Job Description
Qualifications
You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1+5+
Must be proficient in written and spoken English
You may be required to serve a probationary period
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
Must pass pre-employment physical examination
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 201+ (COVID-1+) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details
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
United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy
Six months of experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work; or
One year above high school that included at least 6 semester hours in health care related courses such as sterile processing, nursing assistant, hospital corpsman, and operating room and surgical technician courses or other courses related to the position; or
Experience/Education Combination
Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable
English Language Proficiency
MSTs must be proficient in spoken and written English
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)
To be creditable, education completed outside the U.S. must have been submitted to a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education must have been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. programs
Grade Determinations:(1) GS-03 (Entry Level)
None beyond the basic requirements
MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision
Six months experience as a MST, operating room or surgical technician or other position that demonstrated knowledge of sterile processing in a clinical setting; or
Two years of education above high school that included at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation
NOTE: Successful completion of a course for medical technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or nursing assistants obtained in a training program given by the Armed Forces, the U.S. Maritime Service, or hospitals under close medical and professional supervision, may be substituted on a month-for-month basis for up to 6 months of experience
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the KSAs below:
Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination
Basic knowledge of medical terminology in order to assemble specialty operating room/clinic instrument sets
Basic knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment
Ability to communicate both orally and in writing
(3) GS-05 (Developmental Level)
One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level; or
Four academic years above high school leading to a Bachelor's degree with at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation or a Bachelor's degree
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
Basic knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings
Basic knowledge of event-related packaging in regards to sterility
Knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment
One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
Knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings
Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination
Working knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, medical conditions and procedures
Knowledge of sterility principles in regards to instrumentation
Ability to read and interpret written instructions and procedures
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
Benefits
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
Help 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
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent
Responsibilities
The Medical Supply Technician (MST) is assigned to the Sterile Processing Service (SPS)
Incumbent alternates between contaminated and sterile environments regularly throughout their tours
Provides sterilization, preparation, and decontamination support for the medical center
Determines appropriate method of sterilization and attaches chemical indicator tape to package
Removes gross contamination, pre-sterilizes biological contamination and decontaminates all reusable supplies and equipment
Provides inventory support and physically maintains stock at secondary inventory locations for SPS
Receives new supplies, checks deliveries for quality and quantity
Stores items in accordance with inventory system
Packages individual items or assembles items into sets or trays
Properly disassembles supply items avoiding damage or unnecessary wear
Utilizes Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer instructions during required troubleshooting
Visually examines items for damage, deterioration, or imperfections such as rust, pitting, and cracks
Uses seasoned judgment to ensure minimum potential for damage to equipment
Operates medical equipment to determine whether it operates correctly after reassembly
Assembles case carts for the operating room utilizing case sheets containing all necessary items
Determine the right personal protective equipment in all areas, and ensures compliance of staff with those requirements
Provides staff with appropriate education and information to minimize or eliminate exposure to contamination, chemicals, and potentially infectious diseases
Rotating shifts to include on-call, days, nights, weekends and holidays
Schedules are subject to change based on the needs of the health care system
This is a developmental level MST position
Performs segments of work pertaining to the decontamination, sterilization and inspection of reusable medical devices (RMD)
Completes segments of work pertaining to the assembly of basic sets and trays for use in the medical center
Operates equipment involved in sterilization processes
Prepares operating room case carts
MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision
Assignment: This is a developmental level MST position
Removes soil, blood, tissue fragments, body fluids, and other containments by wiping, soaking, rinsing, and scrubbing
Inspects packages for indications of proper sterilization, assembles basic sets and trays used throughout the medical center including those used in the operating room
Prepares, loads, and operates sterilizers such as steam, Sterrad, Steris, ETO, and a high level disinfecting scope reprocessor; prepares operating room case carts daily using surgery schedule
MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members for more complex tasks and require direct supervision on new assignments
Receives contaminated critical and semi-critical RMD in the decontamination area and may receive noncritical equipment in the decontamination area as well
Disassembles the RMD and determines the correct cleaning method, such as but not limited to ultrasonic cleaners, mechanical washers, cart washers and chemical cleaning/decontamination agents, as determined by manufacturer instructions
Inspects, assembles and determines the correct method and packaging for sterilization such as but not limited to steam, Sterrad, Steris, ETO, and high level disinfecting scope reprocessors
Performs and documents daily operational checks and records for all sterilization equipment
Physical Requirements: The work is performed in various settings; office, preparation, decontamination, sterile storage areas, and in other services and departments
The incumbent may be required to work in areas that are hot, cold, drafty, and poorly lighted
The employee is subject to the possibility of falls, scrapes, cuts, bruises and other injuries from material handling equipment
The work requires standing, walking, bending, stooping stretching, and reaching during the entire workday, and frequent bending and lifting of supply packages (occasionally weighing as much as 50 pounds)
All SPS staff is required to wear Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) when assigned to all areas within SPS, operations as well as any of the clinical and operating room environments where appropriate PPE is deemed necessary while performing duties
Job description
Summary
The Medical Supply Technician (MST) is assigned to the Sterile Processing Service (SPS). The MST is involved in the reprocessing of Reusable Medical Devices (RMD) in support of all clinical services provided within the two divisions of VA Saint Louis, both in the surgical suites and outpatient areas.
These positions are located at John Cochran VA Hospital.
Learn more about this agency
Help
Duties
The Medical Supply Technician (MST) is assigned to the Sterile Processing Service (SPS). The MST is involved in the reprocessing of Reusable Medical Devices (RMD) in support of all clinical services provided within the two divisions, both in the surgical suites and outpatient areas. Incumbent alternates between contaminated and sterile environments regularly throughout their tours.
Duties include but are not limited to:
• Provides sterilization, preparation, and decontamination support for the medical center.
• Determines appropriate method of sterilization and attaches chemical indicator tape to package.
• Removes gross contamination, pre-sterilizes biological contamination and decontaminates all reusable supplies and equipment.
• Provides inventory support and physically maintains stock at secondary inventory locations for SPS.
• Receives new supplies, checks deliveries for quality and quantity.
• Stores items in accordance with inventory system.
• Packages individual items or assembles items into sets or trays.
• Properly disassembles supply items avoiding damage or unnecessary wear.
• Utilizes Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer instructions during required troubleshooting.
• Visually examines items for damage, deterioration, or imperfections such as rust, pitting, and cracks.
• Uses seasoned judgment to ensure minimum potential for damage to equipment.
• Operates medical equipment to determine whether it operates correctly after reassembly.
• Assembles case carts for the operating room utilizing case sheets containing all necessary items.
• Determine the right personal protective equipment in all areas, and ensures compliance of staff with those requirements.
• Provides staff with appropriate education and information to minimize or eliminate exposure to contamination, chemicals, and potentially infectious diseases.
Work Schedule: Full time. Rotating shifts to include on-call, days, nights, weekends and holidays. Schedules are subject to change based on the needs of the health care system.
Telework: Not authorized.
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized.
Help
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 12/31/1+5+.
• 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.
• Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
• 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 201+ (COVID-1+) 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.
• Experience and/or Education:
• Experience. Six months of experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work; or
• Education. One year above high school that included at least 6 semester hours in health care related courses such as sterile processing, nursing assistant, hospital corpsman, and operating room and surgical technician courses or other courses related to the position; or
• Experience/Education Combination. Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable.
• Certification. None.
• English Language Proficiency. MSTs must be proficient in spoken and written English.
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).Foreign Education. To be creditable, education completed outside the U.S. must have been submitted to a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education must have been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. programs.Grade Determinations:(1) GS-03 (Entry Level)
• Experience or Education. None beyond the basic requirements.
• Assignment. This is an entry level MST position. MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision.
(2) GS-04 (Developmental Level)
• Experience. Six months experience as a MST, operating room or surgical technician or other position that demonstrated knowledge of sterile processing in a clinical setting; or
• Education. Two years of education above high school that included at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation.
NOTE: Successful completion of a course for medical technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or nursing assistants obtained in a training program given by the Armed Forces, the U.S. Maritime Service, or hospitals under close medical and professional supervision, may be substituted on a month-for-month basis for up to 6 months of experience.
• Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the KSAs below:
• Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination.
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology in order to assemble specialty operating room/clinic instrument sets.
• Basic knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment.
• Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
• Assignment. This is a developmental level MST position. Performs segments of work pertaining to the decontamination, sterilization and inspection of reusable medical devices (RMD). Completes segments of work pertaining to the assembly of basic sets and trays for use in the medical center. Operates equipment involved in sterilization processes. Prepares operating room case carts. MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision.
(3) GS-05 (Developmental Level)
• Experience. One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level; or
• Education. Four academic years above high school leading to a Bachelor's degree with at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation or a Bachelor's degree.
• Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
• Basic knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings.
• Basic knowledge of event-related packaging in regards to sterility.
• Knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment.
• Assignment: This is a developmental level MST position. Removes soil, blood, tissue fragments, body fluids, and other containments by wiping, soaking, rinsing, and scrubbing. Inspects packages for indications of proper sterilization, assembles basic sets and trays used throughout the medical center including those used in the operating room. Prepares, loads, and operates sterilizers such as steam, Sterrad, Steris, ETO, and a high level disinfecting scope reprocessor; prepares operating room case carts daily using surgery schedule. MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members for more complex tasks and require direct supervision on new assignments.
(4) GS-06 (Full Performance Level)
• Experience. One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
• Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
• Knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings.
• Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination.
• Working knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, medical conditions and procedures.
• Knowledge of sterility principles in regards to instrumentation.
• Ability to read and interpret written instructions and procedures.
• Assignment. This is the full performance level for the occupation. Receives contaminated critical and semi-critical RMD in the decontamination area and may receive noncritical equipment in the decontamination area as well. Disassembles the RMD and determines the correct cleaning method, such as but not limited to ultrasonic cleaners, mechanical washers, cart washers and chemical cleaning/decontamination agents, as determined by manufacturer instructions. Inspects, assembles and determines the correct method and packaging for sterilization such as but not limited to steam, Sterrad, Steris, ETO, and high level disinfecting scope reprocessors. Performs and documents daily operational checks and records for all sterilization equipment.
Physical Requirements: The work is performed in various settings; office, preparation, decontamination, sterile storage areas, and in other services and departments. The incumbent may be required to work in areas that are hot, cold, drafty, and poorly lighted. The employee is subject to the possibility of falls, scrapes, cuts, bruises and other injuries from material handling equipment. The work requires standing, walking, bending, stooping stretching, and reaching during the entire workday, and frequent bending and lifting of supply packages (occasionally weighing as much as 50 pounds). All SPS staff is required to wear Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) when assigned to all areas within SPS, operations as well as any of the clinical and operating room environments where appropriate PPE is deemed necessary while performing duties.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-6. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-3 to GS-6.
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: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
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.
During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
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 11+3.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-1+ 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-1+ 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.
Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.
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• Help 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.
VA St Louis Health Care System
1 Jefferson Barracks Drive
St. Louis, MO 63125
US
You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1+5+
Must be proficient in written and spoken English
You may be required to serve a probationary period
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
Must pass pre-employment physical examination
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 201+ (COVID-1+) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details
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
United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy
Six months of experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work; or
One year above high school that included at least 6 semester hours in health care related courses such as sterile processing, nursing assistant, hospital corpsman, and operating room and surgical technician courses or other courses related to the position; or
Experience/Education Combination
Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable
English Language Proficiency
MSTs must be proficient in spoken and written English
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)
To be creditable, education completed outside the U.S. must have been submitted to a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education must have been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. programs
Grade Determinations:(1) GS-03 (Entry Level)
None beyond the basic requirements
MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision
Six months experience as a MST, operating room or surgical technician or other position that demonstrated knowledge of sterile processing in a clinical setting; or
Two years of education above high school that included at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation
NOTE: Successful completion of a course for medical technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or nursing assistants obtained in a training program given by the Armed Forces, the U.S. Maritime Service, or hospitals under close medical and professional supervision, may be substituted on a month-for-month basis for up to 6 months of experience
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the KSAs below:
Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination
Basic knowledge of medical terminology in order to assemble specialty operating room/clinic instrument sets
Basic knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment
Ability to communicate both orally and in writing
(3) GS-05 (Developmental Level)
One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level; or
Four academic years above high school leading to a Bachelor's degree with at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation or a Bachelor's degree
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
Basic knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings
Basic knowledge of event-related packaging in regards to sterility
Knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment
One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
Knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings
Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination
Working knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, medical conditions and procedures
Knowledge of sterility principles in regards to instrumentation
Ability to read and interpret written instructions and procedures
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
Benefits
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
Help 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
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent
Responsibilities
The Medical Supply Technician (MST) is assigned to the Sterile Processing Service (SPS)
Incumbent alternates between contaminated and sterile environments regularly throughout their tours
Provides sterilization, preparation, and decontamination support for the medical center
Determines appropriate method of sterilization and attaches chemical indicator tape to package
Removes gross contamination, pre-sterilizes biological contamination and decontaminates all reusable supplies and equipment
Provides inventory support and physically maintains stock at secondary inventory locations for SPS
Receives new supplies, checks deliveries for quality and quantity
Stores items in accordance with inventory system
Packages individual items or assembles items into sets or trays
Properly disassembles supply items avoiding damage or unnecessary wear
Utilizes Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer instructions during required troubleshooting
Visually examines items for damage, deterioration, or imperfections such as rust, pitting, and cracks
Uses seasoned judgment to ensure minimum potential for damage to equipment
Operates medical equipment to determine whether it operates correctly after reassembly
Assembles case carts for the operating room utilizing case sheets containing all necessary items
Determine the right personal protective equipment in all areas, and ensures compliance of staff with those requirements
Provides staff with appropriate education and information to minimize or eliminate exposure to contamination, chemicals, and potentially infectious diseases
Rotating shifts to include on-call, days, nights, weekends and holidays
Schedules are subject to change based on the needs of the health care system
This is a developmental level MST position
Performs segments of work pertaining to the decontamination, sterilization and inspection of reusable medical devices (RMD)
Completes segments of work pertaining to the assembly of basic sets and trays for use in the medical center
Operates equipment involved in sterilization processes
Prepares operating room case carts
MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision
Assignment: This is a developmental level MST position
Removes soil, blood, tissue fragments, body fluids, and other containments by wiping, soaking, rinsing, and scrubbing
Inspects packages for indications of proper sterilization, assembles basic sets and trays used throughout the medical center including those used in the operating room
Prepares, loads, and operates sterilizers such as steam, Sterrad, Steris, ETO, and a high level disinfecting scope reprocessor; prepares operating room case carts daily using surgery schedule
MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members for more complex tasks and require direct supervision on new assignments
Receives contaminated critical and semi-critical RMD in the decontamination area and may receive noncritical equipment in the decontamination area as well
Disassembles the RMD and determines the correct cleaning method, such as but not limited to ultrasonic cleaners, mechanical washers, cart washers and chemical cleaning/decontamination agents, as determined by manufacturer instructions
Inspects, assembles and determines the correct method and packaging for sterilization such as but not limited to steam, Sterrad, Steris, ETO, and high level disinfecting scope reprocessors
Performs and documents daily operational checks and records for all sterilization equipment
Physical Requirements: The work is performed in various settings; office, preparation, decontamination, sterile storage areas, and in other services and departments
The incumbent may be required to work in areas that are hot, cold, drafty, and poorly lighted
The employee is subject to the possibility of falls, scrapes, cuts, bruises and other injuries from material handling equipment
The work requires standing, walking, bending, stooping stretching, and reaching during the entire workday, and frequent bending and lifting of supply packages (occasionally weighing as much as 50 pounds)
All SPS staff is required to wear Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) when assigned to all areas within SPS, operations as well as any of the clinical and operating room environments where appropriate PPE is deemed necessary while performing duties
Job description
Summary
The Medical Supply Technician (MST) is assigned to the Sterile Processing Service (SPS). The MST is involved in the reprocessing of Reusable Medical Devices (RMD) in support of all clinical services provided within the two divisions of VA Saint Louis, both in the surgical suites and outpatient areas.
These positions are located at John Cochran VA Hospital.
Learn more about this agency
Help
Duties
The Medical Supply Technician (MST) is assigned to the Sterile Processing Service (SPS). The MST is involved in the reprocessing of Reusable Medical Devices (RMD) in support of all clinical services provided within the two divisions, both in the surgical suites and outpatient areas. Incumbent alternates between contaminated and sterile environments regularly throughout their tours.
Duties include but are not limited to:
• Provides sterilization, preparation, and decontamination support for the medical center.
• Determines appropriate method of sterilization and attaches chemical indicator tape to package.
• Removes gross contamination, pre-sterilizes biological contamination and decontaminates all reusable supplies and equipment.
• Provides inventory support and physically maintains stock at secondary inventory locations for SPS.
• Receives new supplies, checks deliveries for quality and quantity.
• Stores items in accordance with inventory system.
• Packages individual items or assembles items into sets or trays.
• Properly disassembles supply items avoiding damage or unnecessary wear.
• Utilizes Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer instructions during required troubleshooting.
• Visually examines items for damage, deterioration, or imperfections such as rust, pitting, and cracks.
• Uses seasoned judgment to ensure minimum potential for damage to equipment.
• Operates medical equipment to determine whether it operates correctly after reassembly.
• Assembles case carts for the operating room utilizing case sheets containing all necessary items.
• Determine the right personal protective equipment in all areas, and ensures compliance of staff with those requirements.
• Provides staff with appropriate education and information to minimize or eliminate exposure to contamination, chemicals, and potentially infectious diseases.
Work Schedule: Full time. Rotating shifts to include on-call, days, nights, weekends and holidays. Schedules are subject to change based on the needs of the health care system.
Telework: Not authorized.
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized.
Help
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 12/31/1+5+.
• 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.
• Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
• 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 201+ (COVID-1+) 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.
• Experience and/or Education:
• Experience. Six months of experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work; or
• Education. One year above high school that included at least 6 semester hours in health care related courses such as sterile processing, nursing assistant, hospital corpsman, and operating room and surgical technician courses or other courses related to the position; or
• Experience/Education Combination. Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable.
• Certification. None.
• English Language Proficiency. MSTs must be proficient in spoken and written English.
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).Foreign Education. To be creditable, education completed outside the U.S. must have been submitted to a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education must have been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. programs.Grade Determinations:(1) GS-03 (Entry Level)
• Experience or Education. None beyond the basic requirements.
• Assignment. This is an entry level MST position. MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision.
(2) GS-04 (Developmental Level)
• Experience. Six months experience as a MST, operating room or surgical technician or other position that demonstrated knowledge of sterile processing in a clinical setting; or
• Education. Two years of education above high school that included at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation.
NOTE: Successful completion of a course for medical technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or nursing assistants obtained in a training program given by the Armed Forces, the U.S. Maritime Service, or hospitals under close medical and professional supervision, may be substituted on a month-for-month basis for up to 6 months of experience.
• Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the KSAs below:
• Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination.
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology in order to assemble specialty operating room/clinic instrument sets.
• Basic knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment.
• Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
• Assignment. This is a developmental level MST position. Performs segments of work pertaining to the decontamination, sterilization and inspection of reusable medical devices (RMD). Completes segments of work pertaining to the assembly of basic sets and trays for use in the medical center. Operates equipment involved in sterilization processes. Prepares operating room case carts. MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require frequent and direct supervision.
(3) GS-05 (Developmental Level)
• Experience. One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level; or
• Education. Four academic years above high school leading to a Bachelor's degree with at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation or a Bachelor's degree.
• Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
• Basic knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings.
• Basic knowledge of event-related packaging in regards to sterility.
• Knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment.
• Assignment: This is a developmental level MST position. Removes soil, blood, tissue fragments, body fluids, and other containments by wiping, soaking, rinsing, and scrubbing. Inspects packages for indications of proper sterilization, assembles basic sets and trays used throughout the medical center including those used in the operating room. Prepares, loads, and operates sterilizers such as steam, Sterrad, Steris, ETO, and a high level disinfecting scope reprocessor; prepares operating room case carts daily using surgery schedule. MSTs receive guidance from more experienced staff members for more complex tasks and require direct supervision on new assignments.
(4) GS-06 (Full Performance Level)
• Experience. One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
• Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
• Knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings.
• Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination.
• Working knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, medical conditions and procedures.
• Knowledge of sterility principles in regards to instrumentation.
• Ability to read and interpret written instructions and procedures.
• Assignment. This is the full performance level for the occupation. Receives contaminated critical and semi-critical RMD in the decontamination area and may receive noncritical equipment in the decontamination area as well. Disassembles the RMD and determines the correct cleaning method, such as but not limited to ultrasonic cleaners, mechanical washers, cart washers and chemical cleaning/decontamination agents, as determined by manufacturer instructions. Inspects, assembles and determines the correct method and packaging for sterilization such as but not limited to steam, Sterrad, Steris, ETO, and high level disinfecting scope reprocessors. Performs and documents daily operational checks and records for all sterilization equipment.
Physical Requirements: The work is performed in various settings; office, preparation, decontamination, sterile storage areas, and in other services and departments. The incumbent may be required to work in areas that are hot, cold, drafty, and poorly lighted. The employee is subject to the possibility of falls, scrapes, cuts, bruises and other injuries from material handling equipment. The work requires standing, walking, bending, stooping stretching, and reaching during the entire workday, and frequent bending and lifting of supply packages (occasionally weighing as much as 50 pounds). All SPS staff is required to wear Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) when assigned to all areas within SPS, operations as well as any of the clinical and operating room environments where appropriate PPE is deemed necessary while performing duties.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-6. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-3 to GS-6.
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: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
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.
During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
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 11+3.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-1+ 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-1+ 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.
Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.
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VA St Louis Health Care System
1 Jefferson Barracks Drive
St. Louis, MO 63125
US
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Medical Supply Technician |SPS position is now open for candidates interested in the Technician Jobs sector. This role in St. Louis offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Technician Jobs is a plus.
