Launch Your Healthcare Career: Medical Technician-Phlebotomist at the VA
Are you looking for a meaningful career where your clinical skills directly impact the lives of those who served our country? The Central Arkansas Veteran Healthcare System is currently seeking a motivated and skilled Medical Technician-Phlebotomist to join our healthcare team in El Dorado, Arkansas. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide essential diagnostic support in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Medical Technician, your primary focus will be the collection and processing of clinical specimens. Your day-to-day duties include:
- Phlebotomy Excellence: Performing venipuncture and capillary collections while ensuring patient comfort.
- Specimen Management: Correctly labeling, processing, and handling specimens to maintain integrity.
- Clinical Support: Utilizing laboratory information systems like VistA and CPRS to manage patient orders and data.
- Patient Safety: Adhering to strict PPE standards and identifying adverse patient reactions.
- Compliance: Ensuring all procedures follow the latest safety regulations and privacy laws.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Relevant associate degree or equivalent course work |
| Experience | Specialized phlebotomy and lab support experience |
| Compliance | Ability to pass drug screening and background checks |
| Documentation | Two-page resume limit |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a salary range of $37,193 to $47,334 per year. In addition to financial compensation, federal employees benefit from a robust package including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous leave policies, including annual and sick leave.
- Federal retirement system participation.
- Opportunities for continued education and specialized training.
Application Tips
Navigating the federal application process can seem daunting. Here are a few tips to ensure your application stands out:
- Format Your Resume: Stick strictly to the two-page limit. Use the USAJOBS resume builder for the best results.
- Be Specific: Quantify your experience. List specific duties, dates, and the number of hours worked per week.
- Address the Competencies: Explicitly link your experience to the job duties listed in the announcement.
- Proofread: Double-check for errors, as omissions can affect your rating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I have prior military service? A: The VA highly values Veteran applicants. Ensure you include your DD214 and any necessary veteran preference documentation with your application.
Q: Is there a travel requirement? A: This role is based primarily at the facility in El Dorado, Arkansas.
Joining the VA team is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in the service of our Veterans. If you possess the clinical skills and the compassion required for this role, we encourage you to submit your application package before the August 17, 2026, deadline.
Why This Medical Technician-Phlebotomist Job Matters
Join the VA team in El Dorado, Arkansas, and play a vital role in the health and wellness of our nation's heroes as a Medical Technician-Phlebotomist.
Medical Technician-Phlebotomist Job Overview
The Central Arkansas Veteran Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Medical Technician (Phlebotomist) to join its team. In this role, you will provide essential clinical laboratory support, performing critical blood collection procedures, managing specimen integrity, and ensuring high-quality patient care in both inpatient and outpatient environments. This position is perfect for a detail-oriented professional committed to supporting Veterans through compassionate, expert clinical service.
Requirements for Medical Technician-Phlebotomist
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
- Must be able to pass a drug screening test.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is required.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must be able to perform phlebotomy, including venipuncture and capillary blood collection.
- Proficiency with clinical laboratory computer systems (e.g., Vista, CPRS).
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Technician-Phlebotomist
- Previous experience performing blood collections across diverse age groups.
- Knowledge of aseptic techniques and universal precautions.
- Experience in laboratory specialties such as hematology, chemistry, or microbiology.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain specimen integrity and resolve discrepancies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary.
- ✓Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave.
- ✓Retirement benefits and pension options.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the VA system.
- ✓Stability of federal employment.
💡 How to Apply Medical Technician-Phlebotomist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Technician-Phlebotomist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online application and mandatory assessment questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts (if using education to qualify) and SF-50s if applicable.
- Monitor your email for a unique link to the USA Hire Assessments if prompted.
- Submit your complete application package by the closing date of 08/17/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month/year start and end dates and average hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Save and upload your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
- Review the job announcement in full and align your resume language with the listed competencies.
- Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you include all required details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position located in El Dorado, Arkansas.
What is the education requirement for this role?
Applicants can qualify through a combination of specialized experience and relevant education, such as an associate degree or specific coursework in chemistry and biological sciences.
Are there strict page limits for the resume?
Yes, federal agencies now require resumes to be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit may result in ineligibility.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to providing world-class care to our nation's Veterans. The Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System (CAVHS) operates across two major campuses, serving a diverse population with a commitment to whole-health excellence. As a member of our laboratory team, you are an integral part of the diagnostic process, ensuring that Veterans receive accurate, timely results to guide their treatment plans.