Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 02/17/2026. You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below: Specialized Experience: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade GS in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Examples of specialized experience would typically include, but are not limited to: Knowledge of asepsis to prepare/protect the sterile field during surgery, knowledge of sterile technique must include sterilizer operations and tests to determine the effectiveness of sterilization, packaging, storage, and shelf life. This includes proper cleaning techniques and the types of cleaning solutions to use on various items, as well as the proper handling and rotation of sterile supplies, handling of contaminated items, and quality control, knowledge of pharmacology including the classification and administration of drugs, patient responses, and common dosages. Must be familiar with dosages and proper use of all medications administered from the sterile field. Must have technical knowledge of the use and effect of anesthesia to recognize the hazards of anesthetic agents and to recognize and respond to adverse conditions during the procedure, skill/flexibility to adjust to new surgical subspecialties and adapt to associated challenges. This may include learning to work with highly sensitive surgical instruments using prescriptive surgical steps, and knowledge of pathology care and handling of specimens correctly are essential for the prevention of, damage to, or loss of specimens. During procedures in which implantable devices are used, must display knowledge and skill necessary for proper handling of prosthesis such as IOL, hernia mesh, fixation devices such as screws and plates, and bone product. OR, Education: Applicants may substitute education for the required experience. To qualify based on education for this grade level you must have successfully completed one-half year of graduate education (9 semester hours) or an internship in course matter that must include courses directly related to the work of the Surgical Technician position such as anatomy and physiology, surgical technology, aseptic techniques, etc. This education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university. NOTE: Transcripts (unofficial or official) must be submitted with your application materials. Education cannot be credited without documentation. OR, Combination: Applicants may also combine education and experience to qualify at this level. You must have an combination of a combination of successfully completed graduate level education and specialized experience, as described above, which meet the total experience requirements for this grade level. The education portion must include graduate courses directly related to the work of the Surgical Technician position. This education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university. NOTE: Transcripts (unofficial or official) must be submitted with your application materials. Education cannot be credited without documentation. For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.