Become a Surgical Technician with the VA in Des Moines
The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is currently looking for a skilled and passionate Surgical Technician to join our perioperative team. If you are an experienced professional committed to high standards of patient care and sterile excellence, this role offers you the unique opportunity to serve those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will serve as a vital member of the surgical team. Your daily duties will include:
- Clinical Support: Operating surgical robotics, lasers, and endoscopic systems.
- Sterile Field Management: Maintaining strict aseptic environments and ensuring instruments are properly sterilized.
- Team Collaboration: Working with surgeons and nurses to prepare equipment and assist during complex procedures.
- Administrative Tasks: Managing surgical schedules and ensuring supply cabinets are fully stocked.
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship.
- English language proficiency.
- One year of specialized experience.
- Completion of drug screening.
Candidate Comparison Table
| Criteria | Required | Highly Desirable |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | Not Specified | Surgical Tech Certification |
| Experience | 1 Year Specialized | 3+ Years in OR |
| Education | HS Diploma/GED | Associate Degree |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $58,962 to $76,651 per year. Employees also benefit from federal leave accrual policies and the chance to integrate into a supportive, mission-driven workplace.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume under two pages.
- Be specific about your hours worked per week.
- Double-check all documentation before submission.
Serving as a Surgical Technician at the VA is more than a job; it is a commitment to the wellbeing of our nation's heroes. Apply today to bring your expertise to the VA Central Iowa Health Care System.
Why This Surgical Technician Job Matters
Launch your career in the operating room with the VA and provide life-changing care to our nation’s heroes in Des Moines.
Surgical Technician Job Overview
The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Surgical Technician to join our perioperative department. In this critical role, you will provide essential support during surgical procedures, ensuring sterile fields are maintained and that surgical teams have the equipment they need to provide world-class care to our Veterans.
Requirements for Surgical Technician
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Adherence to mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination programs
Preferred Qualifications for Surgical Technician
- Educational background in surgical technology, anatomy, physiology, or aseptic techniques
- Demonstrated experience in complex sterile surgical setups
- Proven ability to handle complex surgical instrumentation and robotics
- Strong collaborative skills for working with surgical and nursing teams
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal leave accrual based on service time
- ✓Potential for credit for non-federal experience toward leave accrual
- ✓Comprehensive health and wellness support
- ✓Professional development opportunities in a medical center environment
💡 How to Apply Surgical Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Surgical Technician Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less
- Submit your application and questionnaire online
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessments if prompted
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50s
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details duties, month/year start/end dates, and hours worked per week.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure compliance with the two-page limit.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Clearly document volunteer and unpaid experience if it is relevant to the required competencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the appointment type for this position?
This is a temporary appointment, not to exceed two years, and will not be converted to a permanent status.
Are there physical demands for this role?
Yes, the role requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and positioning patients, as well as working in an environment that requires specialized PPE.
Is the position eligible for remote work?
No, this position is not virtual and requires on-site attendance at the Des Moines facility.
Can I work from home?
No, this is an on-site, physical role within the operating room.
Is there potential for permanent employment?
This is a temporary appointment not to exceed two years.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for our Veterans. Our healthcare system in Des Moines provides a full spectrum of services, including surgical, primary care, and behavioral health, to thousands of local Veterans.