Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Surgical Health Technician in Phoenix

Are you a certified surgical technician looking for a role that combines professional excellence with meaningful service? The Phoenix Indian Medical Center, part of the Indian Health Service (IHS), is currently accepting applications for a Health Technician (Surgical). This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the high-quality, compassionate care provided to American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

About the Agency: Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a dynamic, nationwide organization dedicated to meeting the individual healthcare needs of American Indians and Alaska Natives. Working with the IHS is more than just a job; it is a commitment to improving health outcomes for over 2 million people. Our culture is defined by innovation, teamwork, and a profound respect for the communities we serve.

Job Responsibilities

As a Health Technician (Surgical), you will be the backbone of the operating room. Your daily duties will include:

Sterile Field Management: Setting up the sterile field and ensuring all instruments and supplies are ready for procedures.
Surgical Support: Assisting surgeons directly by handling instruments, cutting sutures, applying skin staples, and suctioning during procedures.
Safety Protocols: Maintaining strict adherence to universal precautions and infection control policies.
Hazard Mitigation: Recognizing and correcting hazardous situations to ensure a safe operative environment for both the patient and the surgical team.

Role Comparison Table

Feature	Health Technician (Surgical)	Typical Clinical Role
Setting	High-Intensity Operating Room	General Clinic/Ward
Focus	Surgical Support/Sterility	Patient Intake/Care Coordination
Requirements	CST or TS-C Certification	State License/Basic Certification
Patient Interaction	High (during procedure)	Constant (daily check-ins)

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:

Certification: You must provide proof of your Certified Surgical Technician (CST) or Certified Technician in Surgery (TS-C) credential.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent.
Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
Background Check: Successful clearance of a federal background investigation and financial suitability screening.

Salary Overview

The position is graded at the GS-07 level, with an annual salary range of $52,783 to $68,620. Compensation is determined by federal pay scales and may include adjustments based on location and experience.

Benefits of Federal Service

Federal employees enjoy a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:

Insurance: Access to competitive federal health and life insurance programs.
Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
Stability: A stable career path within the Department of Health and Human Services.
Incentives: Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses depending on department needs.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in surgical environments.
Certification Proof: Do not forget to attach your valid certification documents.
Assessment Completion: You will be required to take the USA Hire assessment; schedule at least two hours to ensure you have time to focus.
Proofread: Ensure all information, especially your contact details, is accurate to avoid processing delays.

If you are a dedicated professional looking to make a difference, the Indian Health Service invites you to apply. This role offers the perfect blend of clinical challenge and mission-driven service. Start your application today and help us provide the care our patients deserve.

Why This Health Technician (Surgical) Job Matters

Join the Indian Health Service in Phoenix, AZ, as a Surgical Health Technician and play a vital role in providing life-changing care for American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Health Technician (Surgical) Job Overview

The Phoenix Indian Medical Center is seeking a skilled Health Technician (Surgical) to support our interdisciplinary clinical team. This role is central to our surgical operations, ensuring a sterile and efficient environment for procedures ranging from routine to complex. Candidates will work alongside surgeons to ensure patient safety and surgical excellence, directly impacting the health outcomes of over 2 million individuals served by the Indian Health Service.

Requirements for Health Technician (Surgical)

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Must be a Certified Surgical Technician (CST) via NBSTSA or a Certified Technician in Surgery (TS-C) via NCCT.
Must have at least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level or an equivalent combination of graduate education and experience.
Successful completion of a federal background investigation.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 1959.
Must possess a REAL ID-compliant identification document.
Ability to work on-call or standby hours as required.

Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Surgical)

Demonstrated expertise in maintaining aseptic surgical environments.
Proven history of anticipating surgeon needs during complex surgical procedures.
Strong interpersonal and stress-management skills in a high-pressure clinical setting.
Professional history of adhering to strict infection control and universal precaution policies.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
✓Competitive federal leave accrual based on years of service
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Opportunities for professional development within the Department of Health and Human Services
✓Access to a stable and supportive federal career path

💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Surgical) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Health Technician (Surgical) Job

Prepare your resume detailing relevant experience and certifications.
Log into your USAJOBS account to complete the online questionnaire.
Submit your application and all required documents, including your CST or TS-C certification.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment within the assigned testing window.
Monitor your application status via your USAJOBS dashboard for updates or interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the duties described in the job announcement.
Double-check that all required documents, especially certifications and transcripts, are uploaded before the deadline.
Take the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the link; delay can result in automatic disqualification.
Be prepared to answer four optional short-essay questions about your commitment to federal service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary requirement for this Surgical Tech role?

You must hold a valid Certified Surgical Technician (CST) or Certified Technician in Surgery (TS-C) certification to be considered.

Can I substitute education for the required experience?

Yes, you may qualify with 18 semester hours of directly related graduate education or a combination of education and experience.

Is a background check required?

Yes, all candidates must successfully complete a federal background investigation and financial suitability review.

What is the primary role of a Surgical Health Technician at the IHS?

You will assist surgeons by maintaining the sterile field, managing instruments, and participating directly in procedures to ensure patient safety.

Are there opportunities for professional development?

Yes, the federal government offers various internal training and career advancement opportunities.

Is this position remote?

No, this position requires on-site work at the Phoenix Indian Medical Center.