Launch Your Career as a Health Tech (Optician) with the VA in Somerset, KY
Are you a skilled Optician looking for a career that offers both professional challenge and personal fulfillment? The Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) is hiring a Health Tech (Optician) at the Somerset, KY VA Medical Center. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to support the men and women who have sacrificed for our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As an Optician, your day-to-day work will center on ensuring Veterans receive high-quality optical care. Your duties include:
- Customer Service: Greeting patients, assisting with frame selection, and explaining product options.
- Technical Measurements: Using equipment like pupilometers and lensometers to ensure accurate fittings.
- Record Keeping: Documenting patient data within the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS).
- Coordination: Acting as a liaison between the eye clinic, prosthetics, and optical laboratories.
- Operations: Managing inventory, ensuring displays are clean, and processing sales transactions.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- A minimum of one year of hands-on experience as an Optician.
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Ability to perform technical optical tasks and solve prescription issues independently.
- Possession of a current, valid REAL ID.
- Ability to pass a federal background investigation.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $48,142 - $62,565 per year |
| Work Schedule | Full-time |
| Location | Somerset, Kentucky |
| Industry | Government / Healthcare |
Application Tips
When applying for federal positions, specificity is key. Ensure your resume highlights your technical proficiency with optical tools and your experience handling patient interactions. Do not leave any gaps in your professional history and double-check your application in the USAJOBS portal to confirm that all uploaded documents have successfully passed the system's virus scan.
If you are an experienced Optician who values patient care and wants to contribute to a mission-driven organization, we encourage you to apply. This role offers competitive compensation and the reward of serving those who have served us.
Why This Vcs Health Tech (Optician)- Somerset Ky Job Matters
Join a mission-driven team where your optical expertise directly impacts the comfort and well-being of America's Veterans.
Vcs Health Tech (Optician)- Somerset Ky Job Overview
The Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) is seeking a skilled Optician to join the Somerset, KY VA Medical Center team. In this role, you will provide essential optical services, assist Veterans with frame selection and measurements, and ensure the seamless operation of our optical shop. This is a unique opportunity to combine your technical background with a commitment to high-quality patient care within the VA healthcare network.
Requirements for Vcs Health Tech (Optician)- Somerset Ky
- Minimum of one year of professional experience working as an Optician.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Ability to work independently while managing a fast-paced optical environment.
- Proficiency with essential optical tools, including lensometers, pupilometers, and bench tools.
- Current, valid REAL ID.
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Successful completion of a one-year probationary trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Vcs Health Tech (Optician)- Somerset Ky
- Proven track record of resolving prescription discrepancies and identifying optical anomalies.
- Experience with computerized patient record systems.
- Strong interpersonal skills for coordinating between clinics, labs, and vendors.
- Expertise in frame selection, optical alignment, and segment height accuracy.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal pay scale
- ✓Opportunities to serve those who have served the country
- ✓Professional environment within the VA Healthcare system
- ✓Training and development within the Veterans Canteen Service
💡 How to Apply Vcs Health Tech (Optician)- Somerset Ky Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Vcs Health Tech (Optician)- Somerset Ky Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and gather necessary documentation such as SF-50s or transcripts.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire within the application portal.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Review your submission and ensure all answers are accurate before the deadline.
- Click 'Submit My Answers' to finalize your application.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and detailed when describing your optical experience; do not assume the hiring team knows your previous tasks.
- Double-check your application status in your USAJOBS dashboard to ensure all documents have cleared the virus scan.
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your technical proficiency with optical equipment.
- Submit your package well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of the Veterans Canteen Service?
VCS provides essential merchandise and services to Veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare system, their families, and VA employees, with all proceeds aimed at enhancing the comfort and well-being of those we serve.
Are Veterans' Preference rules applied to this role?
Since the Veterans Canteen Service operates under 38 U.S.C. 7802, traditional Veterans' Preference rules do not apply, though qualified Veterans will be given full consideration.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this position is located on-site at the Somerset, KY VA Medical Center and requires in-person attendance.
What happens during the trial period?
*A: New hires are required to serve a one-year trial period to evaluate performance and ensure that employment aligns with the agency's goals.*
Can I apply if I am not a Veteran?
*A: Yes, this position is open to the public.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) has been a vital part of the Department of Veterans Affairs since 1946. As a program office within the Veterans Health Administration, the VCS mission is simple: to provide reasonably priced merchandise and services that enhance the comfort and well-being of Veterans, their families, and VA staff. By working here, you become part of the largest healthcare system in the United States.