Launch Your Healthcare Career as a Medical Support Assistant at the St. Cloud VA
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative expertise with a meaningful mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring dedicated individuals to serve as Medical Support Assistants (MSAs) for the Community Care department at the St. Cloud VA Health Care System. This position offers more than just a paycheck; it provides an opportunity to support the brave men and women who have served our nation.
About the St. Cloud VA
Since 1924, the St. Cloud VA Health Care System (VAHCS) has served as a beacon of excellence in central Minnesota. Providing compassionate care to over 38,000 Veterans annually, the system operates not only in St. Cloud but also through Community Based Outpatient Clinics in Alexandria, Brainerd, and Montevideo. Joining our team means committing to a Whole Health approach, focusing on personalized care plans that empower Veterans to achieve their health goals.
Job Responsibilities
As an MSA in Community Care, you are the bridge between the Veteran, community medical providers, and the VA clinical team. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Scheduling Management: Coordinating outpatient appointments, inpatient surgeries, and diagnostic tests across various specialties.
- Consult Monitoring: Tracking consults from the initial referral through to the receipt of medical results.
- Communication: Acting as a primary point of contact for Veterans and their families, ensuring they understand pre-appointment requirements.
- Record Integrity: Maintaining accurate, up-to-date patient records and utilizing specialized software to ensure data privacy and accuracy.
- Team Collaboration: Participating in clinical huddles and working closely with nurses and providers to streamline care delivery.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: A high school diploma or GED is required.
- Language: Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Background: Ability to pass a federal security investigation.
- Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position is open at the GS-3 through GS-5 levels. Your final salary will be determined based on your experience and educational background upon selection.
| Level | Role Focus | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-3 | Entry Level | Basic requirements |
| GS-4 | Developmental | 1 year of experience or 1 year of education above high school |
| GS-5 | Full Performance | 1 year of experience or 2 years of education above high school |
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a robust suite of benefits designed to support your work-life balance and long-term security. These include comprehensive health insurance, competitive retirement contributions, paid vacation, and sick leave, as well as opportunities for professional growth within the federal system.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume template. Use it to avoid missing essential formatting requirements.
- Be Thorough: Do not leave gaps in your work history. Include volunteer work, internships, and service-based roles.
- Transcripts: If your application relies on your education to qualify for a higher grade, ensure your transcripts are uploaded with your initial package.
If you are ready to apply your organizational skills to a noble cause, the St. Cloud VA is the place to be. Apply today to help us provide exceptional care to our nation's Veterans.
Why This Medical Support Assistant-Community Care Job Matters
Make a difference in the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the St. Cloud VA Health Care System as a Medical Support Assistant in our Community Care department.
Medical Support Assistant-Community Care Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant (MSA) to serve at the St. Cloud VA Health Care System in Minnesota. This role is pivotal in coordinating patient care and treatment through the Community Care referral process, ensuring that Veterans receive timely and compassionate health services. As an MSA, you will be the backbone of our administrative clinical support, managing complex scheduling needs, facilitating communication between medical teams, and ensuring that our patients' journeys through the healthcare system are seamless.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant-Community Care
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Completion of a background and security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent certificate
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Successful completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant-Community Care
- At least one year of experience in medical scheduling
- Specific experience within a Community Care environment
- Demonstrated ability to navigate complex electronic health record systems
- Advanced proficiency in medical terminology
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Robust retirement plans including FERS
- ✓Ongoing professional development and training
- ✓Opportunities for advancement within the VA system
💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant-Community Care Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant-Community Care Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and questionnaire requirements.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50 if applicable, diploma/GED).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all required documents, ensuring the standard Clinical Resume is included.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of August 6, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure you document both paid and volunteer experience.
- Double-check that you have uploaded a transcript if you are using education to qualify for a higher GS grade.
- Use the provided standard resume template linked in the requirements to avoid document issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary for the Medical Support Assistant role ranges from $40,274 to $65,755 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Saint Cloud, Minnesota, and is not eligible for telework.
What kind of experience do I need?
While no specific experience is required for the entry-level GS-3, higher grades require progressively responsible experience in medical support or equivalent education.
Can I work from home?
No, this position requires you to be physically present at the Saint Cloud facility.
What if I don't have medical office experience?
You may still qualify for entry-level positions based on your high school education. Highlight any customer service experience you possess.