Launch Your Healthcare Career at the VA Pittsburgh
Are you searching for a career that combines technical skill with a deep sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Pittsburgh is currently seeking a motivated Medical Technician to join its dedicated laboratory team. This position offers the chance to support those who have served our country by providing essential diagnostic and clinical services.
Job Responsibilities
As a Medical Technician, you will be a vital part of the daily laboratory operations. Your key responsibilities include:
- Performing accurate venipuncture and specimen collection from patients.
- Managing the physical condition of samples to ensure integrity during testing.
- Performing routine diagnostic tests, such as pregnancy tests, urine dipsticks, and glucose monitoring.
- Preparing samples for laboratory testing including labeling, centrifuging, and aliquoting.
- Maintaining laboratory supplies and ensuring equipment, such as autoclaves, is properly sterilized.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Language: Demonstrated proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Phlebotomy Experience: You must have documented experience in performing blood draws on human patients.
- Experience: A combination of six months general and six months specialized experience in medical laboratory support.
- Assessment: Willingness to undergo a pre-employment drug screening.
Comparison of Qualification Pathways
| Pathway | Key Requirement | Documentation Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Only | 1 Year (6mo General / 6mo Specialized) | Detailed Resume |
| Education Only | Degree/Courses in Lab Science | Official/Unofficial Transcripts |
| Combination | Proportional mix of both | Resume & Transcripts |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $39,311 to $51,107 per year. Beyond the salary, the VA provides an excellent benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and insurance plans.
- Predictable scheduling with generous leave options.
- A supportive culture that respects the diverse experiences of both staff and Veterans.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less.
- Be Specific: List duties, start/end dates (month/year), and weekly hours worked for every position.
- Use the Builder: Utilize the USAJOBS resume builder to avoid common formatting pitfalls.
- Proofread: Double-check that your answers on the assessment questionnaire are fully supported by the narrative in your resume.
Serving our Veterans is a high calling that requires skill, empathy, and dedication. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to advance your career in a rewarding healthcare environment, we encourage you to apply to the VA Pittsburgh team today.
Why This Medical Technician Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country as a Medical Technician at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System.
Medical Technician Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated Medical Technician to join the VAMC Pittsburgh Laboratory. This role is essential to our mission of providing compassionate, world-class whole health care to America's Veterans. You will perform vital clinical and administrative support duties, including phlebotomy, specimen processing, and laboratory test preparation, ensuring that the laboratory service operates efficiently and accurately for our patients.
Requirements for Medical Technician
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Selective Placement Factor: Proven experience performing phlebotomy/blood draws on human patients.
- Six months of general experience and six months of specialized experience in medical laboratory support.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Technician
- Experience in a clinical or hospital laboratory setting.
- Proficiency in performing diagnostic tests such as pregnancy tests, urine dipsticks, and glucose monitoring.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain equipment such as autoclaves and laboratory glassware.
- Strong communication skills for coordinating with laboratory and medical staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Generous paid time off (annual and sick leave)
- ✓Flexible and predictable scheduling opportunities
- ✓Meaningful career path serving Veterans
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
- ✓Federal employee benefits package
💡 How to Apply Medical Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Technician Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including transcripts and supporting certifications.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and focused on relevant skills and results, ensuring it does not exceed two pages.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all formatting requirements are met.
- Clearly document your work history, including start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Ensure all educational claims are backed by uploaded transcripts.
- Double-check your application packet for completeness before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a college degree required for this position?
While experience can qualify you, education can also meet the requirements. Please refer to the job announcement for specific semester hour requirements in chemistry or biological sciences.
What is the shift schedule for this position?
The role requires a Monday through Friday schedule with rotating weekends and holidays. Shift start times rotate between 5:30 AM and 7:45 AM.
What if I have foreign education?
*A: If you have foreign education, you must submit a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency along with your transcripts.*
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an onsite position located in Pittsburgh, PA. Relocation or local residence is required.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in the military. Working at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care to our nation's heroes in an environment that values professional growth and work-life balance.