Medical Instrument Technician (Hemodialysis) Job in Milwaukee, WI

Vacancy No. CAZP-12757034-25-DK Department Veterans Health Administration
Salary $47,018.00 to $75,226.00 Grade 6 to 8
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 7/2/2025 Close Date 7/17/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Status Candidates
Locations:
Milwaukee, WI


Summary

This Medical Instrument Technician (MIT) - Hemodialysis position is located at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center. The MIT is responsible for the operation of hemodialysis equipment in the treatment of patients with renal failure and monitoring patients during dialysis treatments, makes necessary adjustments with consultation or notification of the RN according to the patient's medical condition, previous experience, and accepted practices.




This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

Current permanent Milwaukee VA employees including CBOCs and VCS.

Duties

Duties:

  • Monitors dialysis treatment parameters, e.g., vital signs, weight loss. Collects and records vital signs.
  • Assembles all necessary supplies and equipment at chair side. Verifies orders with collaboration of the RN.
  • Selects appropriate instruments and techniques and troubleshoots complex equipment.
  • Inspects and evaluates circulatory access site. Cleans and dresses site using sterile techniques.
  • Connects patient to the dialyzer (using venipunctures, external shunt, etc.) and operates equipment to initiate extracorporeal circulation and performance of dialysis. Prepares and dismantles extracorporeal blood circuits and the dialysis machine to create a sterile, air-free blood circuit using a standard aseptic procedure.
  • Operates and monitors dialysis machinery in performance of dialysis procedures using prescribed standard procedures and the machine monitoring system.
  • Adjusts blood flow rates.
  • Collects laboratory specimens from patients using syringes, needles, tubes, and different sterile techniques. Processes lab samples, boxes samples, and prepares samples for shipment.
  • Documents and charts accurately on flow sheets and medical records.
  • Recognizes medical complications or altered response to treatment and notifies RN or MD.
  • Assist with and cannulates of the hemodialysis fistula, graft or central line for dialysis.
  • Administers saline or other solutions intravenously into the dialysis line when in his/her judgment the machine has removed more fluid from the patient than indicated.
  • Observes dialysate delivery unit for correct functioning during dialysis and adjusts when necessary.
  • Adjusts hemoglobin detector sensitivity during dialysis.
  • Responds to equipment alarms, adjusts alarm limits, and corrects the cause of malfunction which triggered the alarm.
  • Observes for and/or tests for blood leaks.
  • Returns blood to patient upon termination of dialysis.
  • Recognizes when emergency measures are necessary and institutes life saving measures until medical assistance is secured. Initiates or assists in CPR.
  • Prepares or modifies chemical preparations for the concentrates or special chemical baths to produce specific treatment for patients with varying needs or values using different measuring devices, graphs, formulas, chemicals, and mixers.
  • Assists patients with non-nursing requests.
  • Equipment Operation, Repair, and Maintenance
  • Responsible for the proper and safe operation of the equipment during the performance of dialysis, for the accuracy of testing, for the correction of malfunctioning, for the replacement of some or all parts of the system in the event of complications (clotting, blood leakage, hypotension, etc.), and for the disassembly and re-sterilization of the equipment.
  • Acts independently and uses his/her own experience and judgment in setting up and operating the equipment without the need to have a physician present.
  • Responsible for preparation and sterilization of equipment and assembly of disposables. Cleans and sanitizes dialysis equipment to ensure bacteriostatic operating conditions using hypochlorate and other cleaning solutions. Disposes of expendable components.
  • Calibrates all systems dialysis, equipment, delivery systems and ancillary equipment
  • Performs maintenance care and corrects malfunctioning of all dialysis equipment used. Performs troubleshooting of dialysis equipment to keep the equipment in working order by referring to manuals, diagrams, and electrical schematic prints.
  • Tests dialysate conductivity and pH.
  • Rinses and primes dialyzer, attaches and installs all required tubing, positions dialyzer, prepares dialysate delivery unit for dialysis, connects dialyzer and all pumps, alarms and monitors.
  • Performs surveillance of water treatment systems to ensure sufficiently treated water for delivery systems.
  • Performs daily heat disinfection and weekly bleach sterilization of the water treatment system and confirms adequacy of cleansing after each. Records results on a dialysis flow sheet.
  • Sets up, uses, reprocesses, and maintains all dialysis center equipment designed by the manufacturer to be reused for multiple patients.
  • Participates in training in the set-up, use, reprocessing, and maintenance of dialysis center equipment leading to initial competency and validates by demonstrated competency.
  • Uses equipment appropriately and demonstrates and/or verbalizes the proper use, reprocessing, and maintenance.
  • Demonstrates compliance with infection control practices such as hand washing and wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment. Demonstrates safe work practices.

Work Schedule: Variable start times 0700 to 2000
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #00090F #00092F #00093F
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Aauthorized

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 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.
  • 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: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
  • Must be proficient in spoken and written English
Grade Determinations:

GS-6 Experience: At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level (GS-5) which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics related to the duties of the position to be filled of operating and monitoring dialysis systems for chronic patients; checking patient condition and determining the proper treatment procedures, technique, and machine adjustments; understanding medical treatment for patients with renal failure; administering prescribed medication and observing the patient for desired action or adverse reaction; and recognizing and reacting to signs and symptoms that signal the onset of complications of dialysis including hypotension, disequilibrium, seizures, and arrhythmias. In addition, demonstrate the following KSAs:
  1. Skill in setting up, operating, and performing calibrations as required on a variety of dialysis equipment.
  2. Skill in performing and interpreting test results (dialysate chemistries, water treatment testing for contaminates, etc.) including the ability to analyze deviations from the expected norm and responding appropriately.
  3. Knowledge of American Association of Medical Instrumentation (AMMI) standards and unit policies as they relate to water treatment.
  4. Knowledge of physiological and psychological changes and conditions related to end stage renal disease.
  5. Ability to calculate dialysis baths according to the physician's orders per patient by mixing critical concentrates, i.e., calcium, potassium, and bicarbonate.
  6. Knowledge of Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS).

GS-7 Experience: At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level (GS-6) which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics related to the duties of the positions to be filled. This would be experience which provided knowledge the equipment, standard procedures, and typical machine problems and/or patient reactions to treatment and providing hemodialysis for chronic patients, assisting the physician during central venous catheter insertion, assisting in the training of patients for home dialysis/self-care, and acting as a mentor or preceptor to lower graded hemodialysis technicians. At this level, the technician accepts responsibility and accountability for his/her own actions In addition, demonstrate the following KSAs:
  1. Ability to assist the physician in more complex procedures such as central venous catheter insertion.
  2. Ability to assist in training patients in home/self-care by teaching components of machine operation including water treatment and monitoring patients for compliance.
  3. Ability to act as a mentor or preceptor to lower graded technicians.
  4. Ability to analyze deviations from the expected, determine whether the deviations are machine or patient related, and respond according to the findings.

GS-8 Experience: At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level (GS-7) which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics related to the duties of the positions to be filled. This would be experience which provided knowledge of the more complex procedures, the pharmacology related to this occupation, and knowledge of related acute disorders and diseases and their effects on organs and methods of treatments and serving as a member of a dialysis team performing dialysis on acutely ill patients including those within an intensive care setting. Assignments involve performing both peritoneal and hemodialysis procedures. Participating in percutaneous renal biopsies, watching the patient during the procedure and properly processing the specimen. Assisting the physician in peritoneal catheter insertions and observing the patient for vital signs and provides post-operative care. Providing instruction and monitors patients for home dialysis. Performing training of physicians, nurses, and technicians on hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis techniques. In addition, demonstrate the following KSAs:
  1. Knowledge of the hemodialysis process and equipment needed for home/self-care including knowledge of common machine problems and repairs to such equipment.
  2. Knowledge of the equipment and procedures for peritoneal dialysis.
  3. Ability to assist the physician with percutaneous renal biopsies and peritoneal catheter insertion.
  4. Ability to provide instruction to dialysis patients in home/self-care and in the maintenance of the equipment.
  5. Ability to provide instruction for physicians, nurses, and other personnel in dialysis procedures, equipment operation and maintenance, etc.
Preferred Experience:
  • 3-5 years of Dialysis experience.
References: https://www.va.gov/OHRM/QualificationStandards/HT38/0649-MedicalInstrumentTechnician.pdf

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-6 to GS-8.

Physical Requirements:
This position requires visual acuity, keen hearing, clear distinctive speech, and manual dexterity. This position requires potentially extended periods (6-8 hours per day) of continued walking, standing, stooping, sitting, bending, pulling, and pushing. Transferring patients and objects may be required. Mechanical lifts are provided. The incumbent may be exposed to infected patients and contaminated materials and will be required to don protective clothing in isolation situations, operative/invasive procedures, or home settings. The incumbent may occasionally be exposed to patients who are combative secondary to delirium, dementia, or psychiatric disorders. The incumbent must be a mature, flexible, sensible individual capable of working effectively in stressful situations, able to shift priorities based on patient needs. Must complete annual Employee Health requirements. The incumbent who provides care in home settings or other offsite locations may be required to drive and/or ride in GSA-vehicles. Lifting and transportation of bulky supplies and equipment is required. Must be able to lift and transport large salt bags weighing 40 lbs..

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

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.

Benefits

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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


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
  • Other (1)
  • Other (2)
  • Other (3)
  • Resume
  • 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.

Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.

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 07/17/2025 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12757034.

  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

Trisha Juanez
Address
Clement J Zablocki Veterans Administration Medical Center
5000 West National Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53295
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.


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