: Operating complex high- and low-temperature sterilizers, such as steam and hydrogen peroxide systems.
- Quality Assurance: Monitoring equipment effectiveness through mechanical, chemical, and biological testing.
- Inventory Management: Assembling specialized instrument trays for various surgical specialties.
Grade Level Comparison
| Level | Experience/Education Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Entry level; basic requirements apply. |
| GS-4 | Developmental; requires 6 months of relevant experience. |
| GS-5 | Intermediate; requires 1 year of experience or 4 years of education. |
| GS-6 | Full performance; advanced knowledge of surgical instruments and sterility principles. |
Salary and Benefits
Employees at the VA enjoy competitive compensation with clear pathways for salary increases. Starting pay for this range is $40,731, reaching up to $74,129 depending on your experience and qualifications.
Beyond the paycheck, you will receive:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access to federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous Leave: Accrue 13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave annually.
- Retirement Security: A traditional federal pension and a 401k-style thrift savings plan with government matching.
How to Apply
To be considered, candidates must submit a full application package via the official USAJobs link. Ensure you use the required VA clinical resume document to highlight your experience. Detailed descriptions of your previous duties, including start and end dates and hours worked per week, are essential for our recruiters to properly assess your qualifications.
If you are ready to make a difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans while building a stable, rewarding career in healthcare, we encourage you to apply. Join the Spokane VA today and become an integral part of a team dedicated to excellence.
Why This Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing) Job Matters
Join the Department of Veterans Affairs in Spokane and play a vital role in patient safety by becoming an expert in medical equipment sterilization and sterile processing.
Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking dedicated individuals to join our team in Spokane, Washington, as Medical Supply Technicians (Sterile Processing). In this role, you will be the backbone of clinical operations, ensuring that surgical and medical equipment is meticulously decontaminated, assembled, and sterilized to support patient care. This is an open continuous announcement, perfect for those starting or advancing a career in healthcare support services. Whether you are an entry-level candidate or an experienced technician, your contribution directly impacts the health and safety of our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing)
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Must be proficient in both spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass a drug screening prior to appointment.
- Must undergo a background/security investigation.
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period upon appointment.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing)
- Experience in sterile processing, operating room, or surgical technician settings.
- Formal education or training in healthcare-related fields such as nursing assistant or medical technician programs.
- Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and infection control procedures.
- Familiarity with various sterilization methods like steam, Sterrad, and chemical decontamination agents.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401k (TSP) with agency matching up to 5%.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including up to 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year.
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and regular salary increases.
💡 How to Apply Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing) Job
- Visit the online application portal via the official link provided.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA career site.
- Upload the required documents, including your resume and any applicable transcripts or certifications.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be highly specific in your resume; do not rely on assumptions. Detail your duties, dates of employment, and hours worked per week for every position.
- Ensure your resume explicitly addresses the requirements listed in the job announcement to verify your eligibility.
- Use the provided VA resume template to avoid formatting issues.
- Double-check your application for missing documents, as incomplete submissions will result in a loss of consideration.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work schedule for this position?
The shifts generally run Monday through Friday, specifically from 0600-1430 or 1000-1830.
Is a specific certification required for this role?
No, there is no specific certification required for entry; however, relevant training and experience in sterile processing are highly beneficial.
Can I apply if I do not have direct experience?
Yes, this position includes entry-level (GS-3) opportunities where training is provided under the guidance of experienced staff.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, this position does not offer relocation assistance.
Are there drug testing requirements?
Yes, as this is a health-related position, applicants must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is dedicated to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. Working at the Spokane VA Medical Center means joining a mission-driven organization that values compassion, integrity, and clinical excellence. Located in beautiful eastern Washington, Spokane offers a unique blend of urban culture and outdoor recreation, making it an ideal place to build your professional life.