Launch Your Career as a Health Technician with the VA

Are you looking to turn your healthcare skills into a meaningful career that honors our nation's heroes? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Health Technician to join the Eastern Oklahoma VA Healthcare System at the Ernest Childers Outpatient Clinic in Tulsa. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to serve those who have served us while working in a high-standard clinical environment.

Job Responsibilities

The Health Technician plays a multi-faceted role in our Pathology and Laboratory Medical Service. Your daily duties will include:

Laboratory Support: Calibrating equipment, performing routine maintenance on lab machines, and ensuring all testing instruments are operating within regulatory standards.
Patient Interaction: Performing venipuncture, phlebotomy, and specimen collection while maintaining a calm, professional, and patient-centered attitude.
Administrative Duties: Maintaining accurate records, labeling specimens, and ensuring compliance with CLIA and The Joint Commission guidelines.
Clinical Coordination: Instructing patients on collection procedures and coordinating with other departments to ensure seamless care delivery.

Comparison: What We Look For

Feature	GS-5 Level	GS-6 Level
Experience	1 Year of specialized experience	1 Year of specialized experience
Education	Bachelor's Degree or 4 years post-HS	6 months of graduate-level education
Focus	Routine support and basic phlebotomy	Complex specimen processing and procedures

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet several key criteria, including:

U.S. Citizenship: Required for all federal employment.
Resume Standards: You must submit a resume that is no longer than two pages to remain eligible.
Drug Testing: As a testing-designated position, you will be subject to urinalysis.
Vaccinations: You must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $59,031 annually. Beyond the salary, the VA offers a robust benefits package that includes:

Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
Generous annual leave and sick time accrual.
A stable federal retirement pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
An environment that values work-life balance.

Application Tips

Applying for federal jobs can be complex. Here are a few tips to increase your chances:

Use the Resume Builder: The VA highly recommends using the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your resume meets the strict two-page limit and contains the necessary details.
Be Specific: Document your experience with clear start and end dates (month/year) and hours per week. Do not leave the hiring team guessing.
Prepare for Assessments: You will be required to take the USA Hire assessment. Do not underestimate this step; set aside enough time to complete it thoroughly.

The role of a Health Technician is essential to the quality of care provided to our Veterans. If you possess the clinical skills and the desire to provide exceptional service, we encourage you to apply. Join us in Tulsa and make a real difference in the lives of the men and women who have defended our country.

Why This Health Technician Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Eastern Oklahoma VA Healthcare System as a Health Technician.

Health Technician Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Health Technician to join our Pathology and Laboratory Medical Service at the Ernest Childers Outpatient Clinic in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This role is pivotal in supporting our medical personnel and ensuring high-quality, compassionate care for our Veterans. You will handle essential administrative, clinical, and laboratory support tasks, ensuring compliance with both CLIA and The Joint Commission standards.

Requirements for Health Technician

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment.
Resume must not exceed two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician

One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GS-4 or GS-5).
Bachelor's degree with major study or at least 24 semester hours in subjects directly related to the position.
Successful completion of graduate-level education (for GS-6 qualifying).
Ability to perform venipuncture and specimen collection accurately.
Strong interpersonal skills and professional demeanor in patient-facing roles.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal retirement benefits
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
✓Access to a supportive, mission-focused work environment

💡 How to Apply Health Technician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Health Technician Job

Create or log in to your account at USAJOBS.
Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or shorter.
Complete the online questionnaire and required assessments.
Upload all necessary supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, SF-50).
Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on 11/30/2026.

💡 General Tips

Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
Ensure your resume includes month and year for all experience, plus hours worked per week.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet formatting requirements.
Set aside at least three hours to complete the required USA Hire Assessments.
Quantify your experience; the agency will not make assumptions about your skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I qualify with education instead of experience?

Yes. A bachelor's degree with 24 hours in related subjects or a combination of education and experience may qualify you, provided you submit transcripts.

Is a physical examination required?

A pre-placement physical examination is not required for this specific position.

Is relocation assistance offered?

No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.

Can I update my application after I submit it?

Yes, you can return to your USAJOBS account to edit your application or upload new documents until the announcement closes on 11/30/2026.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We take pride in President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have borne the battle. At the Ernest Childers Outpatient Clinic, our team is dedicated to providing whole-person care that meets the unique needs of our Veteran population. Joining our team means joining a culture of excellence, integrity, and deep respect for the individuals we serve.