Health Technician
Summary The incumbent serves as a Health Technician (Processing) in the Roseburg VA Healthcare System Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Services.
The incumbent is responsible for performing multiple duties in the central accessioning and specimen processing area.
These complex duties include reference laboratory specimen processing, clerical functions, patient testing, and outpatient phlebotomy.
Each of these functions is a percentage of his/her total time on duty.
Responsibilities Major duties include but are not limited to; Specimen Receipt and Processing - The incumbent is responsible for receiving and preparing requests for testing and specimens into the clinical laboratory and verifies the accuracy and completeness of the request.
Identifies unusual conditions and discrepancies, which may cause erroneous test results.
Accessions all requests into the hospital computer system.
Uses order entry by multipurpose ordering option and other laboratory computer options such as accessioning by ward order entry.
Incumbent follows procedures for processing biological specimens, understands sample requirements for tests and clearly communicates those requirements.
S/he separates and routes the specimens to the specific laboratory section that performs the testing.
S/he assists healthcare personnel (MT/MLS/CLS) who deliver specimens by directing them to place the specimens in the proper location based on the type of testing and the laboratory section.
The incumbent recognizes emergency testing situations and takes necessary action to direct the specimens to the proper location.
S/he notifies the laboratory staff of the need for emergency testing.
Demonstrated ability to cope with stressful situations and troubleshooting to deal with problem samples.
Must have the ability to follow detailed instructions to operate various types of laboratory equipment, such as centrifuges, refrigerators, freezers, and eyewash stations.
Performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment used.
Reference Laboratory Specimen Processing - The incumbent receives all specimens that are sent to commercial reference laboratories for testing.
The volume of testing sent to the commercial reference laboratories is approximately 150-200 specimens per day.
The individual must be knowledgeable about the specimen requirement for each reference laboratory test and the test ordering procedures for each of the reference laboratories.
S/he verifies proper patient preparation, specimen collection, and specimen transport requirements for all reference laboratory tests.
The incumbent identifies unusual conditions and discrepancies that may cause erroneous test results.
S/he makes sound decisions independently and takes appropriate action to correct and solve problems pertaining to reference laboratory tests.
Community Based Outpatient Clinics Test Ordering Review - The Roseburg VA Healthcare System provides testing services for two Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOCs) located in southwestern Oregon, and one Healthcare Center in western Oregon.
These clinics collect specimens for laboratory testing and transport them to the Roseburg VA laboratory for testing.
The specimens from the CBOCs arrive daily, and most of the testing is performed on the first shift in the Core Laboratory.
The incumbent is responsible for reviewing the shipping manifests from each CBOC to ensure all specimens listed on the shopping manifest are accounted for.
If any discrepancies are found, incumbent is required to follow up as necessary.
Patient Care Testing Duties - The incumbent is responsible for performing a limited amount of patient testing.
The individual is required to prepare the specimen or patient for testing, prepare reagents (if necessary), and add to the appropriate instrumentation.
Exposure to chemicals exists, so safety protocols must be followed.
Clerical Duties - The individual answers incoming calls for Roseburg VA HCS Pathology & Laboratory Services quickly finding and relaying accurate information, performs disposition of add-on orders, functions as a resource person and troubleshooter, assists clinical personnel in executing laboratory information system order entry and results options, prepares referral specimens for shipment, contacts physicians for clarification of request and justification of need for send-out testing, packages and ships containers following regulatory guidelines, maintains shipping certification, assists the laboratory in functions such as checking temperatures and other duties as needed.
Phlebotomy Duties - The incumbent draws blood from outpatients for requested laboratory testing.
This includes using special drawing techniques, assuring that proper tubes are used, and the correct amount of blood is drawn.
S/he verifies the patient as the individual denotes on the request and labels all tubes with two unique identifiers including patient name, social security number, DOD ID number, date, and time to insure proper identification.
S/he initials all tubes drawn.
Work Schedule:
7:
30a.
m.
to 5:
30p.
m.
; Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday (Compressed schedule) Telework:
This is not a telework position.
Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Position Description Title/PD#:
Health Technician/PD30652A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not Authorized Critical Skills Incentive (CSI):
Not Approved Permanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required Requirements Conditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 You may be required to serve a probationary period Designated and/or random drug testing may be required 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 To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement, 05/02/2024.
In accordance with 38 U.
S.
C.
7402(d), no person shall serve in direct patient care positions unless they are proficient in basic written and spoken English.
Basic Requirement:
All applicants must meet the following requirement; Positions in this series range widely in type and include support duties to medical or health personnel such as audiologists, speech pathologists, medical officers, and optometrists.
Therefore, technician experience is experience that required application of the knowledge, methods, and techniques of the position to be filled.
In addition to meeting the Basic Requirement, applicants must also meet the grade specific requirements listed below:
You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below:
Specialized
Experience:
You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade GS-05 in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization.
Examples of specialized experience would typically include, but are not limited to:
Technical skill to perform patient testing and verify accuracy of test results; knowledge and skills in phlebotomy techniques, procedures, and other specimen collection procedures; observe and report physical or mental changes in a patient; knowledge of infection control, safety, and universal precaution procedures; Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations, laboratory accrediting and regulatory requirements sufficient to understand procedures in the areas of safety, phlebotomy, specimen collection, accessioning, and processing.
NOTE:
Experience must be fully documented on your resume and must include job title, duties, month and year start/end dates AND hours worked per week.
Physical Requirements:
Work is performed in a laboratory atmosphere and requires regular and physical exertion such as walking, bending, recurrent standing, and moderate lifting.
The work requires specific physical characteristics and abilities and dexterity needed to perform intricate analytical and technical procedures.
Entering patient information, test orders, and data in a computer may result in physical problems form the effects of repetitive motion and eyestrain.
Laboratory instrumentation makes constant noises which could lead to hearing loss over long periods of exposure.
The position may also require assisting geriatric and/or disabled patients.
The incumbent must have normal color vision.
Work Environment:
The work involves moderate risks or discomfort associated with working in a clinical laboratory with regular and recurring exposure to hazards such as infectious materials, chemicals, electrical appliances, and loud noises.
The incumbent takes special safety precautions and must use protective clothing and devises such as gloves, face shields, eye protector, and safety shields in accordance with OSHA guidelines.
The incumbent's dress and personal appearance should reflect the professional image of a healthcare worker.
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.
Education There is no educational substitution for the GS-06 level.
Additional Information The following will be communicated to applicants for VA employment in a testing designated position and will also be included in all VA vacancy announcements for such positions:
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drugs use prior to appointment.
Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Participation in the seasonal influenza program is 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.
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.
The Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) and Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provide eligible displaced VA competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies.
To be well-qualified, applicants must possess experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors if applicable, and must be proficient in most of the requirements of the job.
Information about ICTAP and CTAP eligibility is on OPM's Career Transition Resources website which can be found at https:
//www.
opm.
gov/.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
.
Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
The incumbent is responsible for performing multiple duties in the central accessioning and specimen processing area.
These complex duties include reference laboratory specimen processing, clerical functions, patient testing, and outpatient phlebotomy.
Each of these functions is a percentage of his/her total time on duty.
Responsibilities Major duties include but are not limited to; Specimen Receipt and Processing - The incumbent is responsible for receiving and preparing requests for testing and specimens into the clinical laboratory and verifies the accuracy and completeness of the request.
Identifies unusual conditions and discrepancies, which may cause erroneous test results.
Accessions all requests into the hospital computer system.
Uses order entry by multipurpose ordering option and other laboratory computer options such as accessioning by ward order entry.
Incumbent follows procedures for processing biological specimens, understands sample requirements for tests and clearly communicates those requirements.
S/he separates and routes the specimens to the specific laboratory section that performs the testing.
S/he assists healthcare personnel (MT/MLS/CLS) who deliver specimens by directing them to place the specimens in the proper location based on the type of testing and the laboratory section.
The incumbent recognizes emergency testing situations and takes necessary action to direct the specimens to the proper location.
S/he notifies the laboratory staff of the need for emergency testing.
Demonstrated ability to cope with stressful situations and troubleshooting to deal with problem samples.
Must have the ability to follow detailed instructions to operate various types of laboratory equipment, such as centrifuges, refrigerators, freezers, and eyewash stations.
Performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment used.
Reference Laboratory Specimen Processing - The incumbent receives all specimens that are sent to commercial reference laboratories for testing.
The volume of testing sent to the commercial reference laboratories is approximately 150-200 specimens per day.
The individual must be knowledgeable about the specimen requirement for each reference laboratory test and the test ordering procedures for each of the reference laboratories.
S/he verifies proper patient preparation, specimen collection, and specimen transport requirements for all reference laboratory tests.
The incumbent identifies unusual conditions and discrepancies that may cause erroneous test results.
S/he makes sound decisions independently and takes appropriate action to correct and solve problems pertaining to reference laboratory tests.
Community Based Outpatient Clinics Test Ordering Review - The Roseburg VA Healthcare System provides testing services for two Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOCs) located in southwestern Oregon, and one Healthcare Center in western Oregon.
These clinics collect specimens for laboratory testing and transport them to the Roseburg VA laboratory for testing.
The specimens from the CBOCs arrive daily, and most of the testing is performed on the first shift in the Core Laboratory.
The incumbent is responsible for reviewing the shipping manifests from each CBOC to ensure all specimens listed on the shopping manifest are accounted for.
If any discrepancies are found, incumbent is required to follow up as necessary.
Patient Care Testing Duties - The incumbent is responsible for performing a limited amount of patient testing.
The individual is required to prepare the specimen or patient for testing, prepare reagents (if necessary), and add to the appropriate instrumentation.
Exposure to chemicals exists, so safety protocols must be followed.
Clerical Duties - The individual answers incoming calls for Roseburg VA HCS Pathology & Laboratory Services quickly finding and relaying accurate information, performs disposition of add-on orders, functions as a resource person and troubleshooter, assists clinical personnel in executing laboratory information system order entry and results options, prepares referral specimens for shipment, contacts physicians for clarification of request and justification of need for send-out testing, packages and ships containers following regulatory guidelines, maintains shipping certification, assists the laboratory in functions such as checking temperatures and other duties as needed.
Phlebotomy Duties - The incumbent draws blood from outpatients for requested laboratory testing.
This includes using special drawing techniques, assuring that proper tubes are used, and the correct amount of blood is drawn.
S/he verifies the patient as the individual denotes on the request and labels all tubes with two unique identifiers including patient name, social security number, DOD ID number, date, and time to insure proper identification.
S/he initials all tubes drawn.
Work Schedule:
7:
30a.
m.
to 5:
30p.
m.
; Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday (Compressed schedule) Telework:
This is not a telework position.
Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Position Description Title/PD#:
Health Technician/PD30652A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not Authorized Critical Skills Incentive (CSI):
Not Approved Permanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required Requirements Conditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 You may be required to serve a probationary period Designated and/or random drug testing may be required 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 To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement, 05/02/2024.
In accordance with 38 U.
S.
C.
7402(d), no person shall serve in direct patient care positions unless they are proficient in basic written and spoken English.
Basic Requirement:
All applicants must meet the following requirement; Positions in this series range widely in type and include support duties to medical or health personnel such as audiologists, speech pathologists, medical officers, and optometrists.
Therefore, technician experience is experience that required application of the knowledge, methods, and techniques of the position to be filled.
In addition to meeting the Basic Requirement, applicants must also meet the grade specific requirements listed below:
You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below:
Specialized
Experience:
You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade GS-05 in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization.
Examples of specialized experience would typically include, but are not limited to:
Technical skill to perform patient testing and verify accuracy of test results; knowledge and skills in phlebotomy techniques, procedures, and other specimen collection procedures; observe and report physical or mental changes in a patient; knowledge of infection control, safety, and universal precaution procedures; Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations, laboratory accrediting and regulatory requirements sufficient to understand procedures in the areas of safety, phlebotomy, specimen collection, accessioning, and processing.
NOTE:
Experience must be fully documented on your resume and must include job title, duties, month and year start/end dates AND hours worked per week.
Physical Requirements:
Work is performed in a laboratory atmosphere and requires regular and physical exertion such as walking, bending, recurrent standing, and moderate lifting.
The work requires specific physical characteristics and abilities and dexterity needed to perform intricate analytical and technical procedures.
Entering patient information, test orders, and data in a computer may result in physical problems form the effects of repetitive motion and eyestrain.
Laboratory instrumentation makes constant noises which could lead to hearing loss over long periods of exposure.
The position may also require assisting geriatric and/or disabled patients.
The incumbent must have normal color vision.
Work Environment:
The work involves moderate risks or discomfort associated with working in a clinical laboratory with regular and recurring exposure to hazards such as infectious materials, chemicals, electrical appliances, and loud noises.
The incumbent takes special safety precautions and must use protective clothing and devises such as gloves, face shields, eye protector, and safety shields in accordance with OSHA guidelines.
The incumbent's dress and personal appearance should reflect the professional image of a healthcare worker.
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.
Education There is no educational substitution for the GS-06 level.
Additional Information The following will be communicated to applicants for VA employment in a testing designated position and will also be included in all VA vacancy announcements for such positions:
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drugs use prior to appointment.
Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Participation in the seasonal influenza program is 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.
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.
The Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) and Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provide eligible displaced VA competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies.
To be well-qualified, applicants must possess experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors if applicable, and must be proficient in most of the requirements of the job.
Information about ICTAP and CTAP eligibility is on OPM's Career Transition Resources website which can be found at https:
//www.
opm.
gov/.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
.
Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
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