Advance Your Career: Engineering Technician at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center

Are you an engineering professional looking to leverage your technical expertise for a meaningful mission? The Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in North Charleston, South Carolina, is currently hiring for an Engineering Technician within their Healthcare Technology Management department. This position offers a unique blend of technical design, 3D printing, and additive manufacturing, directly supporting the innovative health care of our nation’s Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

The selected candidate will serve as an Additive Manufacturing Technician, contributing to the VHA Innovation Ecosystem. Key responsibilities include:

Technical Design: Utilize Computer Aided Design (CAD) to model, scan, and develop components for 3D printing.
Quality Assurance: Establish rigorous quality control standards and standard operating procedures (SOPs) compliant with FDA, ISO, and AAMI regulations.
Production: Plan and execute 3D printing production, including material selection, troubleshooting, and post-processing.
Collaboration: Work alongside scientists, researchers, and staff engineers to solve complex technical challenges.

Requirements

To qualify for this GS-11 position, applicants must meet the following criteria by the closing date:

Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level.
Education Substitution: Qualifying graduate-level education or a Ph.D. may be substituted for part of the experience requirements.
Documentation: A two-page resume is required, clearly outlining your professional experience.

Comparison of Qualifications

Qualification Type	Minimum Requirement	Recommended Preparation
Experience	1 Year at GS-9 level	Detailed resume with hours worked
Education	Masters or 3 years Grad work	Official transcripts
Technical Skill	CAD Proficiency	Portfolio of 3D design projects

Salary Overview

This position is graded at the GS-11 level, with a competitive annual salary range of $74,678 to $97,087. Federal salary structures provide predictable growth and stability.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides access to an extensive benefits package, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Retirement benefits through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
A generous leave program (vacation and sick days).
Opportunities for professional training and career advancement.

Application Tips

Mind the Page Limit: The two-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Keep your information relevant to the job.
Be Specific: Use clear, results-focused language. Do not assume the hiring team knows your previous duties.
Prepare for Assessments: You will likely need to complete the USA Hire assessments. Set aside sufficient time to complete these carefully.

If you are an engineering professional who is passionate about technology and service, this role at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center is an exceptional opportunity. Take the next step in your career by applying before the September 8, 2026, deadline.

Why This Engineering Technician Job Matters

Join the forefront of medical innovation in South Carolina, where your engineering expertise directly impacts the lives of our nation's Veterans through cutting-edge 3D printing technology.

Engineering Technician Job Overview

The Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center is seeking a skilled Engineering Technician to join our Healthcare Technology Management department. As a member of the Additive Manufacturing Program, you will play a pivotal role in designing, producing, and maintaining medical components, supporting innovative healthcare solutions for those who have served. This role is perfect for a technical professional who thrives on problem-solving and wants to bridge the gap between mechanical design and patient care.

Requirements for Engineering Technician

U.S. Citizenship
Ability to complete all required online application steps and assessments
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 level
Submission of a current resume (maximum two pages)
Must meet Time-In-Grade requirements for current federal employees
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment

Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Technician

Advanced degree or extensive graduate education in a related field
Proven proficiency in Computer Aided Design (CAD) modeling
Experience with medical device manufacturing guidelines and regulations (FDA, ISO, AAMI)
Background in 3D printing, additive manufacturing, and post-processing techniques
Strong analytical skills for identifying system malfunctions and designing mechanical structures

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
✓Work-life balance initiatives
✓Career growth and professional development opportunities

💡 How to Apply Engineering Technician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Engineering Technician Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a two-page resume highlighting relevant experience.
Complete the required online application and assessment questionnaire.
Upload all supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is concise and strictly limited to two pages to remain eligible.
Clearly define your experience with specific job titles, dates, and hours per week.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder for optimal formatting.
Don't forget to attach your most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
Practice using the USA Hire assessment resources before your deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this position is located at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in North Charleston, South Carolina, and is not a virtual position.

Can I use education to qualify for this grade?

Yes, applicants can qualify through a combination of graduate education and experience, or through a Ph.D./equivalent doctoral degree if relevant.

What is the work schedule?

The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, though this may change based on agency needs.

Is relocation assistance offered?

No, relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 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 VA, you become part of a mission-driven organization that values compassion, integrity, and innovation in the delivery of whole health care.