Medical Supply Technician: A Vital Career at the Salem VA Medical Center
Are you seeking a career that combines technical precision with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for a motivated Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing) to join the team at the Salem VA Medical Center. This role is essential to patient safety, ensuring that every surgical instrument and medical device used in our facilities is pristine, functional, and ready for care.
Job Responsibilities
As a Medical Supply Technician, you will perform high-level duties within the Sterile Processing Service. Your core tasks include:
- Decontamination: Cleaning and disinfecting critical and semi-critical medical equipment.
- Preparation & Assembly: Organizing surgical trays, identifying instrument needs, and packaging items for sterilization.
- Sterilization: Operating steam, low-temperature, and chemical sterilizers while meticulously documenting load results.
- Quality Control: Conducting biological spore testing and efficacy audits to ensure absolute safety.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific federal standards:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Language: Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Medical: Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Experience/Education: At least six months of relevant work experience or one year of post-high school education including 6+ hours of healthcare-related coursework.
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-6 level, offering a competitive salary range of $56,646 to $73,640 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.
Compensation Comparison Table
| Benefit Feature | Federal (VA) Standard | Private Sector Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement | Pension + 401K Match | Variable |
| Paid Time Off | Up to 50 days (Leave + Holidays) | Varies by employer |
| Healthcare | Comprehensive Federal Options | Variable Premiums |
| Job Security | High (Career Tenure) | Varies |
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous leave accrual and paid federal holidays.
- Traditional federal pension and a 401(k) style plan.
- Paid parental leave.
- Potential for childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: In your resume, detail your specific experience with sterilization equipment and instrumentation.
- Documents: Ensure you include your transcripts if qualifying via education.
- Follow Instructions: Missing documentation often leads to disqualification.
Serving those who have served us is a privilege. If you possess a keen eye for detail and a commitment to sterile excellence, we encourage you to submit your application for the Medical Supply Technician role at the Salem VA Medical Center today.
Why This Medical Supply Technician - Sterile Processing Job Matters
Join the Salem VA Medical Center team as a Medical Supply Technician and ensure our nation’s heroes receive the highest standard of sterile, life-saving equipment.
Medical Supply Technician - Sterile Processing Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Medical Supply Technician to join our Sterile Processing Service at the Salem VA Medical Center in Virginia. In this role, you will be the backbone of surgical and clinical safety, responsible for the decontamination, assembly, sterilization, and distribution of critical Reusable Medical Equipment (RME). You will work in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment where precision and attention to detail directly impact the quality of care provided to our Veterans.
Requirements for Medical Supply Technician - Sterile Processing
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a background security investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Successful completion of a drug screening test prior to appointment.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Supply Technician - Sterile Processing
- Six months of specialized experience in sterile processing, surgical instrumentation, or medical supply handling.
- Completion of one year of education above high school, including 6 semester hours in healthcare-related coursework (nursing, surgical tech, etc.).
- Strong knowledge of surgical instrumentation, medical terminology, and anatomy.
- Demonstrated ability to operate complex sterilization equipment (steam, Sterrad, etc.).
- Experience in maintaining inventory PAR levels and managing surgical case carts.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Generous paid time off including annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and 401(k) Thrift Savings Plan with employer match.
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for qualifying families.
- ✓Opportunity to carry insurance programs into retirement.
💡 How to Apply Medical Supply Technician - Sterile Processing Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Supply Technician - Sterile Processing Job
- Create or log into your account on the official federal hiring portal.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details and prepare your long-form resume.
- Complete the required online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all supporting documentation, such as transcripts, certifications, or military service records (DD-214).
- Submit your application package before the deadline on November 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is detailed and maps your experience directly to the 'Major Duties' section.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your previous responsibilities; clearly list your actions and the results.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before hitting submit.
- If you are using education to qualify, ensure your transcript clearly shows the relevant healthcare-related credits.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this role?
This position focuses on the decontamination, inspection, assembly, and sterilization of Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) for use in surgical and clinical settings.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an onsite position requiring physical presence in the Sterile Processing department.
What is the work schedule?
The position is scheduled Monday-Friday, 3:15 pm – 12:00 am, with occasional call requirements.
Are there opportunities for growth?
The VA offers numerous career development tools for current employees, including coaching and advancement support.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served our nation. The Salem VA Medical Center, located in the beautiful Roanoke Valley, serves as a hub for veteran care, offering a supportive environment surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.