Job Summary

A Medical Instrument Technician (Anesthesia) reports to the Anesthesiology Service Chief (clinical) and the Administrative Officer (AO) for Anesthesiology (administrative and programmatic), who determines and defines the overall work goals. Medical Instrument Technicians (Anesthesia Technicians) perform logistical and technical support to anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists.

Job Description

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. English Language Proficiency: Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English. No person will be appointed under authority of 38 U.S.C. chapter 73 or 74, to serve in a direct patient-care capacity in VHA who is not proficient in written and spoken English. Licensure or Certification: Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation; however, it is strongly desirable at GS-6 or above as evidence of possession of the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities. 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: In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates. GS-8: Experience: At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics related to the duties of the positions to be filled. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of the correct use of invasive patient monitoring equipment specific to anesthesiology. Knowledge of basic electrocardiography (EKG). Skill and ability to troubleshoot equipment, often while the patient is anesthetized. Skill and ability to maintain sterility during procedures. Knowledge and understanding of arterial pressure line wave forms including the ability to recognize and distinguish normal from abnormal, artifact from abnormality, and forewarn the physician or anesthetist of an impending life-threatening situation. Knowledge of anesthesiology supplies, medications, and equipment appropriate to more difficult anesthetic procedures such as those found in inpatient settings with more acutely ill patients. Certification: No certification is required; however, it is desirable that employees at this level have Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification. Preferred Experience: Experience troubleshooting anesthesia machines, including routine checks and advanced fault identification. Skilled in difficult intubation support and airway management, working collaboratively with anesthesia providers. Experience assisting with cardiac anesthesia procedures and invasive line placement (arterial, central, and other hemodynamic monitoring lines). Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is 8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is a GS8. Physical Requirements: The incumbent must be able to perform all essential tasks associated with the role without restriction. This position necessitates high levels of visual and auditory acuity to ensure the delivery of safe and effective anesthesia care. It requires extensive physical activity, including standing, walking, stooping, bending, reaching, lifting, and turning. The role involves repositioning patients, assisting in transferring patients to and from wheelchairs/stretchers, and transporting them to different departments or facilities. Additionally, the position may require fine motor skills to manipulate intricate instrumentation and equipment related to anesthesia procedures.