Launching Your Career as a Supply Technician with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines technical logistics skills with a mission-driven purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Durham, North Carolina, is hiring motivated professionals to join their team as a Supply Technician. This role is an essential component of the Veterans Health Administration, providing the backbone for clinical support within the healthcare system.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supply Technician, you will be the bridge between medical supplies and the clinical staff who need them. Your primary duties include:
- Inventory Control: Monitoring stock levels, performing physical counts, and utilizing bar-coding systems to maintain data integrity.
- Replenishment: Ensuring that wards, operating rooms, and clinics are fully stocked with sterile and non-sterile supplies.
- Quality Assurance: Monitoring expiration dates and rotating stock to reduce waste and ensure patient safety.
- Distribution: Delivering materials in a timely and professional manner, often involving the use of carts weighing over 100 pounds.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-5 level position, you must demonstrate specific experience or educational background:
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-4 level equivalent.
- Possession of a valid driver's license.
- Ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting 50+ pounds.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | 4 years above high school OR combination of education/experience |
| Physical Demand | Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting 50lbs |
| Certification | Valid state-issued driver's license required |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $42,538 to $55,300 per year. Beyond the salary, the VA provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including access to health insurance, retirement planning options, and generous paid leave (annual and sick time).
Application Tips
- Resume Length: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or shorter.
- Clarity: Clearly detail your duties, dates of employment, and hours worked per week. The hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Assessments: Be prepared to dedicate time to the online competency-based assessment once your application is submitted.
How will I know if I need to take an assessment?
If required, you will receive an automated email from the USA Hire system. Keep a close eye on your inbox and junk/spam folders after you apply.
Working for the VA is a rewarding way to serve your country. By ensuring medical staff have the tools they need, you directly influence the quality of care provided to our Veterans. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenging, stable federal career, submit your application today.
Why This Supply Technician Job Matters
Launch a mission-driven career supporting those who served our nation by joining the Logistics team as a Supply Technician in Durham, NC.
Supply Technician Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated individuals for the Supply Technician role within the Veterans Health Administration. This position is vital to the facility's mission, ensuring that clinical areas—including operating rooms and patient wards—are fully equipped with the sterile and non-sterile supplies required to provide life-saving care to our Veterans.
Requirements for Supply Technician
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a valid, state-issued driver's license.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-4 level in federal service.
- Ability to perform moderate to heavy physical labor, including standing, bending, and lifting items weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Proficiency in pushing loaded carts exceeding 100 pounds.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Must register for Selective Service if male and born after 12/31/1959.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Supply Technician
- Experience with automated inventory management and bar-coding systems.
- Knowledge of medical supply replenishment, rotation, and expiration date monitoring.
- Proven experience in high-paced clinical or hospital support environments.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with clinical and administrative staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Generous paid vacation and leave accrual
- ✓Predictable and flexible work scheduling
- ✓Career growth and development opportunities
- ✓Professional work environment serving the Veteran community
💡 How to Apply Supply Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supply Technician Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Draft a concise, results-oriented resume (maximum 2 pages).
- Submit your application, including all required documentation like transcripts and SF-50s.
- Complete the mandatory online assessment questionnaire.
- Monitor your email for potential requests to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
- Track your application status via your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to comply with federal merit hiring plans.
- Focus on recent, relevant experience and use clear, bulleted language.
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Check your spam or junk email folders frequently for notifications regarding assessment links.
- Review your application for accuracy before the closing date; omissions may disqualify you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a longer resume?
No, federal agencies currently limit resumes for this position to two pages maximum. Resumes exceeding this limit may be disqualified.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position. Candidates must be located in or willing to relocate to a commutable distance from Durham, North Carolina.
Do I need to send a copy of my driver's license now?
No, do not submit a copy with your initial application. You will be required to present your valid license if you are selected for an interview.
Is prior medical experience required?
While medical experience is beneficial, the primary requirement is a demonstrated history of inventory management and supply distribution tasks equivalent to the required grade level.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, committed to providing world-class care to our nation's Veterans. Working at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of honoring those who have served. Employees enjoy a supportive community, professional development opportunities, and the satisfaction of knowing their daily tasks contribute directly to patient wellness.
External Resources
- ↗ USAJobs Application
- ↗ Apply Online Portal
- ↗ Application Status
- ↗ OPM Qualification Standards
- ↗ Accreditation Verification
- ↗ Foreign Education Recognition
- ↗ Form I-9 Acceptable Documents
- ↗ Preview Questionnaire
- ↗ USA Hire Resources
- ↗ USAJobs Status Help
- ↗ Resume Guidance
- ↗ Benefits Information
- ↗ Career Transition Resources
