Career Opportunity: Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) at the VA
Are you a dedicated sonography professional looking to make a difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) to join the VA Central Iowa Health Care System. This role offers not just a competitive salary and comprehensive federal benefits, but the opportunity to serve those who have served our country in a high-impact, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Medical Instrument Technician, you will provide critical diagnostic services using high-frequency ultrasonic waves. Your daily tasks include:
- Performing comprehensive ultrasound exams on various body systems including the abdomen, pelvis, thyroid, breast, and scrotum.
- Conducting specialized vascular studies, such as carotid duplex, ABI, and arterial/venous duplex exams.
- Assisting radiologists during biopsy procedures, fluid aspirations, and surgical interventions.
- Managing technical settings on ultrasound equipment for image optimization.
- Educating patients on procedures and ensuring a safe, sterile, and compassionate environment.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship or qualified non-citizen status.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical.
- Possession of a valid driver's license.
- Completion of background and security investigations.
Salary and Comparison
The position is classified as a GS-9 grade level, offering a robust salary structure.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $74,709 - $97,127 |
| Work Schedule | Mon-Fri (plus on-call) |
| Travel Requirement | 25% |
| Employment Type | Permanent, Excepted Service |
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a total rewards package that supports both professional and personal success:
- Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of combined vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
- Retirement: Access to a federal pension and a 401K-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching.
- Insurance: Excellent, portable federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, be as specific as possible regarding your clinical experience in your resume. Use the VA-provided standard resume document to ensure all mandatory information is included. Don't forget to explicitly address the required knowledge, skills, and abilities in your supplemental materials.
Join a team where your technical expertise directly impacts the quality of life for our Veterans. With a supportive culture, excellent benefits, and a clear career path, the VA is the ideal place to elevate your ultrasound career. Apply today via the official USAJOBS portal to get started.
Why This Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) Job Matters
Advance your career in medical imaging while honoring those who served. Join the VA Central Iowa Health Care System as a Diagnostic Ultrasound Specialist.
Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) to join the VA Central Iowa Health Care System. This role is integral to our Diagnostic Imaging Service Line, where you will provide high-quality sonography services to Veterans in a compassionate, whole-health environment. You will work across a multi-campus system, performing a wide array of ultrasound exams and collaborating with radiologists to ensure accurate clinical outcomes.
Requirements for Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound)
- Must be a U.S. citizen (exceptions apply for non-citizens when qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Must possess proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must hold a valid driver's license.
- Must register with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Must undergo a background and security investigation.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound)
- Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
- Current Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification.
- Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.
- Specific registry experience in Abdomen, OB/GYN, and/or Vascular studies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year.
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays.
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with agency matching up to 5%.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.
💡 How to Apply Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume, including a standard Clinical Resume Document as specified.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and certifications.
- Submit your application package by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; be specific and clear in your resume regarding your experience.
- Address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) mentioned in the job description directly in your application documents.
- Use the provided standard Clinical Resume template for your primary resume upload.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
The position is a full-time, Monday-Friday schedule from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with required on-call rotations.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Des Moines, Iowa, and it is not eligible for telework.
What level of travel is required?
This position requires approximately 25% travel, as you may perform duties at other VA Central Iowa health care sites.
Is certification mandatory?
*A: While registration by CCI or ARDMS is not strictly required, it is highly desirable and strongly recommended for applicants at the GS-9 level.*
Can I apply if I live out of state?
*A: You must be able to work onsite in Des Moines, Iowa, as this is not a remote or virtual position.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is a premier provider of healthcare, serving Veterans across multiple locations. We are committed to the "Whole Health" system of care, empowering both patients and staff to take charge of their health and well-being. With nearly 1,700 employees, we operate a main campus in Des Moines and several Community Based Outreach Clinics, ensuring that our Veterans receive the best care possible.