Health Tech (Hearing Instrument Specialist)

Company: usagov
Location: Loveland
Posted on: May 26, 2023

Job Description:

Summary
This position is located within the Cheyenne VA Health Care System with duty location in the Northern Colorado VA Outpatient Clinic campus in Loveland Colorado. The duties are carried out in the Audiology and Speech Pathology Section at the Outpatient Clinic in support of clinical programs in Audiology services.
This job is open to

• Federal employees - Competitive service
  Current or former competitive service federal employees.
• Federal employees - Excepted service
  Current excepted service federal employees.
• Internal to an agency
  Current federal employees of this agency.
• The public
  U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S. Clarification from the agency
  U.S. Citizens - the public
  Videos
  Duties
  Primary Functional Duties of The Position Include:
  • Provide direct patient care in support of diagnostic and treatment procedures.
  • Provide administrative support in patient charting and patient education.
  • Professionally and respectfully greet and escort patients; provide instruction and counseling on hearing loss or hearing aids for individuals and in group settings.
  • Conduct hearing pass/fail screenings without interpretation; non-diagnostic otoscopy; cerumen management; take earmold impressions; provide hearing aid troubleshooting and repair.
  • Perform listening checks on hearing aids; electroacoustic analysis of devices; pair hearing aids and accessories via Bluetooth technology; program previously stored settings into hearing aids; activate remote controls.
  • Ensure timely and accurate documentation of all interactions with use of the electronic medical record and the computerized tracking and ordering functions via ROES.
  • Manage office supplies; track loaner stock hearing aid inventory; complete electronic ordering, verify orders upon arrival to ensure components are present and working correctly.
  • Schedule appointments; package and mail hearing aids and accessories; process ROES transactions (e.g. certify and issue hearing aids, enter orders and repairs).
  • Respond to routine inquiries from patients, determine nature of hearing aid inquiry and respond to administrative questions.
  • Demonstrate respectful and articulate communication skills to assist a diverse patient population of various ages and with various physical limitations.
  • Implement VA approved infection control protocol and established patient safety procedures while working with clinical audiology supplies.
  • Maintain clean, disinfected instrumentation, equipment, and work surfaces in the audiology clinic.
  • Reprocess reusable medical equipment based on facility policy according to Medical Center infection control procedures and reusable medical equipment policies.
  • Assist in set up and delivery of face-to-face and telehealth visits; prepare the equipment for patient evaluation. Work Schedule: Administrative and Clinic hours 8 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. Monday - Friday.
    Telework: Not available.
    Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
    Functional Statement #: 442-55560-O; 442-55561-O.
    Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized.
    Financial Disclosure Report: Not required.
    Requirements
    Conditions of Employment
    • You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
    • 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.
    • Physical Evaluation is required.
    • 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
      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: Health Technician (HIS) candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. - 7403(f). Experience and Education:
        (1) Experience: Completion of the Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program for Hearing Aid Specialists;
        OR
        (2) Education: Successful completion of two academic years above high school that includes coursework related to the field: hearing science, human anatomy and physiology, hearing instrument science, gerontology, psychology or other general healthcare areas.
        NOTE: There is no combination of education and experience which can be substituted for the basic requirements.
        Licensure or Registration: Individuals must hold a full, current and unrestricted license or registration to practice as a HIS in a state, territory, commonwealth or the District of Columbia.
        Board Certification: Individuals must hold active board certification from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS).
        Exception for Non-Board Certified Health Technician (HIS):
        (a) Non-board certified applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for appointment, may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate Health Technician (HIS) under the authority of 38 U.S.C. - 7405(c)(2)(B).
        (b) Non-board certified individuals shall only provide care under the supervision of a licensed audiologist.
        (c) Non-board certified individuals may only be appointed at the entry level and may not be promoted/converted until board certification is obtained.
        (d) Temporary appointments of non-board certified Health Technician (HIS) may not be extended beyond two years or converted to a new temporary appointment.
        Grade Determinations Health Technician GS-05:
        (1) Experience: None beyond the basic requirements as stated above.
        (2) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities - In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
        (a) Knowledge of basic anatomy of the head and neck.
        (b) Knowledge of basic infection control procedures and guidelines.
        (c) Skill in using basic computer software to complete tasks such as using email, creating spreadsheets and word processing.
        (d) Ability to communicate orally and in writing.
        (e) Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
        (f) Ability to maintain stock and supply level inventories.
        Grade Determinations Health Technician GS-06:
        (1) Experience: One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade.
        (2) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities - In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
        (a) Knowledge of normal and abnormal ear anatomy.
        (b) Knowledge of hearing aids, hearing assistive technology, hearing aid manufacturers and manufacturer software.
        (c) Skill in documenting patient procedures and patient devices.
        (d) Skill in providing patient education for hearing aid use, to include assisting patient with hearing aid insertion, removal and hygiene (cleaning and disinfection).
        (e) Ability to provide patient education and training regarding hearing loss and communication strategies for various listening situations.
        (f) Ability to solve problems or make decisions regarding hearing aids, hearing assistive technology and patient care that is consistent with the documented and co-signed plan of care under the supervision of an audiologist.
        (g) Ability to prepare patient, equipment, and/or environment for audiology procedures.
        (h) Ability to provide triage of patient telephone calls or audiology requests.
        Preferred Experience: Experience working with Veterans in a clinical setting.
        References: VA Handbook 5005-Part II, Appendix G73.
        The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-06. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-06.
        Physical Requirements: The work requires some physical exertion such as prolonged periods of sitting, bending, reaching, crouching, stooping, stretching and lifting moderately heavy items. Must be able to push a patient in a wheelchair and assist in transferring from wheelchair to exam chair.
        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).
        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.
        • Benefits
          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.
          Review our 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, r--sum--, 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.
          • Benefits
            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.
            Review our 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.
          • Required Documents
            As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.
            To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
            
            • Resume VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: About VA Form 10-2850C - Veterans Affairs.
              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
              • DD-214/ Statement of Service
              • Disability Letter (Schedule A)
              • Disability Letter (VA)
              • Other (1)
              • Proof of Marriage Status
              • Resume
              • Separation Notice (RIF)
              • SF-15
              • 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:
                Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
                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.
              • How to Apply
                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 05/31/2023 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11951429.
                
                • 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.
                  Agency contact information
                  Robbin Duuck
                  Phone
                  608-632-9575
                  Email
                  robbin.duuck@va.gov
                  Address
                  Cheyenne VA Medical Center 2360 East Pershing Boulevard Cheyenne, WY 82001 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.
                  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
                  • Reasonable accommodation policy
                  • Financial suitability
                  • Selective Service
                  • New employee probationary period
                  • Signature and false statements
                  • Privacy Act
                  • Social security number request Required Documents
                    To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
                    • Resume VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: About VA Form 10-2850C - Veterans Affairs.
                      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
                      • DD-214/ Statement of Service
                      • Disability Letter (Schedule A)
                      • Disability Letter (VA)
                      • Other (1)
                      • Proof of Marriage Status
                      • Resume
                      • Separation Notice (RIF)
                      • SF-15
                      • 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:
                        Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Educ...

Keywords: usagov, Loveland , Health Tech (Hearing Instrument Specialist), Healthcare , Loveland, Colorado