Advance Your Career as a Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography) at the Iowa City VA
Are you a dedicated sleep technician looking to make a meaningful impact? The Iowa City VA Health Care System is seeking a skilled Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography) to join its team. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic services to the men and women who have served our nation. As a 5-Star CMS-rated facility, the Iowa City VA provides a premier environment for professional growth and clinical excellence.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will work independently to provide comprehensive sleep evaluation services. Key duties include:
- Preparing and calibrating polysomnography equipment to ensure signal accuracy.
- Applying electrodes and sensors following standardized protocols.
- Monitoring continuous all-night physiological data, including EEG, EKG, and respiratory parameters.
- Scoring sleep stages and identifying clinical events.
- Fitting and managing PAP equipment during titration studies.
- Communicating testing procedures and results clearly to patients and medical staff.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- English language proficiency (written and spoken).
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening and background investigation.
- Commitment to the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Grade Qualification Table
| Grade Level | Key Qualification Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-4 | Entry level; requires 1 year of related experience or relevant education. |
| GS-5 | Requires experience in equipment operation or specific medical coursework. |
| GS-6 | Professional knowledge of polysomnography, data recording, and PAP therapy. |
| GS-7 | Ability to independently titrate PAP levels and score complex sleep recordings. |
| GS-8 | Mastery of rare sleep disorders and advanced data reporting skills. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $36,409 to $83,405 per year, depending on the applicant's qualifications, experience, and the selected grade level.
Benefits
Working for the VA means more than just a paycheck. Employees enjoy:
- Generous paid time off (up to 50 days annually including holidays).
- Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Competitive retirement programs, including the Federal Employees Retirement System and the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Opportunities for parental leave and childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Describe your clinical experience thoroughly. The hiring board will not make assumptions regarding your capabilities.
- Use the Template: Use the specified Clinical Resume Document to ensure your application is processed efficiently.
- Address the KSAs: Writing a separate document addressing the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) can significantly improve your rating.
If you are ready to combine your technical expertise with a mission-driven career, we encourage you to apply to the Iowa City VA. Your work as a Polysomnographic Technician will directly improve the health and quality of life for our nation's Veterans.
Why This Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography) Job Matters
Join the Iowa City VA Health Care System as a Medical Instrument Technician and play a vital role in advancing Veteran care through specialized sleep diagnostics.
Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography) Job Overview
The Iowa City VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography) to provide expert diagnostic and therapeutic services. This role centers on conducting comprehensive sleep studies, analyzing physiological data, and supporting patients through complex treatment protocols like CPAP and Bi-Level therapy. You will work in a supportive, academic-affiliated environment recognized for excellence in patient care.
Requirements for Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Completion of a pre-employment background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography)
- Board registration as a Polysomnographic Technologist (BRPT)
- Active Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (BCLS/ACLS) certifications
- Previous experience in clinical polysomnography or sleep diagnostic labs
- Demonstrated ability to calibrate and troubleshoot complex medical instrumentation
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓13-26 days of annual paid leave
- ✓13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional pension and 401(k)-style retirement plans with employer match
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible full-time employees
💡 How to Apply Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Instrument Technician (Polysomnography) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the standard Clinical Resume Document as instructed.
- Prepare a separate document addressing the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs).
- Submit your complete application package including resume, cover letter, and transcripts online.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your experience; do not assume the recruiter knows your background.
- Use the provided standard resume template to ensure compliance with hiring protocols.
- Address each KSA specifically in your separate document to increase your chances of a higher grade qualification.
- Verify that all transcripts and required documents are uploaded correctly before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the grade range for this position?
This position is advertised from GS-4 to GS-8, with the full performance level reaching GS-8.
Is a license required to apply?
While specific licensure is not strictly required for this occupation, it is highly desirable at the GS-6 level and above.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an onsite position at the Iowa City VA Health Care System and is not eligible for telework.
What is the work schedule for this position?
*A: The position follows a compressed schedule, specifically 1900-0700.*
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, relocation/recruitment incentives and permanent change of station (PCS) are not authorized for this role.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
Since 1952, the Iowa City VA has been a leader in healthcare innovation, education, and compassion. Serving over 50,000 Veterans across Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, the system is deeply connected to academic institutions like the University of Iowa. We pride ourselves on a "Whole Health" approach, empowering Veterans to take charge of their well-being within a supportive, collaborative environment.