Advance Your Career as a Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist at VA Puget Sound
Are you a skilled technician passionate about healthcare technology? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a motivated Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (BESS) to join the VA Puget Sound Health Care System in Seattle, Washington. This role is critical to ensuring our nation’s Veterans receive the highest quality of care through functional, safe, and modern medical equipment.
Job Responsibilities
As a BESS, you will manage the lifecycle of various medical and clinical systems. Your daily duties will include:
- Maintenance: Performing planned and corrective maintenance on patient care equipment.
- Troubleshooting: Diagnosing complex malfunctions in medical devices and clinical systems.
- Documentation: Accurately logging all repairs and inspections in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
- Compliance: Responding to hazard alerts and recalls while maintaining safety standards set by the NFPA, FDA, and The Joint Commission.
- Network Security: Monitoring clinical system backups and mitigating cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
- Training: Educating clinical staff on the safe operation and maintenance of medical equipment.
Comparison: Growth Potential
| Grade Level | Focus Area | Responsibility Level |
|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Developmental | Entry-level, performing basic maintenance under supervision. |
| GS-7 | Intermediate | Increased technical knowledge, utilizing standard test equipment. |
| GS-9 | Advanced | Networking knowledge and ability to interpret technical data. |
| GS-11 | Full Performance | Project management, advanced troubleshooting, and mentorship. |
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet specific education or experience criteria, including an associate degree in a related technical field or recognized industry certifications. Candidates must also be U.S. citizens, pass a physical, and be able to maintain a valid driver's license for travel to clinic sites. Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $45,785 to $109,122 per year. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement planning (FERS), and generous paid leave.
If you are ready to apply your technical skills in a mission-critical role that directly supports Veteran health, we invite you to apply. This position is a rare opportunity to contribute to a world-class healthcare system while building a stable federal career.
Why This Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care) Job Matters
Launch a high-impact career at the nation's most complex VA healthcare system—where your technical expertise directly supports those who served.
Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care) Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist to join our elite Healthcare Technology Management team. In this pivotal role, you will be the backbone of patient care operations, ensuring that essential medical devices and clinical systems function at peak performance. From troubleshooting advanced life-support equipment to managing complex network integrations, you will have a direct impact on the safety and recovery of our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care)
- U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
- Must possess a current, valid driver's license.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Subject to a background and security investigation.
- Must complete an online onboarding process upon selection.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care)
- Direct experience in healthcare technology management.
- Technical certifications such as CompTIA A+ or CompTIA N+.
- Proficiency in networking principles (TCP/IP, VLANs, ACLs).
- Experience with Building Automation Systems, Nurse Call, or Fire Suppression systems.
- Documented experience in medical equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Knowledge of industry standards including NFPA, FDA, and The Joint Commission.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including sick leave and federal holidays.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Flexible spending accounts and life insurance programs.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous technical training.
- ✓Potential for credit toward annual leave accrual based on prior service.
💡 How to Apply Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (Patient Care) Job
- Create a profile on the USAJobs portal.
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA career site.
- Prepare your full resume/CV with detailed employment history, including dates, hours worked, and specific duties.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, certifications, and SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Submit your application and complete the mandatory online questionnaire before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be explicit and detailed in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your specific technical background.
- Use the exact template for the Clinical Resume to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
- Clearly label your federal experience with series and grade levels to ensure accurate credit.
- Apply well before the deadline to account for any technical issues on the portal.
- Check your USAJobs dashboard frequently for status updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What education is required to qualify?
You need an associate degree or higher in biomedical technology, engineering, electronics, or IT, OR completion of a qualifying Department of Defense training program, OR recognized professional certifications like CBET or CRES.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position requiring physical presence at the VA Puget Sound facilities and travel to clinics.
What is the pay range for this position?
The salary range is $45,785 to $109,122 per year, depending on the grade level (GS-5 to GS-11) for which you qualify.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is recognized as a Level 1a major interdisciplinary teaching hospital. As one of the most complex VA healthcare networks in the United States, it operates across two divisions and multiple community-based outpatient clinics. We are dedicated to our "I CARE" values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Joining our team means becoming part of a community that puts the needs of those who served our country first.