Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) - Serve Veterans in Atlanta, Georgia

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services to the men and women who have served our nation. At the Atlanta VA Health Care System, a crucial opportunity exists for a skilled and compassionate Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) to join the esteemed Audiology Service. This role is pivotal in ensuring Veterans receive exceptional care for their hearing health, supporting diagnostic procedures, treatment plans, and vital patient education. If you are passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans and possess the required qualifications, this position offers a rewarding career path within a leading healthcare institution.

About the Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

The VA's mission is deeply rooted in President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The VA is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, employing thousands of dedicated professionals across the country. The Atlanta VA Health Care System, a Complexity Level 1A tertiary facility, stands as a testament to this commitment, offering a full spectrum of medical services, advanced technology, and robust research and education programs. The VA operates under core values of Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE), fostering a culture of compassionate, patient-centered care.

Job Responsibilities: Your Role as a Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist)

As a Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) at the Atlanta VA, your primary focus will be on direct patient care and support within the Audiology Service. Your responsibilities are multifaceted and essential to the smooth operation of the clinic and the well-being of Veterans:

• Patient Care and Support: Provide essential support for diagnostic and treatment procedures related to hearing health. This includes assisting audiologists, preparing equipment for face-to-face and telehealth visits, and ensuring a seamless patient experience.
• Hearing Aid Services: Perform visual and auditory checks of hearing aids and hearing assistive technology (HAT) before and after repair, troubleshooting performance issues. You will also be responsible for fabricating earmold impressions based on the audiologist's plan of care and ordering necessary earmolds.
• Patient Education: Educate patients, their families, and staff on the proper use, care, and maintenance of hearing aids and HAT. This includes assisting patients with hearing aid insertion, removal, and cleaning.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all patient interactions, procedures, and device information within the electronic medical record (EMR) and other required systems.
• Otoscopy and Referrals: Conduct non-diagnostic otoscopy, identifying potential abnormalities, and making appropriate referrals for conditions like cerumen management.
• Procedure Support: Assist in preparing patients, equipment, and the environment for various audiology procedures.
• Triage and Communication: Handle patient telephone calls and audiology requests, effectively triaging needs and providing appropriate information or routing them to the correct personnel.
• Infection Control: Adhere strictly to clinic policies and standard operating procedures for infection control, cleaning, sterilization, and management of reusable medical equipment (RME).
• Troubleshooting and Repair: Perform basic troubleshooting and repair of hearing aids and HAT, ensuring devices are functioning optimally.
• Administrative Duties: Support administrative functions as assigned by management, contributing to the overall efficiency of the service.

Work Schedule: Typically Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, though subject to change based on agency needs.

Requirements for Success

To be considered for this vital role, candidates must meet specific criteria, ensuring they possess the foundational knowledge and credentials necessary to provide high-quality care:

Basic Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen. Non-citizens may be considered only when qualified citizens cannot be recruited per VA policy.
• English Proficiency: Must demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English, as required by federal law (38 U.S.C. § 7403(f)).
• Experience or Education: Applicants must meet one of the following:
  • Completion of the Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program for Hearing Aid Specialists.
  • Successful completion of two academic years of study above the high school level, including coursework in areas such as hearing science, anatomy and physiology, hearing instrument science, gerontology, psychology, or general healthcare.
  • Note: There is no combination of education and experience that can substitute for these basic requirements.
• Licensure/Registration: Must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license or registration to practice as a Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) in a U.S. state, territory, commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
• Board Certification: Must hold active board certification from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS).

Additional Requirements:

• Background Investigation: Must successfully undergo a background/security investigation.
• Physical Examination: Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
• Drug Screening: Applicants tentatively selected for positions designated for drug testing are subject to urinalysis prior to appointment. Refusal to test will result in denial of employment.
• Seasonal Influenza Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
• Trial Period: Upon selection, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period to assess fitness and suitability for continued employment.

Grade Determination (GS-06)

For the Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) position at the GS-06 grade level, in addition to meeting the basic requirements, candidates must demonstrate specific Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Experience: One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-05).
• KSAs:
  • Knowledge of normal and abnormal ear anatomy.
  • Familiarity with hearing aids, hearing assistive technology, and manufacturer specifications.
  • Proficiency in documenting patient procedures and device information.
  • Skill in educating patients on hearing aid use, insertion, removal, and hygiene.
  • Ability to provide patient education on hearing loss and communication strategies.
  • Capacity to solve problems and make decisions regarding hearing aids and assistive technology under supervision.
  • Aptitude for preparing patients and equipment for audiology procedures.
  • Ability to triage patient calls and audiology requests effectively.

Salary Overview

The Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) position is classified at the GS-06 grade level. The annual salary range for this position is $48,019 to $62,425.

Benefits

As a federal employee with the Department of Veterans Affairs, you are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. While specific details are managed by federal guidelines, typical benefits include:

• Health Insurance: Access to Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, offering a choice of plans.
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Available through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP).
• Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), including a government contribution to a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
• Paid Time Off: Earn annual (vacation) leave and sick leave, with potential credit for prior federal or military service that can accelerate your leave accrual rate.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Other Benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), paid federal holidays, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

Application Process

Applying for this position is a straightforward online process:

1. Create or Access Your USAJOBS Account: If you don't have one, create an account on USAJOBS.gov. If you do, log in.
2. Start the Application: Click the 'Apply Online' button on the job announcement.
3. Complete the Questionnaire: Answer all questions in the occupational questionnaire accurately and thoroughly.
4. Submit Required Documents: Upload all necessary documents, including your resume (consider using the provided VA clinical resume template and uploading your full CV/resume in the 'Other' field), license, certification, and any other supporting documents as listed in the 'Required Documents' section.
5. Review and Submit: Ensure your application package is complete and submitted by the closing date of September 21, 2026, by 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Important Note: It is your responsibility to ensure your application and all supporting documents are submitted by the deadline. Incomplete or late applications may not be considered.

Application Tips for Success

To maximize your chances of being selected, consider these strategic tips:

• Read Carefully: Pay close attention to all instructions in the job announcement, especially in the 'Required Documents' and 'How to Apply' sections.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights experience and skills directly relevant to the duties and qualifications listed for this Health Technician role. Quantify achievements whenever possible.
• Use the VA Resume Template: While optional, using the provided VA clinical resume template can help ensure you include all the necessary information in a structured format. Remember to upload your comprehensive resume as well.
• Be Specific in the Questionnaire: Your answers in the occupational questionnaire are critical. Provide detailed examples that demonstrate your KSAs and how you meet the requirements.
• Check for Completeness: Before final submission, review your entire application package to confirm all required documents are uploaded and all sections are completed accurately.
• Seek Assistance if Needed: If you encounter technical difficulties or require an alternative method to apply or submit documents, contact the Agency Contact listed in the announcement promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the primary focus of this Health Technician role? A: The primary focus is on patient care, supporting diagnostic and treatment procedures, patient charting, and patient education within the Audiology Service, without requiring a full professional audiology education or licensure.

Q2: What are the salary expectations for this position? A: The salary for this Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) position ranges from $48,019 to $62,425 per year.

Q3: Is this position eligible for remote work or telework? A: No, this position is not telework or virtual. It requires the incumbent to work on-site at the Atlanta VA Health Care System.

Q4: What is the closing date for applications? A: The application deadline is September 21, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Q5: Are there any physical requirements for this job? A: Yes, the position involves some physical exertion such as prolonged standing, bending, reaching, and lifting moderately heavy items. Possession of a valid driver's license may also be required for travel between VA clinics.

Q6: What is the importance of the trial period? A: The trial period (1-2 years) is a standard part of federal employment. During this time, your performance and conduct will be evaluated to ensure your continued employment advances the public interest and the agency's goals.

This Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) position at the Atlanta VA Health Care System presents a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the health and well-being of Veterans. By providing essential hearing healthcare services, you will play an integral role in the VA's mission to honor America's heroes. If you meet the qualifications and are driven by a desire to serve, we encourage you to apply and become a valued member of the Atlanta VA team.