Launch Your Career as a Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist at VA Puget Sound

Are you a technician with a passion for healthcare and complex systems? The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is hiring a Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (BESS) to join one of the nation’s most advanced medical facilities. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical skills in a high-impact environment where your work directly supports the health and safety of our nation's Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As a BESS, you will serve as the backbone of our Healthcare Technology Management department. Depending on your grade level (GS-5 to GS-11), your responsibilities may include:

Lifecycle Management: Overseeing the acquisition, maintenance, and retirement of medical equipment and clinical systems.
Troubleshooting & Maintenance: Performing complex corrective and planned maintenance on a diverse array of medical devices.
Network Connectivity: Monitoring system backups, ensuring network integrity, and mitigating cybersecurity vulnerabilities in clinical systems.
Regulatory Compliance: Responding to hazard alerts and recall notifications while ensuring all work adheres to FDA, Joint Commission, and AAMI standards.
Staff Support: Providing clinical staff with training on the safe operation and user-level maintenance of life-critical equipment.

Comparison of Grade Levels

Feature	GS-5 / GS-7	GS-9	GS-11
Responsibility	Developmental/Entry	Intermediate	Advanced/Independent
Focus	Basic maintenance	Troubleshooting	Systems Management
Complexity	Assisted tasks	Technical analysis	Project management

Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet specific education and experience benchmarks within 30 days of the closing date. This includes an Associate degree or higher in a relevant technical field, or completion of specialized military biomedical training. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, possess a valid driver’s license, and pass a pre-employment physical and security background investigation. Proficient written and verbal English skills are mandatory.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $45,785 to $109,122 per year, depending on grade level and experience. Beyond the salary, VA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including:

Robust federal health insurance plans.
Excellent retirement savings via FERS and TSP.
Generous paid leave (vacation and sick time).
Consistent opportunities for professional certifications and career development.

Application Tips

Detail is Everything: Even though the two-page limit is waived, ensure your resume is comprehensive. Include specific hours worked per week and exact dates (month/year) for all positions.
Use the Provided Template: We require a specific Clinical Resume Document. Be sure to download and upload this correctly.
Tailor Your Content: Highlight any networking (TCP/IP, VLAN) or clinical certification (CBET) experience, as these are highly valued.

This position is more than just a job; it is a chance to use your technical expertise to support those who have given so much for our country. By joining the VA Puget Sound Health Care System, you become part of a culture of innovation and service. Apply today to secure your place in a stable, rewarding federal career.

Why This Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care) Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career ensuring the highest standard of care for our nation's heroes by joining the VA Puget Sound Health Care System as a Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist.

Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care) Job Overview

The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (BESS) to join our Healthcare Technology Management team. In this role, you will be instrumental in the mission of providing world-class medical support by ensuring the safety, reliability, and functionality of clinical equipment and systems. From entry-level developmental roles to senior-level technical management, this position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a large-scale, complex medical environment while advancing your technical expertise.

Requirements for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care)

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Possess an Associate degree or higher in biomedical technology, engineering, electronics, or information technology.
Alternative: Completion of a DOD biomedical technician training program or relevant certification (CBET, CRES, CLES, or CHTM).
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
Must hold a valid driver's license and maintain clearance to operate government-owned vehicles.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and a background security investigation.
Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Must register for Selective Service if born after 12/31/1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care)

Certification in CompTIA A+ or CompTIA Network+.
Experience with building automation systems, nurse call systems, or fire suppression technology.
Proficiency in radio systems and non-medical electronic infrastructure.
Proven experience in clinical networking environments (VLAN, TCP/IP, ACL).
Advanced knowledge of regulatory standards like AAMI, NFPA, and FDA guidelines.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Opportunities for professional development and technical training.
✓Stable, mission-driven work environment.
✓Access to a wide range of career growth paths within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

💡 How to Apply Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care) Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Review the specific requirements for your target grade level (GS-5 through GS-11).
Prepare your resume, ensuring all required details like hours worked and dates are included.
Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document provided by the VA.
Upload all necessary documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
Submit your application package by the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Be granular in your resume; list specific equipment you have serviced and the technical tools used.
Ensure your resume includes month and year start/end dates for all previous employment.
Double-check that you have uploaded the 'Clinical Resume Document' specifically requested for this series.
If you are a veteran, clearly identify your preference eligibility and attach your DD-214.
Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the full performance level of this position?

The full performance level for this Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist vacancy is GS-11.

Do I need a 2-page resume for this position?

No, the standard 2-page resume limit does not apply to this specific occupational series, provided you include all required details.

Is telework available?

No, this is an onsite position requiring physical maintenance and inspection of medical equipment at the facility.

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. The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is a premier Level 1a teaching facility, encompassing two major divisions and multiple community-based outpatient clinics. We operate as a comprehensive, interdisciplinary system covering everything from critical care and rehabilitation to specialized spinal cord and blind rehabilitation services. Our 'I CARE' core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide our mission every day.