Become a Surgical Technician at the Iowa City VA Health Care System
The Iowa City VA Health Care System is proud to invite skilled professionals to join our surgical team. We are currently recruiting a dedicated Surgical Technician to provide life-enhancing support to the men and women who have served in our nation's military. If you are passionate about clinical excellence and working in a high-acuity environment, this role offers the perfect platform to advance your healthcare career.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be a vital link in the surgical process. Your duties will include:
- Sterilization and Setup: Preparing and maintaining sterile fields according to strict protocols.
- Equipment Management: Testing and inspecting medical instruments to ensure optimal functionality.
- Collaboration: Assisting surgeons, nurses, and other staff to facilitate smooth surgical procedures.
- Patient Care: Assisting in the transport and positioning of patients.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate the necessary technical skills. Below is a comparison of qualification paths:
| Qualification Path | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Experience | Minimum 6-12 months of specialized surgical or medical technical work. |
| Education | Related Associate or Bachelor’s degree coursework in surgical tech or anatomy. |
| Combination | A balance of education and relevant hands-on experience. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $47,902 to $77,664 per year. Beyond base pay, the VA offers:
- Federal retirement contributions.
- Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Career advancement and promotion potential.
Serving our Veterans requires dedication, precision, and heart. By joining the Iowa City VA, you join a legacy of excellence. We encourage all qualified applicants to review the full announcement and submit their application today.
Why This Surgical Technician - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized Job Matters
Join the Iowa City VA Health Care System and play a pivotal role in the operating room, delivering life-changing care to those who have served our nation.
Surgical Technician - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized Job Overview
The Iowa City VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Surgical Technician to join its elite surgical specialty team. As an integral member of the clinical staff, you will facilitate surgical procedures by preparing sterile fields, managing complex instrumentation, and anticipating the needs of the surgical team. This position offers the opportunity to work within a 5-Star CMS-rated facility known for its commitment to innovation and excellence in Veterans' healthcare.
Requirements for Surgical Technician - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Completion of online assessment and application questionnaire
- Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug screening
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Ability to work in a high-stress operating room environment
- One-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Surgical Technician - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized
- Prior surgical technician or procedural experience
- Documented expertise in aseptic techniques and surgical instrument handling
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Generous paid leave (vacation and sick time)
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Surgical Technician - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Surgical Technician - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically details your relevant experience, including hours worked per week.
- Submit your application and all required documents (transcripts, SF-50 if applicable) via the online portal.
- Complete the required USA Hire assessment upon notification.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages to comply with federal merit hiring standards.
- Clearly document your work history with month/year start and end dates.
- Use specific, results-oriented language that aligns with the job announcement duties.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page count.
- Set aside uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance available?
Relocation or recruitment incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates.
What is the work schedule?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm, with specific shifts for call weeks.
Can I use education to qualify?
Yes, depending on the grade level, you may substitute education for experience if the degree or credits are directly related to surgical technology.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
Since 1952, the Iowa City VA has stood as a beacon of high-quality, compassionate care. As a 5-Star CMS-rated facility and a recipient of the ANA Pathway to Excellence designation, we pride ourselves on a culture that values innovation and professional growth. We are closely affiliated with the University of Iowa, providing an environment that blends clinical service with academic discovery.