Launch Your Administrative Career with the Miami VA Healthcare System

Are you looking to transition into a stable federal role where your organizational skills directly benefit those who have served our nation? The Miami VA Healthcare System, specifically at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center, is hiring a Secretary (OA) to provide administrative backbone to our Social Work Service.

Job Responsibilities

The Secretary (OA) serves as the primary administrative point of contact for the Social Work Service. Your day-to-day will involve:

Administrative Management: Maintaining calendars, scheduling meetings, and preparing agendas.
Timekeeping: Serving as the lead timekeeper to ensure accurate leave tracking.
Correspondence: Drafting, reviewing, and managing professional communications.
Records Maintenance: Organizing and maintaining secure files and retrieval systems.
Operational Support: Coordinating supplies, equipment orders, and acting as a technical liaison.

Requirements

To be eligible, you must meet specific federal standards:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Documentation: Submission of an SF-50 demonstrating time-in-grade is required for current/former federal employees.
Assessment: Applicants must complete an online competency-based assessment.
Compliance: Must adhere to the VA’s seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Comparison of Qualifications

Qualification Type	Minimum Standard
Experience	Equivalent to GS-4 level experience
Education	Bachelor's Degree or 4 years post-high school
Combined	Partial experience and education

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $43,384 to $56,399 per year. Beyond the paycheck, federal employees enjoy:

Exceptional health, dental, and vision insurance.
The Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
Work-life balance with a standard Monday-Friday schedule.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position requires meticulous attention to detail.

Respect the Page Limit: Resumes must be two pages or less. Use the USAJOBS builder to ensure you hit all necessary points.
Be Specific: Detail your past responsibilities clearly. Don't leave it to the hiring manager to guess your experience level.
Formatting Matters: Upload as a PDF. Use clear, sans-serif fonts to make your resume readable for automated systems.

If you possess strong clerical skills and a heart for service, this role at the Miami VA Healthcare System offers a unique opportunity to build a career in the federal sector while supporting our Veterans. Prepare your application, ensure your documentation is complete, and take the next step in your professional journey today.

Why This Secretary (Oa) Job Matters

Launch a meaningful career supporting those who served our nation by joining the Miami VA Healthcare System team as a Secretary.

Secretary (Oa) Job Overview

The Miami VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated and organized professional to serve as a Secretary (OA) within our Social Work Service. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive administrative, clerical, and programmatic support to ensure the efficient operation of our mission-critical healthcare services. You will act as a key liaison, managing schedules, coordinating technical operations, and ensuring top-tier service for our Veterans, their families, and internal staff.

Requirements for Secretary (Oa)

U.S. Citizenship
Ability to complete all required application steps and questionnaires
Completion of an online assessment
Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959
Submission of required SF-50 forms for current/former Federal employees
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Must undergo a background/security investigation
Successful completion of a probationary or trial period

Preferred Qualifications for Secretary (Oa)

Proven experience in administrative support and clerical duties
Strong proficiency in timekeeping and records management
Expertise in managing complex scheduling for leadership
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
Ability to develop professional presentations, graphs, and layouts
Demonstrated reliability in handling confidential correspondence and meeting minutes

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and pay schedule
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
✓Paid annual and sick leave
✓Federal holiday leave
✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth
✓Life and long-term care insurance programs

💡 How to Apply Secretary (Oa) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Secretary (Oa) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Review the full job announcement and requirements.
Prepare your resume (maximum two pages).
Complete the online questionnaire and required assessments.
Upload all necessary documentation, including SF-50s and transcripts.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to comply with federal requirements.
Clearly define your work experience with job titles, duties, and specific hours worked per week.
Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting is preserved.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder tool for better compliance.
Double-check that you have attached all required SF-50s showing time-in-grade.
Submit well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline to avoid technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of this position?

The Secretary (OA) provides essential administrative and clerical support to the Social Work Service at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center.

Is this a remote or telework position?

No, this is an onsite position located in Miami, Florida, and is not eligible for telework.

Are there specific education requirements?

You can qualify through experience, education (Bachelor's degree or 4 years of post-high school education), or a combination of both.

What is the application deadline?

*A: The current closing date is August 14, 2026.*

Is a physical exam required?

*A: No, a pre-placement physical is not required for this role.*

Will I need to undergo a background check?

*A: Yes, all selected applicants are subject to a background and security investigation.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for our Veterans. The Miami VA Healthcare System is a center of excellence, providing tertiary care to Veterans across South Florida. From research to specialized clinical services, our facilities are at the forefront of whole-person healthcare. Working here means joining a mission-driven team where your daily tasks contribute to a higher purpose.