Skip to main content

This job has expired

Biomedical Engineer

Employer
USAJobs
Location
Baltimore, Maryland
Closing date
Sep 20, 2019
Duties

Summary

Supports and advances patient care by applying engineering and managerial skills to healthcare technology. Assists in conducting capital asset and infrastructure planning of complex medical equipment; spanning concept, installation, training, and support. Serves as an institutional resource who directly supports the clinical technology by providing maintenance, system administration, and training.
Learn more about this agency

Responsibilities

- Supports and advances patient care by applying engineering and managerial skills to healthcare technology.
- Assists in conducting capital asset and infrastructure planning of complex medical equipment; spanning concept, installation, training, and support.
- Serves as an institutional resource who directly supports the clinical technology by providing maintenance, system administration, and training.
- Conducts incoming inspection and acceptance testing, performance and safety testing, calibration, and maintenance and repair.
- Organizes and leads projects of broad scope and objectives for healthcare technology in all areas of the Medical Center, CLC, and off-site locations.
- Assists in developing and improving complex medical equipment systems, working with project engineering staff.
- Helps implement preventative maintenance programs for all medical equipment.
- Evaluates vendor service contract needs/proposals and makes recommendations to the Chief of Biomedical Engineering.
- Prepares required procurement documentation for submission of medical equipment, vendor service, parts, and contract requests.
- Responsible for establishing policies, procedures, and standards that effect medical equipment.
- Assists in the development and maintenance of the Medical Equipment Management Program that meets current Joint Commission and NFPA requirements.
- Investigates accidents/incidents as well as complying with the reporting requirements under the Safe Medical Devices Act (SMDA) to the FDA and manufacturer.
- Responsible for medical device alerts/hazard recalls and managing the medical device alert database.
- Assists with compliance with Medical Device Isolation Architecture (MDIA) and information security requirements for all networked medical devices, including VLAN and ACL development.
- Assists in the provision of a continuing education program for clinical staff addressing the principles and application of medical instrumentation use in the delivery of health care.
- Acts as an envoy for Biomedical Engineering to facilitate better relationships and procedures with other services within the Medical Center; and represents Biomedical Engineering in meetings/conferences at various levels.

Work Schedule: Full-Time 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Monday - Friday
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Travel Required

Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.

Supervisory status
No

Promotion Potential
12

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
  • Designated and/or random drug testing may be required
  • Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
  • You may be required to serve a probationary period
  • Subject to a background/security investigation
  • Must be proficient in written and spoken English
  • Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process


Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 09/25/2019.
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.
Education and/or Experience . ** SEE EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS BELOW **
Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service.
English Language Proficiency. Biomedical Engineers must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part.
Grade Determinations:
Minimum Requirements for GS-07 level Experience .
Experience. None beyond the basic requirements.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. None beyond the basic requirements.
Assignment. Employees serve in an entry level biomedical engineer career development position. It is expected that biomedical engineers at the entry level receive ongoing guidance from more experienced staff members and perform assignments under close supervision.
Minimum Requirements for GS-09 level Experience.
Experience. At least (one) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower level. OR,
Education. ** SEE EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS BELOW **
Assignment. Biomedical Engineers, at this developmental level, require direction on more complex tasks. Employees complete technical assignments in the engineering field, under the direction of a senior biomedical engineer and will be required to rotate through, and participate in, the operations of other hospital services. At the GS-9 grade level, employees function with oversight by a supervisor for more complex assignments.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate 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.
Minimum Requirements for GS-11 level Experience.
Experience. At least (one) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower level. (and must fully meet the KSAs at that level.)
OR,
Education. ** SEE EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS BELOW **
Assignment. At the developmental level, employees function on a semi-independent basis with limited oversight by senior biomedical engineers. They participate in medical device hazard investigations, to assure compliance with patient safety goals, the Safe Medical Devices Act (SMDA), TJC requirements, and assist in the development of an equipment management program at the medical center. Employees may lead medical technology deployments, directly support medical equipment, or participate in research projects.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate 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.
Minimum Requirements for GS-12 level Experience (Full Performance).
Experience. Completion of at least (one) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower level; or completion of a post-doctoral research fellowship in the field of biomedical engineering and must fully meet the KSAs at that level.
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 an intimate understanding of complex clinical and biomedical subject matter. They serve as institutional resources, working extensively with clinical stakeholders, supporting clinical services by leading market research, technology assessments, integration planning, and implementation of both current and emerging medical technologies. The employee shares responsibility for managing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, network security issues for medical systems, and the information communicated across these systems. Biomedical Engineers at the GS-12 grade level further support the clinical mission by contributing to the continuing education program for clinical staff, helping ensure safe and efficient healthcare delivery. Biomedical Engineers at the GS-12 grade level support the institution by assisting with capital asset and infrastructure planning, to help ensure successful strategic planning. They may collaborate frequently with contracting to execute judicious healthcare technology procurements. Within the Biomedical Engineering Department, the employee provides leadership that ensures high quality and responsive customer service is an integral component of biomedical engineering service delivery. They are highly effective communicators, capable of serving as subject matter experts directly supporting the life cycle management of clinical technology, to include ongoing service, system administration, training, and quality assurance. At this level, employees may assist in clinical research projects in the biomedical engineering field.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate 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.

Education

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 in item (1) above. Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE). Certification means having successfully passed a CCE written and oral examination administered by the American College of Clinical Engineering. Individuals with CCE certification demonstrate competency and professional recognition, as measured by an examination designed by their peers. Certification promotes healthcare delivery improvement through the continuing assessment and recognition of the competency of professionals. These professionals support and advance patient care by applying engineering and management skills to healthcare technology. 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.
Creditable Professional Engineering Experience. To be creditable, experience must have been accomplished after receipt of the bachelor's degree, and/or CCE certification, and requires the possession and use of knowledge, skills, and abilities associated within the scope of the biomedical engineering profession. Additionally, the experience must have been attained in a healthcare setting for Biomedical Engineer (Clinical) positions, or a research setting for Biomedical Engineer (Research) positions, and be directly applicable to the assignment.

Education Requirements for GS-07
Education. Bachelor's degree as outlined in paragraph 3.b.(1), above, or CCE certification with at least a bachelor's degree not listed in paragraph 3.b.(1).
Education Requirements for GS-09
Education. Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering, or a related field of study, as outlined in paragraph 3.b.(1).
OR,
Bachelor's degree, as outlined in paragraph 3.b.(1), 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.
Education Requirements for GS-11
Education. Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in Biomedical Engineering, or a related field of engineering, as outlined in paragraph 3.b.(1).
OR,
Bachelor's degree, plus three full years of progressively higher level graduate education in a related field of study, as outlined in paragraph 3.b.(1).

*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 .

References: VA Handbook 5005/104, Part II, Appendix G38. BIOMEDICAL ENGINEER
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: See VA Handbook 5019

Additional information

This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.

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.

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.

If you are unable to apply online view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application .

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, résumé, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.

NOTE: The Professional Standards Board (a peer-review group) will review the selected candidate's education and experience and recommend the grade and salary at which the candidate will be placed. For internal selectees eligible for promotion, the board will recommend grade and HR will determine step in accordance with policy.

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.

Background checks and security clearance

Security clearance
Not Required

Drug test required
Yes

Position sensitivity and risk
Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk

Trust determination process
Suitability/Fitness

Required Documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

  • Resume
  • Transcript


VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: http://www.va.gov/vaforms/search_action.asp?FormNo=2850&tkey=&Action=Search .

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)
  • VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations
  • 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 http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx .

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.

Get job alerts

Create a job alert and receive personalized job recommendations straight to your inbox.

Create alert