Launch Your Cardiovascular Career with the VA
Are you a dedicated sonographer seeking a position that offers both professional growth and the reward of serving those who have served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) to support the National CARDIO-VET Network across Maine. This role offers a unique opportunity to provide high-quality diagnostic cardiac care within a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Medical Instrument Technician, you will be the frontline of cardiovascular diagnostics. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Performing transthoracic echocardiograms utilizing advanced 2D, 3D, and Doppler imaging techniques.
- Operating, cleaning, and maintaining complex cardiac ultrasound equipment to ensure patient safety.
- Coordinating with biomedical engineering teams for equipment repairs.
- Managing the flow of diagnostic images to reporting servers and maintaining accurate electronic patient files.
- Traveling to various "spoke" clinics within the network to provide patient care.
Role Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet several core criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Physical Standards: Ability to stand for 8-10 hours, lift 20 lbs of equipment, and transport patients on stretchers or wheelchairs.
- Travel: A valid driver's license and the willingness to travel up to 75% of the time.
- Security: Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
- Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Compensation
The position offers a competitive salary range of $80,024 to $104,037 per year. The VA provides regular salary increases and recognizes the value of professional experience when determining your specific starting step.
| Benefit Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $80,024 - $104,037 |
| Paid Time Off | Up to 50 days (Leave + Holidays) |
| Retirement | Pension + 5% 401k Match |
| Insurance | Comprehensive Health/Vision/Dental |
Benefits Summary
Beyond the salary, the VA provides an unmatched federal benefits package. Employees enjoy significant paid time off, including up to 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave. You are also eligible for the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which includes a pension and a Thrift Savings Plan (401k) with an agency matching component. Additionally, the VA offers paid parental leave and childcare subsidies for qualifying families.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume is a long-form document that explicitly details your past diagnostic experience. Use the USAJOBS portal to submit your application package, ensuring all requested documents—such as professional certifications (RCS/RDCS) and transcripts—are uploaded. Ensure your submission is completed before the November 19, 2026, deadline.
This position represents a chance to combine your technical sonography expertise with a meaningful mission. If you are ready to advance your career while supporting America's Veterans, apply today and begin your journey with the VA.
Why This Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) Job Matters
Advance your career in cardiovascular care while honoring those who served. Join the VHA National CARDIO-VET Network as an Echocardiography Technician and make a meaningful impact in a dynamic healthcare environment.
Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) to join the National CARDIO-VET Network. This role focuses on delivering high-quality diagnostic imaging, including 2D, 3D, and Doppler ultrasound procedures, to support our nation's Veterans. Serving as a critical member of a medical team across multiple Maine locations, the incumbent will balance technical expertise with compassionate patient care.
Requirements for Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography)
- U.S. Citizenship status.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must possess a valid driver's license for frequent regional travel.
- Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening.
- Must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period as a condition of employment.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to travel up to 75% of the time to designated clinic locations.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography)
- Professional certification as a Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) via Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).
- Professional certification as a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) via the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
- Proven experience administering ultrasound/echo enhancing agents.
- Deep understanding of JCAHO regulatory requirements.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.
- ✓Opportunities for professional career advancement and training.
💡 How to Apply Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) Job
- Create or log in to your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume or CV highlighting relevant diagnostic experience.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Attach all required supporting documentation, including licensure, transcripts, and any applicable DD-214 or SF-50 forms.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date of November 19, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and detailed in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your resume reflects both paid and volunteer experience related to cardiac sonography.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before submission.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the announcement closing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an in-person, field-based position requiring 75% travel to various clinical sites within the network.
What certification is required for this role?
While specific certification is not mandatory for basic entry, professional certification through CCI or ARDMS is highly preferred and strongly recommended for the GS-9 grade level.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.*
What is the work schedule?
*A: The standard schedule is 7:30 am - 4:00 pm, though this is a 24/7 hospital environment and may occasionally require flexibility.*
Can I use education in place of experience?
*A: Education may be substituted for experience only at the GS-4 and GS-5 levels, as per standard federal guidelines.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed 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." By working with the National CARDIO-VET Network, you become part of a larger healthcare ecosystem dedicated to "Whole Health," a model that prioritizes the personalized health goals of every Veteran. Working at the VA is not just a job; it is a commitment to excellence, compassion, and innovation in healthcare.