VISN 20 covers the four-state region of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. VISN 20 is comprised of 8 medical centers ranging in complexity from level 3 to level 1A and provides extensive primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary care in outpatient, inpatient, residential, and community settings.
Summary
VISN 20 covers the four-state region of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. VISN 20 is comprised of 8 medical centers ranging in complexity from level 3 to level 1A and provides extensive primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary care in outpatient, inpatient, residential, and community settings.
The duties of this position include but are not limited to the following:
As a Biomedical Engineer for the VA Northwest Health Network (VISN 20), the incumbent provides professional engineering and Network Risk Pool support to Healthcare Technology Management VISN Integrated Program (VIP). The VIP includes healthcare technology strategic planning, pre-purchase assessment, acquisition support, implementation coordination, equipment management, training, and ongoing technical support. The VIP encompasses the Network Risk Pool, intended to streamline biomedical services and maximize distribution of VIP resources as close as possible to the veterans' point of care.
The incumbent supports the VA's mission and VIP goals while operating in accordance with VISN policies, biomedical policies, and standards of professional service. He/She acts as a consultant and advisor on healthcare technology matters to medical centers, clinical service lines, and facility leadership within the VISN. He/she consults with and provides guidance to technical staff in Biomedical Engineering Programs within the VISN. The incumbent assists in the operation, maintenance, and management of the Network Risk Pool. The Biomedical Engineer works under minimal guidance from VISN 20 Chief Healthcare Technology Manager (CHTM) on matters pertaining to Biomedical Engineering technology management, program operations, and effective delivery of services.
The Biomedical Engineer supports healthcare technologies that extend across the VISN. As such, he/she will spend time physically at each location, as well as provide technical support virtually from his/her location within VISN 20.
The Biomedical Engineer is recognized as a technical expert and advisor on Biomedical Engineering for Medical staff, logistics staff, and facility leadership. He/she is responsible for providing assistance to the clinical staff in selection, deployment, and utilization of medical equipment. The Biomedical Engineer advises the VISN CHTM and management staff in the areas of high-cost and high- volume medical technology, the networking of medical technology, a wide array of general biomedical technology, and specific healthcare technology issues.
The Biomedical Engineer supports the Office of Healthcare Technology Management (10NA9) and the VA Modernization efforts in leading the Configuration and Technology Workgroups for all enterprise Biomedical Engineering programs for ECG Cardiology Management Systems, RTLS Cath Lab and Sterile Processing workflows, Physiological Monitoring and Vital Signs Monitors. He/she will serve as technical expert and provide counsel to VA facilities on readiness measures pertaining to medical system standardization and configuration. The Biomedical Engineer also supports the Office of Healthcare Technology Management (10NA9) in the HTM Scope of Services workgroup with ensuring that the enterprise configuration aligns with the enterprise HTM Scope of Services.
The Biomedical Engineer leads technology assessment of medical equipment systems by working collaboratively with medical staff to evaluate market offerings, determine VISN requirements, design system configurations, and develop specifications. These technology assessments are often extremely complex and stakeholder intensive. He/she works collaboratively with the Contracting staff to procure medical equipment that best meets clinical needs on balance with competitive processes and value considerations. The Biomedical Engineer coordinates implementation of medical technology including assessing site preparation requirements, managing project activities and timelines, monitoring installations, and facilitating training of equipment operators and maintainers. While the Biomedical Engineer primarily supports healthcare technology across the VISN, he/she occasionally supports local facility initiatives.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 0730-1600 or 0800-1630 Telework: Not applicable, this is a remote position. Virtual: Yes Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.
Qualifications
Basic Requirements: a. Citizenship.[Be] a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with [VA Handbook 5005, Part II,] chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3.g.)
b. Education and/or Experience. The individual must meet either item (1) or (2) below to meet this requirement:
(1) Bachelor's Degree or Higher in Engineering. To be creditable, the curriculum must be from a school of engineering with at least one curriculum accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), as a professional engineering curriculum. Examples of acceptable engineering degrees include: Biomedical Engineering, Clinical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biomechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Biochemical Engineering. Titles may vary from educational institutions and change over time.
OR, (2) Certification as a Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) and a bachelor's degree not listed in item 3.b.(1) above.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Grade Determinations:
Biomedical Engineer (Clinical), GS-14
(a) Experience. Completion of at least [one] year of experience equivalent to the next lower level, and must fully meet the KSAs at that level.
(b) Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities[. In addition to the experience above, the biomedical engineer (clinical) must demonstrate all of the following KSAs. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*):]
i. [*][Ability to apply advanced knowledge of relevant codes, regulations, guidelines, and standards associated with biomedical engineering to support the needs of multiple facilities.
ii. Ability to effectively convey highly technical information to] a wide variety of individuals, including technical and professional clinical staff, and senior level managers at the facility, VISN and/or national level.
iii. *Ability to manage a recall and safety alert program for medical devices, including medical device incident investigations to assure compliance with patient safety goals, SMDA, and [TJC requirements for multiple facilities.]
iv. [ ] Ability to apply advanced knowledge of principles, theories, concepts, and practices of biomedical engineering. This would include the ability to keep abreast of changes in technology and utilize the information gained in the solution of biomedical engineering problems to meet operational needs of multiple facilities.
v. *Ability to directly support the most complex and specialized clinical technology including service, system administration, training, and quality assurance for multiple facilities.
vi. [*Ability to work collaboratively with other disciplines, senior management, VHA Central Office, and VISN staff.
vii. Ability to develop and implement healthcare technology management policies that are consistent with organizational objectives. Scope of organization spans from multiple facilities to national. (c) Assignment.
For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. At this level, employees are non-supervisory and are typically at the VISN or National Program Offices. At the VISN level, employees must have notable ongoing responsibilities, as assigned by the VISN and/or Healthcare Technology Management Program Office. Major duties must include at least four of the following major responsibilities:
i. Supports and advances patient care by applying engineering and managerial skills to healthcare technology across the VISN, or nationally.
ii. Assists and advises facilities in the implementation of an equipment management program that meets current TJC and NFPA requirements. Evaluates other biomedical engineering programs in the VISN or the national program office.iii. Assures provision of a continuing education program for professional staff addressing the principles and application of healthcare technology management. This includes a curriculum that addresses the safe and effective management of medical equipment and/or technology. Provides continuing education on behalf of the VISN and/or the national program office.
iv. Provides support and oversight for a recall and safety alert program for medical devices in the VISN, or for the national program office, including medical device incident investigations, to ensure compliance with patient safety goals, SMDA, and TJC requirements. Conducts medical equipment investigations for the VISN or the national program office.v. Serves as a subject matter expert advisor to senior VISN or national clinical and leadership staff on medical technology crossing multiple clinical disciplines, including existing and emerging technology, addressing viability, long-term suitability, compatibility, and/or safety.vi. Conducts and/or supports capital asset and infrastructure planning of medical technology found in a hospital, spanning initial concept, installation, and effective implementation of complex medical equipment.
vii. Implementation of complex medical technology. Participates in capital asset planning at the VISN and/or national level. Analyzes organizational and operational problems and develops timely and economical solutions to meet facility, VISN, and/or national needs.
viii. Serves as an institutional expert supporting the most complex and specialized clinical technology, including service, system administration, training, sustainment, and quality assurance across multiple facilities.
ix. Develops national policy for the Healthcare Technology Management Program Office. Serves as a senior technology advisor to assist the Healthcare Technology Management Program Office with technology and program management.
References: VA Handbook 5005/104 March 25, 2019 PART II APPENDIX G38
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-14.
Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
Additional information
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
Professional Certification
Resume
Transcript
RESUME: must be SPECIFIC AS TO DATES WORKED, please use month/day/year whenever possible; please indicate how many hours worked per week for each position. Assumptions will NOT be made in your favor if your resume is vague regarding dates and hours worked.
If your RESUME is vague as to dates, assumptions will NOT be made in your favor (ex: listing only years, 2012-2013, will give you credit for TWO DAYS worked: 12/31/12-1/1/13).
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
Cover Letter
OF-306
VA Application 10-2850c
Performance Appraisal
Professional Certification
Resume
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 12/22/2023 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12236921.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
VA Portland Health Care System
3710 Southwest US Veterans Hospital Road
Portland, OR 97239
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
Professional Certification
Resume
Transcript
RESUME: must be SPECIFIC AS TO DATES WORKED, please use month/day/year whenever possible; please indicate how many hours worked per week for each position. Assumptions will NOT be made in your favor if your resume is vague regarding dates and hours worked.
If your RESUME is vague as to dates, assumptions will NOT be made in your favor (ex: listing only years, 2012-2013, will give you credit for TWO DAYS worked: 12/31/12-1/1/13).
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
Cover Letter
OF-306
VA Application 10-2850c
Performance Appraisal
Professional Certification
Resume
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 12/22/2023 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12236921.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
VA Portland Health Care System
3710 Southwest US Veterans Hospital Road
Portland, OR 97239
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
