Biomedical Engineer (Clinical Rehabilitation Engineer)

at  US Veterans Health Administration

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: Candidates will not be appointed under authority of 38 U.S.C. chapters 73 or 74, to serve in a direct patient-care capacity in VHA who is not proficient in written and spoken English.
• Biomedical Engineer Education:
• 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
• Certification as a Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) and a bachelor’s degree not listed above.

Experience must have been attained in a healthcare setting for Biomedical Engineer (Clinical) positions

EDUCATION:

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.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities None beyond the basic requirements

EDUCATION

Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, or a related field of study.
OR,
Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, or a related field of study OR Certification as a Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) and a bachelor’s degree not listed as a related field, plus two full years of progressively higher level graduate education in a related field of study, provided the applicant’s total background demonstrates the KSAs for the GS-9 level assignment.

DEMONSTRATED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

In addition to the experience above, the candidate’s resume must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:

• 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.

GS-11 (Developmental Level 2)
Experience. At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the grade of GS-9 (Developmental level 1)
OR,

EDUCATION

Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in Biomedical Engineering, or a related field of engineering.
OR,
Bachelor’s degree, plus three full years of progressively higher level graduate education in a related field of study, OR Certification as a Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) and a bachelor’s degree not listed as a related field.

DEMONSTRATED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES.

In addition to the experience above, the candidate’s resume must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:

• Ability to implement and/or sustain an equipment management or biomedical research program that meets The Joint Commission (TJC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 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.

GS-12 (Full Performance Level)Experience: Completion of at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level; or completion of a post-doctoral research fellowship in the field of biomedical engineering, and must fully meet the KSAs at that level.

DEMONSTRATED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

In addition to the experience above, the candidate’s resume must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:

• 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, SMDA, and [TJC] 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 VHA.
• 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.

Assignment. At the full performance level, employees work under general supervision, with wide latitude to exercise independent judgment. Drawing upon extended professional and technical experience, employees demonstrate anintimate understanding of complex clinical and biomedical subject matter. They serve as institutional resources, working extensively with clinical stakeholders, supporting clinical services by leading market
References: VA Handbook 5005/104 PART II APPENDIX G38 March 25, 2019
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-7 to GS-12

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.

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. YOUR APPLICATION, RESUME, 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

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)
• License
• Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) - Certification
• Misc.
• PCS Orders
• Performance Appraisal
• Professional Certification
• 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 05/31/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12408539.

• 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.

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.
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DUTIES

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Design, fabricate, customize, integrate and/or modify assistive technology devices as needed for application to the targeted patient population.
• Act as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for assistive technology for the inter-& multi-disciplinary teams providing alternative solutions to AT problems.
• Fit and adjust prototype assistive and rehabilitation devices and/or systems.
• Collect and analyze outcome measure data for performance improvement.
• Collaborate with other members of the multidisciplinary team on the assessment, recommendation, implementation, and follow-up processes including setting up, adjusting, modifying, programming and minimal repairs of assistive technology equipment.
• Collaborate with other hospital employees such as Nursing, Prosthetics, Physicians, etc. regarding the Assistive Technology program and application of technology to disabled populations.
• Communication with assistive technology device manufacturers in terms of design requirements, updates, emerging technology, compatibility with other devices, etc.
• Critically analyze, synthesize and evaluate the effectiveness of assistive technology solutions.
• Lead measurement and analysis of devices, tasks, activities, environments and individuals as it relates to the assistive technology service delivery process.
• Subject matter expert in specialized clinical technology including service, system administration, training and quality assurance within the Polytrauma, Spinal Cord injury & Disease, ALS and other Neurological Disorders.
• Primary collaborator between clinical services and research departments.
• Lead selection, development and implementation of outcome measures.
• Ensure safe practices used by all associates during clinical sessions.
• Assure customer service needs are met on various levels. - Intervene and problem solve with clients, families and associates to ensure concerns are resolved.
• Assistance with maintaining computer software and hardware and internet access.
• Maintain AT Lab computers, including but not limited to: software, hardware, system scanning, trouble shooting, and private internet access for the program and inpatient units.
• Collaborate as a team member and with teams from other VA facilities or community facilities including but not limited to physicians, clinicians, rehabilitation engineers, manufactures, vendors/reps, and administrators in the delivery and provision of AT services.
• Demonstrate the ability to establish priorities and perform assignments in a reasonable allotted time.
• Demonstrate the ability to assist in carrying out treatment plans as part of the AT team that includes participation in the evaluation, fittings, adjustments and re-adjustment services in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings.
• Communicate with manufacturing representatives to ensure that only current and relevant AT equipment is present for demonstration equipment and clinical trials.
• Assure that demonstration equipment is in clean, safe and in appropriate working condition.
• Responsible for maintenance, organization and inventory of all treatment and storage areas to ensure appropriate and safe clinical work environment.
• Responsible for maintaining document control for pertinent AT related information.
• Advise clinical and administrative staff on assistive and rehabilitation technology, including existing and emerging technology and which addresses viability, long-term suitability, compatibility and/or safety.
• Privileged to do consultation and procedural oversight via TeleHealth per their clinical specialty.
• Administrative duties include, but not limited to, documentation, work load tracking, purchasing of equipment.
• All other duties as assigned by less than 25% of major responsibilities.
• Conduct an equipment management program that meets current accreditation body standards such as the Joint Commission (JC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), etc.
• Manage recall and safety alert programs for medical devices assigned to the Assistive Technology program and ensure that these devices are in compliance with patient safety goals, the Safe Medical Device Act (SMDA) and safety standards of other accreditation bodies.
• Develop training and education programs that addresses the safe and effective use of medical equipment and/or technology for staff, patients/clients and caregivers/families
• Design, fabricate, customize, integrate and/or modify assistive technology devices as needed for application to the targeted patient population.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30-4:00 p.m.
Telework: Not Authorized
Virtual: This is not a virtual position
Functional Statement #: 000000
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

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)
• License
• Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) - Certification
• Misc.
• PCS Orders
• Performance Appraisal
• Professional Certification
• Resume
• Separation Notice (RIF)
• SF-15
• SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
• Transcrip

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 05/31/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12408539.

• 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

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)
• License
• Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE) - Certification
• Misc.
• PCS Orders
• Performance Appraisal
• Professional Certification
• Resume
• Separation Notice (RIF)
• SF-15
• SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
• Transcrip