Launch Your Career as a Medical Technician at Madigan Army Medical Center
Are you a skilled laboratory professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Medical Technician to join the team at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. This role is a vital component of the military health system, ensuring that service members and their families receive accurate and timely diagnostic results.
Job Responsibilities
As a Medical Technician, your daily tasks are centered on operational readiness and clinical accuracy. Your responsibilities include:
- Specimen Management: Safely collecting and processing laboratory specimens for testing.
- Quality Assurance: Performing waived-complexity testing and ensuring all equipment is calibrated according to strict standard operating procedures.
- Data Integrity: Managing laboratory information systems, logging samples, and entering test results with 100% accuracy.
- Coordination: Evaluating incoming samples for proper type and timing, then preparing them for shipment to the main lab when necessary.
Requirements and Qualifications
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship: Required for all federal appointments.
- Certification: You must hold a valid Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification from the ASCP, AMT, or an equivalent registry.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized laboratory experience equivalent to the GS-06 level.
- Resume Formatting: Your resume is capped at two pages. This is a strict requirement; submissions exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Qualification Comparison Table
| Qualification Type | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Work Experience | 1 year of specialized experience (specimen collection/lab equipment) |
| Education | 1 full year of graduate-level study in Biology, Chemistry, or Clinical Lab Science |
| Certification | Must hold active ASCP/AMT certification prior to start date |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $68,970 to $89,662 per year, which includes applicable locality pay. Beyond the paycheck, the federal government offers an unmatched benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive Health Insurance.
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with employer matching.
- Annual leave and sick leave accrual.
Application Tips
Success in the federal hiring process often comes down to preparation. Ensure your resume highlights your clinical competencies using plain language rather than obscure internal jargon. Since this is a Direct Hire position, the hiring manager will evaluate your qualifications strictly against the evidence provided in your application package. Remember to upload all transcripts if you are leveraging education to meet the qualification requirements.
Becoming a Medical Technician at Madigan Army Medical Center is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in the service of our military personnel. If you meet the criteria and are ready to advance your career in a supportive, mission-driven environment, review your application materials and apply before the October 16, 2026, deadline.
Why This Medical Technician Job Matters
Launch your clinical career with the Defense Health Agency at Madigan Army Medical Center—where your precision in the lab directly impacts the readiness of our nation's heroes.
Medical Technician Job Overview
The Department of Pathology and Area Laboratory Services at Madigan Army Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Medical Technician to support operations within the Okubo Soldier Centered Medical Home Laboratory on Joint Base Lewis-McChord. This role is essential for maintaining high standards of laboratory diagnostics, specimen integrity, and patient care for military personnel and their families.
Requirements for Medical Technician
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Completion of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level in federal service.
- Possession of a valid certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) from the ASCP, AMT, or a board/registry deemed comparable by the OASD(HA).
- Ability to demonstrate proficiency in specimen collection, laboratory equipment calibration, and computer data entry.
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages or less.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period upon hiring.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Technician
- One full year of graduate-level education in Clinical Laboratory Science, Biology, Chemistry, or Microbiology.
- Proven track record in managing laboratory workflows and quality control standards.
- Ability to effectively navigate laboratory information systems to log samples and record results.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates
- ✓Professional development and career advancement opportunities
💡 How to Apply Medical Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Technician Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Review your resume to ensure it is no more than two pages and highlights relevant specialized experience.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing portal.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts (if using education to qualify) and professional certifications.
- Submit your complete application package before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on October 16, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS applicant dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly detail hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Avoid using complex acronyms; use plain, descriptive language that clearly illustrates your technical competencies.
- Double-check that your certification is active and meets the specific board requirements listed.
- Upload your documents early to allow for the automated virus scan, which can take up to an hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this position?
No, this position is designated as Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk, though a suitability/fitness adjudication is required.
Can I substitute education for the required work experience?
Yes, you may qualify through one year of graduate-level education in a related field or a combination of graduate education and relevant work experience.
Is relocation assistance available?
Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates, but Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not covered.
Is there a drug test for this position?
*A: Yes, this position requires a drug test.
Is telework available?
*A: No, this is an on-site clinical position at the Okubo Soldier Centered Medical Home Laboratory.
How do I know if my application was successful?
*A: You will receive automated status updates via your USAJOBS account dashboard throughout the hiring process.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is a joint, integrated combat support agency that enables the military medical services to provide a medically ready force. Working at a facility like Madigan Army Medical Center offers a unique environment where clinical excellence meets service to our nation. You will be part of a team dedicated to providing high-quality care, pharmacy programs, and medical support to over 9.5 million beneficiaries worldwide.