Launch Your Healthcare Career as a Medical Support Assistant in Des Moines

Are you looking for a career that combines administrative excellence with a deep sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Des Moines, Iowa, is currently seeking a highly motivated Medical Support Assistant (MSA) to join our health administration team. This role is not just about paperwork; it is about serving the heroes who have served our nation. If you are organized, compassionate, and ready to make an impact, we invite you to apply.

Job Responsibilities

As a Medical Support Assistant, you will serve as the first point of contact for many Veterans. Your primary duties include:

Coordinating patient appointments, including scheduling, canceling, and rescheduling.
Managing electronic wait lists and monitoring clinic flow.
Verifying and updating patient demographics and insurance information.
Ensuring all encounter forms are complete for accurate workload tracking.
Communicating effectively with physicians, nursing staff, and allied health professionals.
Maintaining strict confidentiality regarding patient health and administrative data.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Education: A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement.
Proficiency: Fluency in written and spoken English.
Security: Successful completion of a background and suitability investigation.
Health Requirements: Participation in the mandatory influenza vaccination program.

Grade Level Determination

The position is filled at the GS-3 through GS-5 level based on your experience and education. Below is a quick guide to understanding the levels:

Level	Education Requirement	Key Focus
GS-3	High School Diploma/GED	Entry-level administrative support
GS-4	1 Year Education above High School	Developmental role, increased autonomy
GS-5	2 Years Education above High School	Full performance level, advanced systems use

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $36,464 to $56,793 annually. Employees are eligible for regular salary increases based on performance and federal pay schedules.

Benefits

Joining the federal workforce provides unparalleled stability and personal benefits. Key highlights include:

Paid Time Off: 13–26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave following the birth or placement of a child.
Retirement: Federal employees receive a traditional pension plan and access to a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching up to 5%.
Insurance: Access to comprehensive, portable health, dental, vision, and life insurance options.

Application Tips

Use the Template: Always use the official Clinical Resume document provided by the VA to ensure your submission is correctly parsed.
Highlight Your Skills: Clearly demonstrate your experience with medical terminology and scheduling systems.
KSA Focus: Write out your responses to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) on a separate document to ensure recruiters see your full potential.
Proofread: Double-check your application for clarity and ensure all attachments are in the correct format before submitting.

Becoming a Medical Support Assistant at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the care of our Veterans. With a supportive work environment, a wide range of federal benefits, and clear paths for professional growth, this role provides the stability and satisfaction you deserve. Apply today to help us continue the vital work of the Veterans Health Administration.

Why This Medical Support Assistant Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in healthcare administration and directly impact the lives of those who served our nation as a Medical Support Assistant at the VA.

Medical Support Assistant Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant to join the team in Des Moines, Iowa. This role is essential to our mission of providing compassionate, world-class healthcare to Veterans. You will manage patient intake, coordinate complex appointment scheduling, and ensure accurate record-keeping across multiple clinical settings. This position offers a stable federal career path with excellent benefits, work-life balance, and the opportunity to grow within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Requirements for Medical Support Assistant

Must be a United States citizen.
Must be proficient in both written and spoken English.
Must pass a background and security investigation.
Must maintain compliance with the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Must complete a one or two-year trial period.
Must hold a high school diploma, GED, or state-issued proficiency certificate.
Must register with the Selective Service if male and born after 12/31/1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant

Prior experience in medical scheduling or administrative support within a hospital or clinic setting.
Advanced proficiency in office automation software and electronic health record systems.
Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive patient information with total confidentiality.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to assist patients from diverse backgrounds.
Previous experience identifying and resolving customer service concerns efficiently.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases.
✓Generous paid time off (up to 50 days total annually including leave and holidays).
✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs.
✓Comprehensive retirement packages, including a federal pension and 401(k) with agency matching.
✓Childcare subsidy programs for eligible families.

💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant Job

Create or log into your account on the official federal employment portal.
Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume document.
Upload your primary resume and any necessary supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50, etc.).
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package before the closing date of July 16, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Use the provided standard resume template to ensure your application meets all formatting requirements.
Explicitly address each Knowledge, Skill, and Ability (KSA) listed in the job announcement within your supporting documents.
Double-check that all uploaded documents, especially transcripts or certifications, are legible and current.
Submit early to avoid technical issues or potential errors on the closing date.
Review your status periodically through your applicant dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary ranges from $36,464 to $56,793 per year, depending on the grade level qualification (GS-3 through GS-5).

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation assistance or Permanent Change of Station (PCS) incentives are not authorized for this vacancy.

Can I work remotely?

No, this is an onsite position requiring daily attendance at the VA Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

Is this a remote position?

*A: No, this is an onsite position based at the Des Moines, IA VAMC.*

Do I need a medical license?

*A: No, this role is an administrative support function and does not require clinical licensure.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional healthcare that improves their health and well-being. By working with the VA Central Iowa Health Care System, you become part of a multi-campus network dedicated to primary care, surgery, behavioral health, and domiciliary services. We foster a Whole Health System of care that empowers both our employees and our patients.