Launch Your Career as a Health Technician (Surgical) at Fort Riley
Are you looking for a career that combines technical skill with a commitment to service? Irwin Army Community Hospital, part of the prestigious Defense Health Agency (DHA), is currently hiring Health Technicians (Surgical) at Fort Riley, Kansas. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who serve our country while working in a high-tech, collaborative surgical environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Health Technician, your role is pivotal to the success of every procedure. Your daily tasks will include:
- Patient Coordination: Safely transporting patients from units to the Operating Room.
- Surgical Support: Positioning and draping patients, handing instruments to surgeons, and maintaining a sterile field.
- Operational Readiness: Selecting, assembling, and organizing equipment; operating cleaning and sterilization devices.
- Facility Maintenance: Ensuring the OR is cleaned and fully stocked according to the surgical schedule.
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must meet specific criteria:
Comparison of Qualification Paths
| Path | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level or equivalent. |
| Education | 1 full year of graduate-level study in a related field. |
| Hybrid | A combination of months of experience and graduate hours totaling 100%. |
Note: All applicants must be U.S. citizens and are subject to a drug test.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $50,460 to $65,599 per year, including locality pay. Beyond the paycheck, the federal government offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Retirement savings programs.
- Opportunities for salary negotiation for those new to federal service.
- Accrued leave and paid federal holidays.
Application Tips for Success
- The Two-Page Rule: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submitting a longer document will result in automatic disqualification.
- Clear Documentation: Ensure you include employer names, titles, and exact hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Use the Questionnaire: The online questionnaire is a critical component of your application—do not skip it.
Working at Irwin Army Community Hospital means more than just a job; it means joining a dedicated team of professionals focused on excellence. If you have the surgical expertise and the drive to support military healthcare, submit your application today.
Why This Health Technician (Surgical) Job Matters
Join the surgical team at Irwin Army Community Hospital and play a vital role in patient care and military readiness in the beautiful Flint Hills region.
Health Technician (Surgical) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking dedicated Health Technicians (Surgical) to join the Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley, Kansas. This mission-critical role supports our military personnel and their families by ensuring the seamless operation of surgical units. As a Health Technician, you will be an integral member of the operating room team, handling everything from patient transport to instrument preparation.
Requirements for Health Technician (Surgical)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level, including assisting in surgical procedures and OR maintenance.
- Alternatively, completion of one full year of graduate-level education in a field directly related to surgical technology.
- A combination of education and experience that meets the 100% threshold.
- Must submit a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Must be willing to undergo a drug test.
- Ability to work in a mission-essential position, including during inclement weather.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Surgical)
- Experience in maintaining sterile environments in surgical settings.
- Familiarity with hospital equipment such as ultrasonic cleaners and sterilizers.
- Strong organizational skills for supply management in fast-paced clinical environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Opportunities for salary negotiation for new federal employees
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual programs
- ✓Participation in the federal retirement system
💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Surgical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician (Surgical) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing portal.
- Upload required documents, including transcripts if substituting education for experience.
- Review your application package for accuracy before submission.
- Submit your application before the closing date of December 31, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages; any longer and your application will be automatically removed from consideration.
- Use plain language and avoid obscure acronyms in your resume descriptions.
- Include specific start/end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job entry.
- Ensure your transcripts are uploaded if you are using education to qualify.
- Check your application status regularly through the USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mission-essential status?
This position requires the incumbent to report for duty during emergencies, natural disasters, or inclement weather, as the facility must remain operational at all times.
Can I negotiate my salary?
Yes, salary negotiation may be available for candidates who are new to federal service.
What if I have foreign education?
You must provide a professional evaluation confirming that your foreign education is equivalent to a U.S. accredited program.
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an on-site, mission-essential role at Fort Riley, KS.*
Will I have to work during bad weather?
*A: Yes, as a mission-essential employee, you are expected to report for duty during inclement weather or emergencies.*
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system dedicated to providing medical, dental, and pharmacy services to over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. At Irwin Army Community Hospital (IACH), located in the scenic Flint Hills, employees benefit from a unique blend of mission-driven work and an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.