Surgical Technician

The Surgical Technician (ST) is a member of the Surgical Specialty Operating Room surgical team. The ST aids the surgeon and other team members during surgical procedures. The ST participates with the surgical team members in planning and implementing complex procedures under the general supervision of the surgical team. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 08/03/2026. This occupational series has an Individual Occupational Requirement - for this series, the following Basic Requirement must be met in addition to the Specialized Experience. Specialized Experience (for positions at GS-4 and above): Positions in this series range widely in type and include support duties to medical or health personnel such as audiologists, speech pathologists, medical officers, and optometrists. Therefore, technician experience is experience that requires the application of the knowledge, methods, and techniques of the position to be filled. You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below: GS-07 Surgical Technician Specialized Experience: Monitors the proper functioning of instruments and equipment in the surgical field. Determines the effectiveness of sterilization, packing, storage, and shelf life. Observes and responds promptly to each stage of the surgical procedure. Anticipates the needs of the surgeon by maintaining a high level of concentration for extended periods of time. Handles instruments, supplies, and equipment during a variety of surgical procedures. Utilizes universal precautions to protect patients and staff from exposure to any infectious materials. Follows all infection control policies and procedures when handling specimens, supplies, and equipment. Monitors and maintains sterile practices throughout surgical procedures. Plans and discusses each procedure with surgical professionals to determine proper positioning and assurances of all supplies/equipment are available. Assists the surgeon by performing such procedures as preparing skin grafts, suctioning, holding retractors, applying skin staples, and cutting sutures. Recognizes changes in patient condition and takes appropriate actions in response to the situation. Provides guidance and support to staff regarding infection control and patient safety protocol. Provides emotional support to patients before, during, and after surgery. Substitution of Education for Experience (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED): Candidate will have successfully completed one (1) full year of graduate education directly related to the work of this position. This education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university. Combination of Education and Experience (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED): Candidate will have equivalent combination of successfully complete graduate education and experience, described above, to meet total qualification requirements. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Duties regularly require providing manual assistance in lifting and positioning patients, most of whom are at stages of unconsciousness. There are extensive periods of regular, recurring standing, walking, bending, lifting, pushing, reaching, and prolonged stretching to provide easy access to instruments and supplies for the surgeon. Incumbent must be dexterous at passing instruments to surgeons without compromising the principles of aseptic technique, in a manner that requires little or no effort from the surgeon. WORK ENVIRONMENT: Duties are performed in the operating rooms, which require special OR attire and regular exposure to toxic and noxious gases such as methyl-methacrylate and glutaraldehyde; x-rays; pure oxygen; blood and body fluids, which are often infectious; and laser beams requiring special safety precautions. Appropriate scrub attire is required, including sterile gown and gloves, surgical caps to cover incumbent's hair, surgical mask, or special attire such as a "space helmet" or hood used during total joint replacements in order to maintain an aseptic environment. Incumbent must wear protective eyewear such as goggles or a face shield to prevent inadvertent splash injuries to his or her eyes. Appropriate laser glasses must be worn when working with lasers. The incumbent must frequently wear a 20-30-pound lead apron to protect against radiation during various procedures. Required personal protective equipment is provided by the facility. The operating room work environment is complex, intense, and fast-paced. Good mental and emotional health is required in order to function at an optimum level. For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at #J-18808-Ljbffr