Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist: Advancing Patient Care at the VA
The role of a Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (BESS) is at the intersection of healthcare, engineering, and technology. At the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), these professionals are the unsung heroes who ensure that the advanced medical devices used to treat our nation's heroes are functioning at peak performance. If you have a passion for medical technology and a desire to serve, the Lt. Col. Luke Weathers VA Medical Center in Memphis is currently looking for dedicated individuals to fill this pivotal position.
Job Responsibilities
As a BESS, your days will be dynamic and multifaceted. Your primary goal is lifecycle management. This includes:
- Assessment: Working with doctors and nurses to determine equipment needs.
- Implementation: Installing, integrating, and securing medical devices on the hospital network.
- Sustainment: Performing routine calibrations, emergency repairs, and software updates.
- Education: Training clinical staff on the safe and effective operation of new technology.
Requirements
This position requires a unique blend of technical aptitude and regulatory awareness. Candidates must possess:
- An Associate’s degree in Biomedical Electronics or Engineering, or equivalent DOD training.
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
- Ability to meet physical requirements, including lifting and navigating tight spaces.
- Understanding of critical standards such as NFPA, FDA, and The Joint Commission.
Salary and Comparison Table
The GS-11 position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with federal pay scales.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $74,678 - $97,087 |
| Location | Memphis, TN |
| Schedule | Full-time, Multiple Shifts |
| Clearance | Non-sensitive/Low Risk |
Benefits
Working for the VA provides access to the Federal Employee benefit package, which includes comprehensive health, life, and dental insurance, as well as a robust retirement plan (FERS), paid leave, and job stability in the federal sector.
Application Tips
To stand out, be sure to tailor your resume to highlight your experience with the specific test equipment listed in the job requirements. Use the provided template from the VA career site to ensure your application meets the automated screening criteria.
If you are an experienced technician looking to apply your skills in an environment where your work has a direct, tangible impact on patient outcomes, apply to the VA today.
Why This Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist Job Matters
Power the technology behind patient care: Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist and directly impact the lives of those who served our nation.
Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist (BESS) to join the Lt. Col. Luke Weathers VA Medical Center in Memphis, Tennessee. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the full lifecycle management of sophisticated medical technology, including imaging systems, life-support devices, and advanced monitoring equipment. You will serve as a vital link between clinical staff and technical infrastructure, ensuring that high-stakes medical devices remain functional, compliant with safety standards, and ready to provide the best possible care to our Veterans.
Requirements for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Ability to perform physical tasks such as bending, stooping, lifting, and negotiating confined spaces.
- Must possess specific educational credentials (Associate’s in Biomedical Electronics/Technology, Engineering, or relevant DOD training).
- Must hold or have held specific industry certifications (CBET, CRES, CLES, or CHTM) if relying on certification for qualification.
Preferred Qualifications for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist
- Experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level in a clinical or biomedical engineering environment.
- Demonstrated mastery of NFPA, FDA, TJC, and AAMI safety standards.
- Advanced proficiency in networking principles including TCP/IP, VLANs, and Access Control Lists.
- Proven capability to interpret complex technical schematics and wiring diagrams.
- Strong project management skills related to medical equipment installation and system integration.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive health insurance options
- âś“Federal retirement benefits including FERS
- âś“Generous paid annual leave and sick leave accrual
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and training
- âś“Eligibility for student loan forgiveness programs where applicable
- âś“Flexible spending accounts
đź’ˇ How to Apply Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Biomedical Equipment Support Specialist Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJobs portal.
- Download the standard VA Clinical Resume document from the provided link.
- Prepare your full resume, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference documentation (DD-214, SF-15).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documents to the application portal before the closing date.
- Submit your application package electronically.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume regarding your technical experience; the hiring team cannot make assumptions.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly indicate your degree, conferring date, and relevant coursework.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are clearly legible.
- Submit your application well before the September 30th deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Clearly highlight your proficiency with specific diagnostic equipment and regulatory standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a BESS at the VA?
A BESS manages the lifecycle of medical equipment, from procurement and installation to maintenance, troubleshooting, and eventual decommissioning, ensuring all devices meet clinical safety standards.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
U.S. citizenship is a primary requirement. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
Is travel required?
*A: The position is based at the Memphis campus; travel is minimal to none.*
Is there a trial period?
*A: Yes, a 1- or 2-year trial period is standard for new federal appointments.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. The Memphis VA facility is a flagship institution, serving over 206,000 Veterans across a three-state region. As a Level 1 Tertiary Care facility, it offers a high-acuity environment where technology is not just an asset—it is a necessity for patient survival and recovery.