Why do more than 100,000 Veterans come to work at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) every day?
Just like you, these Veterans understand the perspectives of those who have earned the benefits and health services that VA provides. You and your fellow Veterans bring unique insight and experience that is vital to our ability to deliver world-class services to those who have served.
What job is right for you? Whatever your military specialty, there’s a place for you at VA.
Careers tailor-made for Veterans
When you come to work at VA, you can continue your public service in a variety of roles.
For military corpsmen, medical technicians and combat medics, the Intermediate Care Technician (ICT) Program can put your healthcare skills to work as an integral part of the medical team at a VA Medical Center (VAMC), including in emergency departments, primary care, specialty care and surgical services.
“We all understand each other,” said ICT Randy Snider, an Air Force Veteran. “I may not have the same background as some of my patients, but we all speak a similar language. The Veterans know that I’ll take care of whatever they need, and that I understand.”
VA Police are federal law enforcement officers stationed at VAMCs, Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) and other VA facilities nationwide, embracing the mission of caring for Veterans by protecting patients, employees and visitors who come through VA doors.
“I like serving these guys,” shared Corporal Lee Higginbotham, an Army Veteran. “I hear all kinds of stories from our past Veterans from Vietnam and so forth. I’m able to relate with them a little more than your average civilian who has never served. We talk the same talk.”
Providing vital administrative assistance throughout their facilities, medical support assistants are responsible for screening and greeting Veterans. They are the first faces Veterans see, helping Veterans navigate the system and be in the right place at the right time.
“I attend Veterans. I help them with their appointments. I help them with their needs,” explained David Velazquez, a Veteran who works as a medical support assistant in the Mayagüez VA Outpatient Clinic in Puerto Rico. “We’re the first people that see the Veteran and guide them where they have to go.”
And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Visit USAJOBS now and sort by “Veterans” under the “Who can apply” filter to see what else is available.
Paving the way to a VA career
Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference in hiring for many federal government jobs—including jobs here at VA.
To claim Veterans’ preference, a Veteran must meet the following legal requirements:
- Have been honorably discharged
- Have retired at a rank lower than major or lieutenant commander or have a service-connected disability
It’s important to remember that Veterans’ preference does not guarantee a Veteran will get the job. Rather, we use Veterans’ preference to elevate those Veterans who already to meet job requirements and qualifications. While hiring managers must give priority consideration to qualified Veterans, they still get to decide the best candidate for the job.
Continue serving your country
You served an invaluable role in the military, preserving our nation’s freedom. You can continue your public service by helping Veterans and their families secure the best care possible here at VA. Learn more at VA Careers.
Author: Michelle Weaver