Launch Your Healthcare Career at the Salem VA Medical Center

Are you a dedicated phlebotomist looking to make a genuine difference in the lives of those who served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring for a Medical Technician (Phlebotomy) position at the Salem VA Medical Center in Salem, Virginia. This role offers the unique opportunity to combine your clinical expertise with a mission-driven career that honors our nation's Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Medical Technician specializing in Phlebotomy, your primary duty is to support the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service. You will be on the front lines of patient diagnostics, ensuring accuracy and comfort for every Veteran.

Patient Care: Perform routine venipuncture and follow strict patient identification procedures.
Specimen Management: Collect, process, label, and aliquot samples for lab testing.
Lab Support: Perform standard diagnostic tests, such as urine dipsticks, fingerstick glucose tests, and pregnancy tests.
Facility Maintenance: Maintain supply levels and perform sterilization duties using an autoclave.
Communication: Serve as a point of contact for clinical staff regarding lab orders and results.

Requirements

To qualify for this role, candidates must meet several key federal requirements:

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Language	Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Experience	Documented experience performing phlebotomy on human patients.
Suitability	Ability to pass a drug screen and background investigation.
Education	Relevant experience or college coursework (transcripts required).

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $40,736 to $52,957 per year, depending on qualifications and experience. This position is at the GS-5 level.

Benefits

Working for the federal government comes with several advantages, including:

Reliable and predictable scheduling.
Competitive leave packages (vacation and sick time).
Professional development and training.
The emotional reward of serving Veterans and their families.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position is a precise process. Please follow these guidelines:

Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to assist.
Be Specific: Quantify your experience by including hours worked per week for every position listed.
Attachments: Ensure all relevant documents—including transcripts and veteran preference forms—are uploaded correctly as PDFs.

If you have the skills, compassion, and drive to serve our nation's heroes, we encourage you to apply. This position is more than just a job; it is a chance to contribute to a noble mission. Ensure your application is complete and submitted before the closing date to be considered for this exciting opportunity.

Why This Medical Technician- Phlebotomy Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by joining the VA as a Medical Technician specializing in Phlebotomy.

Medical Technician- Phlebotomy Job Overview

The Salem VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Medical Technician to join our Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service. In this role, you will play a critical part in the diagnostic process by performing essential phlebotomy, specimen collection, and lab support duties. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to provide high-quality care to our nation's Veterans while working in a collaborative, mission-driven clinical environment.

Requirements for Medical Technician- Phlebotomy

U.S. Citizenship
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Experience performing phlebotomy/blood draws on human patients
Completion of a one-year probationary period
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
Submission of online application and assessment by the closing date
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Current seasonal influenza vaccination or authorized exemption

Preferred Qualifications for Medical Technician- Phlebotomy

One full year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-4 level in medical laboratory support
Bachelor's degree or 24 semester hours in relevant medical or scientific fields
Combination of post-high school education and specialized lab experience
Strong manual dexterity and high stress tolerance for critical care environments

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Predictable and flexible scheduling
✓Generous paid time off
✓Federal career advancement opportunities
✓Meaningful work serving Veterans
✓Potential for recruitment incentives for highly qualified candidates

💡 How to Apply Medical Technician- Phlebotomy Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Medical Technician- Phlebotomy Job

Log in or create a profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, focusing on relevant skills and specific job duties.
Submit your online application along with all required documentation, such as transcripts or veteran preference papers.
Complete the required online assessment (USA Hire) if prompted via email.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week for all previous positions.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the strict two-page limit.
Check your spam folder regularly for assessment notifications.
Convert documents to PDF for optimal formatting.
Highlight specific phlebotomy experience clearly as it is a mandatory selective placement factor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an on-site position located in Salem, Virginia. Candidates must live within or be willing to relocate to a commutable distance.

What is the maximum resume length allowed?

Per federal guidelines, resumes must be limited to two pages. Applications exceeding this length will not be considered.

Is phlebotomy experience required?

Yes, this position includes a Selective Placement Factor requiring demonstrated experience performing phlebotomy or blood draws on human patients.

Do I need a degree?

While a degree is not strictly required, you must meet the specialized experience threshold or a combination of education and experience.

Is there a probationary period?

Yes, all new hires are subject to a one-year probationary period.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VHA is committed to excellence, compassion, and innovation. Joining the team at the Salem VA means becoming part of a community that values service above all else. Whether you are a military veteran yourself or simply passionate about clinical care, the VA offers a supportive environment with robust benefits.