Health Technician Opportunity at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Detroit, Michigan

Are you passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's heroes? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking dedicated and skilled individuals to join their esteemed team as a Health Technician at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit, Michigan. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the comprehensive healthcare provided to Veterans, working as an integral part of the Primary Care Service (PACT).

If you possess a strong foundation in healthcare support, a commitment to patient well-being, and a desire to serve those who have served us, this position may be the perfect fit for your career aspirations. Explore the details of this exciting federal employment opportunity and discover how you can contribute to the VA's mission.

About the Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the second-largest federal department in the United States, dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The VA provides a wide spectrum of services, including healthcare, benefits, and memorial services, to millions of Veterans across the country.

The John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit is a cornerstone of this mission in Southeast Michigan. As a full-service medical center, it offers primary, secondary, and tertiary care, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a strong focus on education and research. The facility boasts a wide array of medical, surgical, and mental health services, including specialized care for cardiac health, cancer, orthopedics, women's health, and more. The VA is committed to a Whole Health System of care, empowering Veterans to take charge of their health and well-being through personalized plans, healing relationships, and community connections.

Job Responsibilities

As a Health Technician, you will play a vital role within the PACT team, supporting medical and nursing staff in delivering exceptional outpatient care. Your responsibilities will encompass a range of clinical, laboratory, and administrative duties essential for the diagnosis and treatment of patient illnesses and medical conditions. Key duties include:

• Direct Patient Care: Independently perform direct patient care activities such as patient intake, obtaining vital signs, performing ECGs, completing clinical reminders, and conducting medication reconciliation.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Monitor patients for adverse reactions, recognize abnormalities, and promptly report findings to nurses or providers. Document all findings accurately in the electronic health record.
• Diagnostic Support: Perform specialized tests like Snellen and Ishihara's Color Deficiency tests, collect tissue cultures or specimen samples, and fit patients for medical devices such as compression hose, blood pressure machines, and splints.
• Emergency Response: Respond to medical emergencies by assisting in resuscitation measures, initiating Basic Life Support (BLS), and activating the emergency medical system. Assist medical personnel during emergent situations and de-escalate agitated Veterans.
• Procedure Assistance: Position patients for procedures, explain processes, gain patient cooperation, set up sterile fields, and assist providers during minor to moderate procedures.
• Patient Support: Transport patients via wheelchair or assist ambulatory patients to various areas within the facility. Perform patient care procedures, including specimen collection and dressing application.
• Administrative Functions: Maintain control records for specimens and tests, document measurements taken, and order/maintain specialized supplies.
• Patient Interaction: Receive and direct patients, answer routine inquiries via phone, fax, or secure messages, and make appropriate referrals. Assist patients in contacting other departments or services as needed.
• Training and Development: Participate in ongoing clinical education and training, and potentially provide orientation or training to staff regarding specific equipment or instruments.
• Potential Travel: May be required to travel to Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) to support PACT services.

Requirements

To be considered for this Health Technician position, applicants must meet all qualifications by the announcement's closing date, October 29, 2026. The requirements include:

• U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• English Proficiency: A high degree of proficiency in basic written and spoken English is mandatory for direct patient care positions.
• Specialized Experience (GS-06 Level): A minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-05) is required. This experience should demonstrate proficiency in areas such as phlebotomy, vital signs monitoring, specimen handling, patient observation, performing diagnostic tests, and utilizing medical equipment. Your resume must detail this experience.
• OR Education Substitution: Alternatively, applicants may qualify with six months of graduate education (approximately 9 semester hours) directly related to the duties of a Health Technician. Transcripts are required if you are qualifying based on education.
• OR Combination: A combination of specialized experience and graduate education that equates to the qualification requirements is also acceptable. Transcripts and a detailed resume are necessary.

Additional Requirements:

• Completion of an online assessment is mandatory.
• Selected candidates may undergo a urinalysis for illegal drug use.
• Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
• A one-year probationary period will be served.
• Appropriate identification is required for pre-employment processes.
• Mandatory participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is required.

Salary Overview

This Health Technician position is graded at the GS-06 level. The annual salary ranges from $50,087 to $65,113, depending on the applicant's qualifications and experience.

Benefits

As a federal employee with the Department of Veterans Affairs, you are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Benefits may include:

• Health Insurance: Access to Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, offering a choice of plans.
• Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), including a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with potential government matching contributions.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual (vacation) leave, sick leave, and paid federal holidays.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued education, training, and career advancement within the VA system.
• Work Schedule: Typically Monday through Friday, with rotating shifts (e.g., 7:00 am - 3:30 pm or 9:00 am - 5:30 pm).

Application Process

To apply for this Health Technician position, follow these steps carefully:

1. Review the Announcement: Read the entire job announcement and all instructions thoroughly.
2. USAJOBS Account: Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
3. Complete Application: Fill out the online application and the required questionnaire accurately.
4. Submit Documents: Upload your resume, transcripts (if applicable), and any other required supporting documents.
5. Deadline: Ensure your complete application package is submitted by 11:59 PM ET on October 29, 2026.
6. Online Assessment: If required, complete the USA Hire assessments promptly after receiving the notification and unique access link.

Application Tips

• Detail Your Experience: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your specialized experience, including job titles, duties performed, and dates of employment (month/year). Be specific about your skills and accomplishments.
• Resume Length: Adhere to the two-page resume limit. Focus on relevance, conciseness, and results.
• Keywords: Align your resume language with the keywords and competencies mentioned in the job announcement.
• Accuracy: Double-check all information submitted for accuracy.
• Timeliness: Submit your application well in advance of the closing date to avoid technical issues.
• Supporting Documents: Ensure all required documents, such as transcripts, are uploaded correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the salary range for this position?	The annual salary ranges from $50,087 to $65,113.
What are the basic qualifications?	U.S. Citizenship, English proficiency, and either one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-05 or six months of related graduate education.
Is this a remote or virtual position?	No, this position is located in Detroit, Michigan, and is not virtual or remote.
What documents are required for the application?	A resume is required. Transcripts are needed if qualifying by education. Other documents may be required based on eligibility (e.g., Veterans' Preference documentation, SF-50s).
When is the application deadline?	The application deadline is October 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
Will I need to complete an online assessment?	Yes, an online assessment is a mandatory part of the application process. You will receive instructions on how to access it after submitting your initial application.
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?	Yes, volunteer work that directly relates to the duties of the position can be used to demonstrate qualifying experience. Ensure it is clearly documented on your resume.
What is the work schedule for this position?	The work schedule is typically Monday-Friday, with rotating shifts between 7:00 am - 3:30 pm and 9:00 am - 5:30 pm.
Are relocation or recruitment incentives offered?	Relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
What is the difference between requirements and preferred qualifications?	Requirements are the minimum qualifications you must possess to be considered for the position. Preferred qualifications are those that would make a candidate stand out but are not mandatory. For this announcement, there are no specific preferred qualifications listed.

This Health Technician position at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Detroit, Michigan, offers a rewarding career path for individuals committed to serving Veterans. By joining the VA, you become part of an organization dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare and honoring the service of our nation's heroes. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to contribute your skills in a meaningful way, we encourage you to apply and take the next step in your federal career journey.