Launch Your Career as a Health Technician (Surgical) at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth
Are you a skilled surgical professional looking for a meaningful career change? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring a Health Technician (Surgical) to join the team at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. This is an exceptional opportunity to utilize your technical expertise in a high-stakes medical environment dedicated to supporting our nation's service members, retirees, and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As a Health Technician (Surgical), you will be the backbone of the operating room environment. Your daily duties will include:
- Assisting in the development and execution of pre-operative nursing care plans.
- Ensuring the operating room is meticulously prepared for incoming procedures.
- Managing, organizing, and handing surgical instruments to surgeons during critical operations.
- Maintaining inventory of supplies and replenishing equipment as needed.
- Ensuring strict adherence to sanitation and sterilization standards post-surgery.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-07 position, applicants must meet strict criteria:
- Experience: You must have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level or equivalent.
- Documentation: A valid, job-related license or certification must be submitted with your application.
- Resume Guidelines: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Clearance: Must be able to pass a Secret security clearance and drug test.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $51,210 to $66,574 per year. Highly qualified candidates may be eligible for recruitment incentives or advanced leave accrual.
Comparison: Why Choose Federal Healthcare?
| Feature | Private Sector | Federal (DHA) |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Varies by Employer | Comprehensive Federal Package |
| Job Stability | Variable | High (Government Service) |
| Mission | Patient-focused | Mission & Patient-focused |
| Salary | Market-driven | GS Scale (Locality Pay) |
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Use plain language and ensure your resume is under two pages.
- Highlight Hours: Specify your hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Attach Documents: Never forget your license or certification—missing these documents will lead to automatic disqualification.
Joining the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health and readiness of our military community. With a clear path to professional growth and a stable federal career, now is the time to apply. Ensure your application package is accurate, complete, and submitted by November 20, 2026.
Why This Health Technician (Surgical) Job Matters
Launch your healthcare career at a world-class facility—join the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth team as a Health Technician (Surgical) and make a direct impact on mission readiness.
Health Technician (Surgical) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Health Technician (Surgical) to serve at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. This role is vital to the surgical team, ensuring that operating rooms are prepared, equipment is sterilized, and patients receive the high-quality care they deserve. This position is open to the public and offers a significant opportunity to serve those who defend our nation.
Requirements for Health Technician (Surgical)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Must submit a copy of all required professional licenses or certifications.
- Must comply with Selective Service registration requirements if applicable.
- Resume must be two pages or less to be considered.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Surgical)
- Prior experience in an operating room environment.
- Demonstrated proficiency in instrument sterilization and surgical supply management.
- Strong communication skills within a fast-paced medical team.
- Excellent attention to detail regarding sterile field protocols.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
- âś“Potential for recruitment incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- âś“Advanced leave accrual opportunities.
- âś“Opportunities for professional growth within the Defense Health Agency.
- âś“Comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Health Technician (Surgical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician (Surgical) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, detailing your relevant surgical experience.
- Complete the required online questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation, including license/certification copies.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 20, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any document exceeding the two-page limit will be disqualified.
- Clearly outline your hours worked per week for each job entry to help HR verify your specialized experience.
- Use plain, professional language and avoid obscure acronyms.
- Double-check that your license or certification is attached; missing this will result in an immediate ineligible rating.
- Monitor your USAJOBS dashboard frequently to track the status of your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?
No. This specific position requires applicants to meet the experience requirements through work history alone. Education cannot be substituted for the specialized experience.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance and is classified as a Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk role.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Per the job announcement, resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration, and your application will not be processed.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is a joint, integrated combat support agency that enables the military medical services to provide a medically ready force. Working within the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, you will be part of a robust healthcare delivery system that provides world-class care across the globe. The DHA values professionalism, dedication, and clinical excellence.