Become a Medical Technician with the VA Black Hills Health Care System

Are you a skilled laboratory professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The VA Black Hills Health Care System is currently hiring a Medical Technician to join our mission-driven team in Hot Springs, South Dakota. This role is a unique opportunity to provide exceptional clinical support to our nation’s Veterans while advancing your career within a top-tier healthcare system.

Job Responsibilities

As a Medical Technician, your role is central to patient care and diagnostic accuracy. You will:

Perform venipuncture and collect specimens using varied techniques (vacutainer, capillary, etc.).
Maintain lab instrumentation and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions.
Ensure accurate specimen labeling and efficient distribution across lab departments.
Provide clear instructions to patients regarding self-collected specimens.
Document test results accurately in electronic health record systems.

Core Competencies Comparison

Skill Category	Expected Proficiency	Impact
Laboratory Practices	Independent Execution	High
Quality Assurance	Rigorous Compliance	Critical
Team Collaboration	Effective Communication	Moderate
Instrumentation	Technical Troubleshooting	High

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must:

Hold current certification from the ASCP, AMT, or AAB.
Possess strong communication skills in spoken and written English.
Successfully complete a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Be a U.S. citizen.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $59,031 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides:

EDRP Eligibility: Student loan reimbursement up to $200,000.
Insurance: Federal health, dental, and life insurance plans.
Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

Application Tips

To stand out, ensure your resume highlights specific, quantifiable lab experience. Since the VA does not make assumptions about your skills, be explicit about your technical abilities and past laboratory duties. Don't forget to attach your professional certifications and any relevant transcripts early in the process.

Working as a Medical Technician for the VA in South Dakota is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and service. With robust benefits and a mission that truly matters, this is a career move you can be proud of. Apply today to help us serve those who have served.

Why This Medical Technician Job Matters

Join the VA Black Hills Health Care System and elevate your career as a Medical Technician while serving those who have bravely served our nation.

Medical Technician Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Medical Technician to join our team in Hot Springs, South Dakota. This role offers the chance to provide high-quality diagnostic support within a facility committed to Whole Health care. You will play a vital role in our laboratory team, ensuring accuracy in specimen collection and testing to improve health outcomes for our nation's Veterans.

Requirements for Medical Technician

U.S. Citizenship
Current certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician (ASCP, AMT, or AAB)
Proficiency in spoken and written English
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
Commitment to annual seasonal influenza vaccination
Must undergo a background and security investigation

Preferred Qualifications for Medical Technician

One year of experience equivalent to the GS-05 grade level for GS-06 consideration
Strong technical judgment and laboratory instrumentation troubleshooting skills
Experience in diverse specimen collection methods including pediatric and geriatric care
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-based laboratory environment

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
✓Comprehensive Federal Health and Life Insurance
✓Generous Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
✓Retirement savings plans including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan
✓Professional development and training opportunities
✓Supportive and inclusive work environment

💡 How to Apply Medical Technician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Medical Technician Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Download the required clinical resume template.
Complete the occupational questionnaire.
Upload all required documentation, including certifications and SF-50 if applicable.
Submit your application package before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and detailed when describing your professional experience in your resume.
Address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) in a separate document for a stronger application.
Ensure all certifications are current and clearly documented.
Double-check that all required forms, including transcripts and SF-50s, are included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this position?

Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. You must apply within four months of your appointment to be considered.

Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Generally, you must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Non-citizens may only be appointed if it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens per VA policy.

What is the work schedule?

The position follows a standard Monday through Friday schedule from 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, relocation/recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*

What is the trial period?

*A: New hires are required to serve a one or two-year trial period to ensure fitness for the position.*

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 Black Hills Health Care System provides a comprehensive range of health services, including acute medicine, surgery, and primary care across multiple campuses. Operating in the heart of the Black Hills, our team enjoys a balance of professional excellence and a high quality of life.