Summary This is a multi-level position for a Staff Biomedical Engineer within the SPARK M MATSUNAGA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MEDICAL CENTER in Kapolei, Hawaii. The incumbent will be in a developmental status that is somewhat self-directed. The Staff Biomedical Engineer will report directly to the Chief Biomedical Engineer. The incumbent assists with design, development and implementation of a comprehensive healthcare facility (HCF). Responsibilities Conceives, plans, and conducts investigative and development work in areas where the interface of engineering in medicine and biology may prove beneficial to the comprehensive healthcare facility (HCF). He /She must be able to utilize this information to solve biomedical engineering problems. The incumbent is responsible for developing a cohesive engineering expertise base unique to the HCF's clinical environment and requirements. Must be able to learn organizational concepts to meet operational needs. The incumbent provides advice, consultation and guidance in biomedical engineering matters for all HCF professional and administrative services and management. Incumbent defines requirements and specifications of medical systems, configures new systems to meet the requirements for medical/surgical services using state of the art equipment and components and specifies modifications to existing complex devices and systems for the unique requirements of this Medical Center. Responsible for planning and directing Biomedical Engineering Support Technician (BESS) activities. The incumbent establishes policies, material and manpower requirements for the efficient, cost-effective operation of the BESS activities. Assists with preparing all medical equipment maintenance and repair budgets. Proper and effective utilization of resources is critical for the most efficient and cost-effective methods of equipment maintenance and repair. Assists with planning maintenance and repair (M & R) on all medical equipment and for determining preventive maintenance, electrical safety testing and calibration frequencies. Based on in-house capabilities, equipment usage, and cost analysis, the incumbent determines how equipment will be maintained, i.e. by service contract or by in-house technicians. The incumbent monitors equipment warranties and all service contracts. Responsible for monitoring published hazard reports and device warnings and for investigating any device related incident occurring in the HCF. Assists with planning, organizing and presenting educational and training classes on such topics as instruction, electronic theory and electrical safety. Expected to be available as a resource to Biomedical Engineering in the VISN in such matters as electrical safety, technical issues, standards review, policy review, and medical technology. Attends meetings of HCF wide committees where engineering and technical input requiring biomedical engineering expertise is essential for committee functions and goals. Attendance is expected at training conferences and meetings included in the requirements for the Development of the Staff Engineer to the Full Performance Level of the 0858 Series, as well as facility or VISN level meetings. Acts as technical advisor to Logistics, Medical, Surgical, Nursing and other services in developing and reviewing specifications of proposed new systems and equipment and makes recommendations regarding selection and acceptance. Assists with ensuring HCF compliance with Joint Commission standards relating to Biomedical Engineering. Assists with coordinating the installation of new medical equipment and systems at the HCF. Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, possible Saturday rotation Telework: Not eligible Virtual: This is not a virtual position Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Available 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. 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. 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. Qualifications 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. Must be proficient in spoken and written English. The work requires the application of engineering concepts and methodology to investigate problems and phenomena of living systems, in order to advance the understanding of these systems and to improve medical practices. In addition, the work involves the development and/or deployment of] materials, instruments, diagnostic and therapeutic devices, other equipment applicable to the study of living systems, and to the practice of medicine to improve healthcare delivery within VHA. Biomedical Engineering work requires knowledge and skill in multiple engineering disciplines and specialized subject matter expertise in areas such as computer applications, electronics, mathematics, along with a background in human anatomy and physiology. Grade Determinations: To qualify for the GS-09 level, Applicants must have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level, directly related to the position to be filled. GS-09 Candidates must possess all of the following: Knowledge of the principles, theories, concepts, and practices of the Biomedical Engineering profession. Ability to interpret relevant codes, regulations, guidelines, and standards, and make recommendations to ensure compliance with medical center programs. Ability to understand the operational needs of clinical services in the health care system. Ability to prepare material on current technical topics and trends, for presentation to other technical staff and mid-level hospital management, and the ability to keep abreast of changes in technology. To qualify for the GS-11 level, Applicants must have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level, directly related to the position to be filled. GS-11 Candidates must possess all of the following: Ability to implement and/or sustain an equipment management or biomedical research program that meets The Joint Commission, National Fire Protection Association, or other applicable regulatory requirements. Ability to develop material for a continuing education program for clinical or research staff, that address the principles and application of medical technology, and/or biomedical theory used in healthcare. Ability to advise staff on emerging medical technology, or research procedures, while keeping abreast of changes in such technology, and utilizing the information to solve biomedical engineering problems. Knowledge of basic project management principles, as applied to the healthcare setting and medical equipment, and information system implementation. To qualify for the GS-12 level, Applicants must have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level, directly related to the position to be filled. GS-12 Candidates must possess all of the following: Ability to conduct a medical equipment management or biomedical research program that is compliant with applicable healthcare standards and regulatory agencies. Ability to develop a curriculum for a continuing education program, that address the safe and effective use of medical technology, and/or research devices. Ability to manage a recall and safety alert program for medical devices, including medical device hazard investigations, to assure compliance with patient safety goals, the Safe Medical Devices Act, and The Joint Commission requirements. Ability to conduct capital asset and infrastructure planning for medical equipment spanning initial concept, installation, and effective implementation of complex medical equipment. Ability to function as the subject matter expert in the field of biomedical engineering, directly supporting specialized clinical technology, including service, system administration, training, quality assurance, and life-cycle management. Ability to effectively advise clinical and administrative staff on medical technology, including existing and emerging technology, which addresses viability, long-term suitability, compatibility, and/or safety. Knowledge of concepts related to computer based medical systems, networking protocols, and information security as it applies to medical technology within Skill in communicating and working collaboratively with key stakeholders, including technical and professional staff at various levels of the organization. Ability to apply project management principles to deployment of medical equipment and health information technologies. References: VA Handbook 5005/130, Part II, Appendix G38 - Biomedical Engineer Qualification Standard. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-12. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-07 to GS-12. Physical Requirements: Work involves standing, walking, stooping, bending, climbing stairs, and frequently working in cramped spaces for prolonged periods. The employee continually lifts from 10 to 40 pounds and occasionally objects weighing in excess of 40 pounds. The work also involves coping with complex, persistent demands from a variety of sources that can be regarded as a high pressure. 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. Education and/or Experience. The individual must meet either item (1) or (2) below to meet this requirement: (1) Bachelor's Degree or Higher in Engineering. To be creditable, the curriculum must be from a school of engineering with at least one curriculum accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), as a professional engineering curriculum. Examples of acceptable engineering degrees include: Biomedical Engineering, Clinical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biomechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Biochemical Engineering. Titles may vary from educational institutions and change over time. OR, (2) Certification as a Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) and a Bachelor's Degree not listed above. Certification means having successfully passed a CCE written and oral examination administered by the American College of Clinical Engineering. If appointed with a CCE requirement, the employee must maintain certification throughout employment. The American College of Clinical Engineering determines acceptable educational preparation and degree requirements for CCE eligibility. 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). 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 position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. 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. Physical Requirements: A significant portion of tasks performed will involve utilizing a computer workstation for extended periods of time configuring software and managing networked medical systems. This will involve prolonged periods of sitting or standing while viewing digital displays. The position will also involve lifting and carrying items weighing up to 40lbs on an occasional basis. The work requires frequent standing, walking, bending, crouching, reaching, and stooping. Climbing and working on ladders may be required. The majority of work will be performed in well lighted, heated, and ventilated areas.