Occupational Audiologist

Duties

Flexibility and mobility are required for this position to perform occupational audiology services, physical exam audiology support, consultation, and oversight of the Hearing Readiness and Preservation (HRP) Program at all FHCC worksites, the Naval Station, Great Lakes, and a twelve state Area of Responsibility for Occupational Health assigned by Navy Medicine East. The primary role of the incumbent is HRP audiometric testing, oversight and management. Incumbent is responsible for overseeing hearing loss prevention programs, providing occupational audiology care and services within FHCC healthcare facilities, and conducting direct, proactive prevention outreach efforts with local line/tenant commands. The incumbent provides overarching Hearing Conservation and hearing loss prevention program guidance and facilitates program implementation and noise-induced hearing loss mitigation through direct collaboration with line Commanders, Safety Managers, allied health professionals, supervisors, and noise-exposed workers. Incumbent performs oversight of health technician-delivered occupational hearing health care within the Branch Health Clinics, including oversight of audiometric support for Physical Exams.

• Provides audiometric testing, independent management and oversight of local HPR Programs and hearing loss prevention efforts.
• Conducts technical surveys, program reviews, evaluations, and consultations dealing with occupational hearing loss, hearing protection, hearing conservation and environmental noise control/mitigation.
• Provides data and reports to FHCC and local commands regarding HRP Program compliance, Significant Threshold Shifts (STS) rates, and other permanent program metrics.
• Works collaboratively with line/tenant command leaders/Safety Managers, and with medical command allied health professionals and with individual noise-exposed employees to improve program statistics, reduce occupational hearing loss and implement sound, innovative hearing loss prevention strategies.
• Provides outreach prevention services and consultative support to FHCC and local/regional commands through ongoing work site visits and collaboration with line/tenant, industrial hygienist, occupational medicine specialist and safety managers.
• Conducts command HRP evaluations and program enrollee medical record reviews; monitoring HRP compliance data and trend analyses.
• Reports program outcome data to command leadership and facilitating resolutions to negative findings.
• Conducts hearing protection fittings/consultations.
• Provides command-specific education and training programs.
• Performs medical clinic assist visits and hearing conservation technician proficiency reviews.
• Ensures completion of daily audiometer calibrations and scheduled audiometer calibration by the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center.
• Establishes and maintains a database registry of information related to noise and hearing measurement in order to permit accurate decisions related to resource allocation and effective hearing loss prevention measures.
• Utilizes the audiometric DOEHRS Data Repository (DR) as a research and reference source for documenting progressive hearing loss, investigating worker compensation claims, and evaluating HRP Program success or failure.
• Conducts a variety of hearing conservation training lectures and trains the trainer on various hearing loss prevention topics.
• Conducts the training and certification of hearing conservation and audiometric technicians, as authorized by NMCPHC, to ensure provision of both quality and quantity of hearing conservation services throughout the supporting region or Area of Responsibility (AOR).
• Provides diagnostic audiology care and services, analyzes and investigates incidences of employee hearing loss, performs auditory Fitness for Duty evaluations, and determines appropriate disposition.
• Establishes baseline hearing acuity for individual patients, and re-establishes baseline hearing acuity for patients with hearing loss.
• Identifies and evaluates individuals with hearing disorders in the reception and perception of speech, language, and other acoustic signals to a full range of patient complexity.
• Prepares and reviews information and reports related to hearing measurement, hearing loss intervention, audiometric monitoring, follow-up, referral, diagnostic evaluation, fitness-for-duty evaluation, and compensation claim investigation.
• Conducts ear impressions and provides mold fitting and dispensing of custom hearing protection and communication devices for Aviation and Special Warfare communities.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement: Audiologist
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

RequirementsConditions 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 probationary period.
• Subject to background/security investigation.
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
• Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.

QualificationsBasic Requirements:

• Citizenship: Citizen of the United States.
• Education: Master's degree or its equivalent in audiology or hearing science from an accredited college or university is required.
• Licensure: Full, current, and unrestricted license in a State, Territory, Commonwealth, or the District of Columbia

Grade Determinations: GS12

Experience: In addition to the requirements at the GS-11 level, completion of 1 year of professional experience comparable to the next lower level.

(Note: The requirements for the GS-11 level are completion of 1 year of professional experience as an audiologist equivalent to the next lower level; or 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a doctoral degree; or doctoral degree in audiology, hearing science, or a directly related field)

The candidate must demonstrate the KSAs identified for the assignment:

• Ability to develop coherent treatment strategies;

• Knowledge of clinical services, and the ability to perform them independently;

• Ability to conduct assessments and provide treatment interventions;

• Ability to provide consultation to other health care professionals;

• Knowledge of contemporary audiology practice; and

• Ability to perform functions associated with contemporary audiology scope of practice.

References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G29, Audiologist Qualification Standard dated 08/24/2010.

Physical Requirements: Light lifting/carrying under 15 lbs.; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers; walking; standing; hearing aid permitted; mental & emotional stability; working around machinery. 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.

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. VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employee's credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. 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.

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.

Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.

VISN 12 is committed to fostering and sustaining an environment which celebrates diversity, provides equitable opportunities for employment and promotion, and supports inclusiveness in our culture. Together, we strive to create and maintain working and learning environments that promote professional growth and teamwork, and are inclusive, equitable and welcoming. We embrace our differences as individuals and unite as a team toward a common goal: to serve our nation's Veterans.

If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.

• 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, résumé, 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.

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.

• 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.

• Required Documents

  As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

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

  • License
  • Resume
  • Transcript
  
  
  VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf.
  
  The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to 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
  • Other (1)
  • Other (2)
  • Resume
  • SF-15
  • 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.
  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 03/17/2022 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11403125.

  • 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.
  • 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.
  
  To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
  Agency contact informationLucas WhittenbergerPhone

  (216) 278-1576

  Email

  Lucas.Whittenberger@va.gov

  Address
  Captain James A Lovell Federal Health Care Center
  3001 Greenbay Road
  North Chicago, IL 60064
  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.

• Fair and Transparent

  The Federal hiring process is setup to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
  • Reasonable accommodation policy
  • Financial suitability
  • Selective Service
  • New employee probationary period
  • Signature and false statements
  • Privacy Act
  • Social security number request

Required Documents

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

• License
• Resume
• Transcript

VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf.

The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to 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
• Other (1)
• Other (2)
• Resume
• SF-15
• 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.

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.

HelpThis job is open to

• Federal employees - Excepted service

  Current excepted service federal employees.

• The public

  U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.