Biomedical Engineer

This is a multi-level position for a Staff Biomedical Engineer within the SPARK M MATSUNAGA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MEDICAL CENTER in Kapolei, Hawaii. The incumbent will be in a developmental status that is somewhat self-directed. The Staff Biomedical Engineer will report directly to the Chief Biomedical Engineer. The incumbent assists with design, development and implementation of a comprehensive healthcare facility (HCF).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. Must be proficient in spoken and written English.

The work requires the application of engineering concepts and methodology to investigate problems and phenomena of living systems, in order to advance the understanding of these systems and to improve medical practices. In addition, the work involves the development and/or deployment of] materials, instruments, diagnostic and therapeutic devices, other equipment applicable to the study of living systems, and to the practice of medicine to improve healthcare delivery within VHA. Biomedical Engineering work requires knowledge and skill in multiple engineering disciplines and specialized subject matter expertise in areas such as computer applications, electronics, mathematics, along with a background in human anatomy and physiology.
Grade Determinations: To qualify for the GS-09 level, Applicants must have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level, directly related to the position to be filled. GS-09 Candidates must possess all of the following:

• 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.

To qualify for the GS-11 level, Applicants must have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level, directly related to the position to be filled. GS-11 Candidates must possess all of the following:

• 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.

To qualify for the GS-12 level, Applicants must have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level, directly related to the position to be filled. GS-12 Candidates must possess all of the following:

• 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.

References: VA Handbook 5005/130, Part II, Appendix G38 - Biomedical Engineer Qualification Standard. 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: Work involves standing, walking, stooping, bending, climbing stairs, and frequently working in cramped spaces for prolonged periods. The employee continually lifts from 10 to 40 pounds and occasionally objects weighing in excess of 40 pounds. The work also involves coping with complex, persistent demands from a variety of sources that can be regarded as a high pressure.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.
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 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.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).Employment Type: FULL_TIME