Become a Program Support Assistant with the Department of Veterans Affairs
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative excellence with a noble purpose? The South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) is currently hiring a Program Support Assistant to join the Patient Advocate Office. This position offers a unique opportunity to directly support the Veterans who have served our nation while developing your professional skills within a dynamic federal environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Program Support Assistant, your day will be split between high-level administrative coordination and patient-centered clerical support. Key duties include:
- Administrative Support: Managing calendars for service chiefs, screening calls, prioritizing mail, and maintaining complex departmental files.
- Timekeeping: Serving as a primary timekeeper, managing leave requests, and auditing timecards.
- Patient Interaction: Greeting visitors, triaging urgent concerns, and handling distressed callers with professionalism and empathy.
- Data Management: Utilizing the PATS-R system for feedback, generating reports, and maintaining accurate records while strictly adhering to HIPAA and privacy regulations.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-04 level or higher.
- Ability to clear a security and background investigation.
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Salary and Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $41,334 – $53,735 |
| Location | San Antonio, Texas |
| Grade Level | GS-05 |
| Appointment Type | Permanent |
Benefits
Federal employment comes with a suite of benefits designed to support your long-term success. Employees enjoy access to federal health insurance, retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), generous vacation and sick leave, and federal holidays. The VA also promotes professional growth through continuous training and development programs.
Application Tips
- Respect the Resume Limit: Federal agencies, including the VA, are enforcing a strict two-page resume limit. Focus on recent and relevant experience.
- Be Specific: Do not assume the hiring team knows your previous duties. Explicitly state the number of hours worked per week for every position.
- Follow Directions: Ensure all requested documents, such as your transcript (if using education to qualify) and SF-50s, are uploaded correctly.
If you are a organized, detail-oriented individual with a passion for customer service and a desire to help Veterans, this role is an excellent next step in your federal career. Prepare your application materials carefully, highlight your relevant experience, and apply before the July 24, 2026, closing date to be considered for this vital position.
Why This Program Support Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country by joining the Patient Advocate Office team in San Antonio.
Program Support Assistant Job Overview
The South Texas Veterans Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Program Support Assistant to serve as the heartbeat of the Patient Advocate Office. In this role, you will be instrumental in ensuring that Veterans, their families, and visitors receive compassionate, efficient, and high-quality administrative support, directly contributing to our mission of honoring those who served.
Requirements for Program Support Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must undergo and pass a background and security investigation.
- Complete a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
- Mandatory participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must complete all required online assessments as instructed.
- Possession of a valid, REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
Preferred Qualifications for Program Support Assistant
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-04 level or equivalent.
- Four years of education above high school in an accredited business, secretarial, or technical program.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and office administrative tools.
- Proven ability to manage high-volume correspondence and busy executive calendars.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and experience handling sensitive or distressed inquiries.
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced medical environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid leave (vacation and sick time) and federal holidays.
- ✓Competitive federal retirement plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Potential for telework opportunities based on agency policy.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training within the VA system.
💡 How to Apply Program Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Support Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, focusing on relevant experience and clear dates/hours.
- Submit your application and all required documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
- Complete the required online assessments within the timeframe specified in your email notification.
- Track your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the VA enforces a strict two-page limit.
- Ensure your resume includes specific hours worked per week and detailed dates for every position listed.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for the best results.
- Check your email frequently, as you will receive important instructions and assessment links.
- Save all documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for experience?
Yes, you may qualify with four years of education above high school in an accredited program, or a combination of experience and education.
Is telework allowed for this position?
Telework may be authorized, but eligibility is subject to the needs of the office and will be discussed during the interview process.
What is the significance of the two-page resume limit?
As of September 2025, the VA enforces this limit to ensure recruiters can efficiently review applications. Resumes exceeding this length will cause disqualification.
How are assessments handled?
Applicants must complete a mandatory online assessment. You will receive an email with a unique link upon submission of your initial application.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our military and their families. The STVHCS serves as a pillar of support for over 114,000 Veterans across 35 counties. With state-of-the-art facilities like the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital, the system provides comprehensive primary and specialized medical care. By joining this team, you become part of an organization dedicated to integrity, advocacy, and excellence.