Launch Your Healthcare Career as an Occupational Health Technician
Are you looking for a fulfilling career that serves those who have served our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently hiring a Health Technician (Occupational Health) at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago. This role is essential to maintaining the high standards of care our Veterans and active-duty personnel deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As an Occupational Health Technician, you will be on the front lines of clinic operations. Your primary duties will include:
- Processing patients through the Occupational Medicine Clinic.
- Developing and maintaining a Hearing Conservation database.
- Performing otoscopic examinations and tympanometry testing.
- Conducting spirometry screening and blood pressure testing.
- Calibrating and maintaining specialized medical testing equipment.
- Providing patients with education and counseling on health topics.
- Performing essential clerical tasks, such as scheduling and record maintenance.
Requirements and Qualifications
To be eligible for this position, you must meet strict federal requirements by the closing date of 10/29/2026. Qualifications are assessed based on specialized experience, education, or a combination of both.
Comparison Table: Qualification Requirements
| Level | Experience Required | Education Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| GS-05 | 1 Year of equivalent experience | 4-Year Bachelor's Degree |
| GS-06 | 1 Year at GS-05 level | 9 Semester hours of graduate study |
| GS-07 | 1 Year at GS-06 level | 1 Year (18 sem hours) of graduate study |
Salary and Benefits
The annual salary range for this position is $45,538 to $73,333, commensurate with your grade level and experience. Beyond the salary, the VA offers one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the country, including:
- Health and Wellness: Access to extensive federal health insurance programs.
- Financial Security: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Leave: Generous accrual of annual vacation time and sick leave.
- Growth: Structured promotion potential and ongoing training opportunities.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires meticulous attention to detail. Since September 2025, the VA has implemented a two-page limit for resumes. Ensure yours is concise, results-focused, and highlights competencies relevant to the position. Always save your files as PDFs, and double-check that you have included required documents like transcripts or SF-50s if you are a current federal employee.
This position offers a unique chance to combine your clinical skills with a mission-driven career. By supporting the Occupational Health needs of Veterans and service members, you contribute to a legacy of service. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenging yet rewarding career, apply today via USAJOBS.
Why This Health Technician - Occupational Health Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by joining the Veterans Health Administration as an Occupational Health Technician.
Health Technician - Occupational Health Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as a Health Technician in the Occupational Health Medicine Department at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, Illinois. In this role, you will play a critical part in supporting the healthcare needs of Veterans, military personnel, and beneficiaries. You will be responsible for clinical support duties, including hearing conservation monitoring, immunization screening, and comprehensive patient care documentation within a multidisciplinary clinical team.
Requirements for Health Technician - Occupational Health
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must submit a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Satisfactory background and security investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician - Occupational Health
- Knowledge of federal Occupational Safety and Health programs (asbestos, respiratory protection, ionizing radiation, blood-borne pathogens).
- Experience with hearing and sight conservation programs.
- Ability to perform patient counseling in a tactful, professional manner.
- Familiarity with clinical infection control guidelines.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive Federal Salary
- βAnnual Leave and Sick Leave
- βFederal Health Insurance Programs
- βRetirement Benefits including FERS
- βProfessional Development Opportunities
- βWork-Life Balance
π‘ How to Apply Health Technician - Occupational Health Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician - Occupational Health Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, focusing on relevant experience and specific duties.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s (if applicable).
- Submit your application package by the closing date of 10/29/2026.
- Monitor your status and email for potential USA Hire assessment links.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the number of hours worked per week for each position.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the two-page limit requirement.
- Save and upload your documents as a PDF to maintain formatting.
- Review your application before submission; errors or omissions can impact your eligibility.
- Be prepared for the 3-hour online assessment if notified after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the promotion potential for this position?
This position has a promotion potential up to GS-07, allowing you to advance as you meet regulatory and qualification requirements.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position based at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, Illinois.
Can I use my education to qualify?
Yes, you may qualify based on education, experience, or a combination of both, provided transcripts are submitted at the time of application.
What is the work schedule?
This is a full-time, Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM position.
Is a pre-employment physical required?
No, a pre-employment physical is not required for this role.
Can I update my application after I submit it?
Yes, you can edit your application within the USAJOBS portal until the announcement closes on 10/29/2026.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincolnβs promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. The VHA operates the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, providing comprehensive medical and dental services to Veterans, families, and caregivers. Joining the VHA means becoming part of a community focused on compassionate, whole-health care.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Job Listing
- β Apply Online
- β Application Status
- β OPM Qualification Standards
- β Accreditation Verification
- β Foreign Education Recognition
- β I-9 Acceptable Documents
- β Application Questionnaire Preview
- β USA Hire Applicant Resource Center
- β USAJOBS Help Center
- β Resume Page Limit Guidance
- β VA Benefits Information
- β Career Transition Resources
