Launching Your Career as a Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) at the VA
Are you a certified Hearing Instrument Specialist looking to transition into a mission-driven career? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is currently seeking a motivated individual to join the Audiology Service as a Health Technician. This position offers a unique chance to combine your technical expertise with a commitment to serving those who have protected our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Health Technician, your primary responsibility is to provide both clinical and administrative support to the Audiology team. You will be the first point of contact for many patients, ensuring they receive the necessary tools to manage their hearing health. Key duties include:
- Troubleshooting and Repair: Performing auditory and visual checks on hearing aids and assistive devices.
- Patient Education: Teaching Veterans and their caregivers how to maintain, clean, and use hearing instruments effectively.
- Clinical Support: Fabricating earmold impressions and managing supply inventories.
- Patient Triage: Handling telephone inquiries and prioritizing patient needs according to audiologist-approved plans.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several specific federal requirements. These include:
- Licensure: A current, unrestricted license to practice as a Hearing Instrument Specialist.
- Certification: Active board certification via NBC-HIS.
- Education/Experience: Successful completion of a Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program OR at least two years of relevant college-level education.
- Communication: Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Grade Level Comparison
| Feature | GS-05 | GS-06 |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Entry Level / Basic Req | 1 Year of equivalent experience |
| Primary Focus | Learning clinical workflows | Independent triage and patient support |
| Complexity | Standard tasks | Advanced troubleshooting & patient training |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $42,538 to $61,643 per year. As a federal employee, you will also be eligible for regular pay increases based on performance and experience, and there is the potential to negotiate a higher starting step based on your unique qualifications.
Benefits
The VA provides an industry-leading benefits package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term security. Highlights include:
- Health and Wellness: Access to federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- Retirement: A robust pension plan and a 401K-style plan with government matching contributions.
- Leave: Significant annual leave and sick leave accrual, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Family Support: Access to paid parental leave and childcare subsidies for qualifying employees.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal role requires attention to detail. Ensure your resume highlights your specific clinical experience, particularly with hearing technology and patient communication. Always use the requested format for your resume to avoid processing delays. Finally, triple-check that your license and board certification documentation is attached to your submission.
The role of a Health Technician at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center is more than just a job; it is a commitment to quality healthcare for our Veterans. With a stable salary, excellent benefits, and a supportive team environment, this is an ideal career move for a qualified Hearing Instrument Specialist. Apply today and take the next step in your professional journey.
Why This Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in audiology support where your specialized skills directly improve the lives of our nation's Veterans.
Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job Overview
The Fayetteville VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) to join our Audiology Service. In this vital role, you will provide essential clinical and administrative support, helping to streamline patient care, manage equipment, and ensure our Veterans receive high-quality service for their hearing healthcare needs.
Requirements for Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English
- Must possess a current, unrestricted state license or registration as a Hearing Instrument Specialist
- Must hold active board certification from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS)
- Must complete the Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program OR have two years of relevant post-high school education
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Must participate in the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist)
- Experience in patient triage and administrative documentation within a clinical setting
- Proficiency with hearing aid manufacturer software and assistive technology
- Strong interpersonal skills for patient education and communication
- Ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary audiology team
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401K with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Generous paid time off (13-26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 paid holidays)
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Childcare subsidy eligibility for qualifying families
💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician (Hearing Instrument Specialist) Job
- Review the full announcement and ensure you meet all license and certification requirements.
- Download and prepare the standard Clinical Resume Document as instructed.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to start the application process.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire and upload all required documents, including your license and board certification.
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be precise when describing your clinical experience to ensure you receive proper credit.
- Ensure your license and NBC-HIS certification are clearly documented in your application materials.
- Check the status of your application regularly via the USAJOBS portal.
- Contact the provided agency support if you encounter any technical issues with the application system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center.
Can I substitute experience for the board certification requirement?
No, active board certification from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS) is a mandatory basic requirement for this position.
What is the performance level for this role?
The full performance level for this vacancy is GS-06, with hiring possible at the GS-05 or GS-06 grade depending on qualifications.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The role is typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation assistance is not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I use foreign education to meet the requirements?
Yes, but it must be accompanied by a certificate of foreign equivalency from a recognized organization.
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 dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining the Fayetteville VA Medical Center, you become a critical part of a team that prioritizes whole-person health and compassionate, expert care.