Biomedical Engineer Job in Houston, TX

Vacancy No. CBST-12773465-25-JB Department Veterans Health Administration
Salary $63,378.00 to $146,157.00 Grade 7 to 12
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 8/6/2025 Close Date 8/15/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Houston, TX


Summary

Employee supports and advances patient care by applying engineering and managerial skills to healthcare technology.




This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

U.S. Citizens

Duties

Current permanent VA employees and Federal employees from other federal agencies should apply under CBST-12773466-25-JB

Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional

  • Performing as a project leader in defining the requirements and specifications of medical electronic systems.
  • Assists in the development and implementation of the complex Biomedical Engineering Medical Center Program.
  • Serves as a staff advisor to the Biomedical Engineering Supervisor in the area of Biomedical Engineering as well as engineering principles and practices, which relate to the area of specialization and scientific discipline, drawing from professional educational background, as well as practical experience.
  • Has shared responsibility for the development and implementation of the medical center's system for physiological monitoring, automation in clinical laboratories, patient resuscitation, computer applications in biomedicine, and medical information systems.
  • Designs new systems to meet the requirements for medical services using conventional and state of the art equipment and components or specifies modifications to existing devices and systems for specific requirements of the medical center. Has shared responsibility for medical engineering development, education and training, including instructing medical and allied and health personnel in the utilization of the equipment.
  • Assists in establishing controls and procedures and monitors implementation to assure that all electronic devices and systems, and computers related to patient care equipment are utilized efficiently and safely. Observes and critiques the use of these devices, maintaining repair services and training personnel where necessary. Evaluates the patient safety features of electrical equipment and oversees the patient electrical safety program for the medical center.
  • Assists Medical Research and A&MMS staff in the purchase of new electronic equipment by analyzing requirements, developing specifications and evaluating new devices and systems when necessary. Coordinates and directs the installation of the equipment and systems as required. Verifies the operational integrity and reliability of new equipment and advises the medical center staff in maintenance of the equipment and systems.
  • Develops the work performance specifications for a variety of service contractors, including that servicing specialized x-ray equipment. Monitors the work of service contractors to assure that the work performance meets the needs of the medical center and conforms to the terms of the contract. Communicates essential contract information to personnel in the using services. Interfaces with a multiplicity of services on solving problems related to both current and past contracts.
  • May be called upon to perform basic managerial functions of planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling related to the work of employees within the Biomedical Engineering Section and coordinates their effort to achieve established objectives.
  • Distributes work load, assigns priorities, performs independent assessments and analyses, and recommends policy and policy changes to the Biomedical Engineering Supervisor. Frequently, due to the nature or the work performed, no established guideline exists. The incumbent is expected to analyze, organize, innovate, modify and adapt as necessary to carry out program objectives.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm, subject to change based on the needs of the facility.
Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not Authorized
Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases. When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade).
Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year)
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.
Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66.
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA
Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Telework: Ad-hoc
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 01215F, 01216F,01217F, 01218F
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
  • 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 trial period.
  • Subject to background/security investigation.
  • Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
  • Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
  • Must be able to independently operate Government Vehicle.
  • Must provide clean driving record report from the DMV during the pre-employment process.
  • Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).

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: Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with [VA Handbook 5005, Part II,] chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3.g.)
Education and/or Experience:
  • 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.
OR,
  • 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.
English Language Proficiency. Biomedical Engineers must be proficient in spoken and written English.

Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements, the following education and experience criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates:

GS-7: (Entry level):Experience: None beyond the basic requirements

Education: Bachelor's degree as outlined above or CCE certification with at least a bachelor's degree not listed above.

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

GS-9 (Developmental Level 1):

Experience: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-7).
OR; Education: Masters Degree in Biomedical Engineering, or a related field of study.
OR; Bachelor's degree as outlined above plus two full years of progressively higher level graduate education in a related field of study, provided the applicant's total background demonstrates the KSA's for the GS-9 level assignment.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: In addition the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSA's:
  • 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 experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS-9), and must fully meet the GS-9 level KSA's listed above.
OR; Education: Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in Biomedical Engineering, or a related field of engineering, as outlined above.
OR; Bachelors degree, plus three full years of progressively higher level graduate education in a related field of study as outlined above.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: In addition the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSA's:
  • 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.
GS-12 (Full Performance Level);

Experience: Completion of at least one year of creditable specialized equivalent to the next lower level (GS-11) such as experience functioning 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, Safe Medical Devices Act (SMDA) and TJC requirement 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.
OR Completion of a post-doctoral research fellowship in the field of biomedical engineering.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: In addition the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSA's:
  • 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.
Preferred Experience: None

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 - 12. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS - 07 to GS - 12.

(Qualifications continued in Education Section)

Education

Physical Requirements: Physical aspects associated with work required of this assignment are typical for the occupation, see Duties section for essential job duties of the position. May require standing, lifting, carrying, sitting, stooping, bending, puling, and pushing. May be required to wear personal protective equipment and undergo annual TB screening or testing as conditions of employment. Able to independently operate a motor vehicle.

Work Environment: Work is performed in an office/clinic setting with minimal risks that requires normal safety precautions; the area is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated. However, the work environment requires someone with the ability to handle several tasks at once in sometimes stressful situations. For positions requiring examinations, information is gleaned from the OF 178, as submitted with the recruitment packet.

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.

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.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

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

Required Documents

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

  • Resume
  • Transcript


Resume Requirement: Your resume must include the following information: Job title, description of duties, beginning and ending date (month/year) of employment, and average hours worked per week.

The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please 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 (VA)
  • License
  • Certification as a Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE)
  • Other (2)
  • Professional Certification
  • Resume
  • SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
  • Transcript

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 08/15/2025 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12773465.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.

Agency contact information

Jonna Bernhardt
Address
Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center
2002 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, TX 77030
US

Next steps

Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.

You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.

NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.