Launch Your Healthcare Career as a Medical Support Assistant at Truman VA
Are you looking to transition into a career where your daily work directly impacts the lives of those who served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at the Harry S. Truman VA Medical Center in Columbia, Missouri, is looking for a motivated Medical Support Assistant to join our clinical team.
Role Responsibilities
As a Medical Support Assistant, you are the heartbeat of the clinical administrative process. Your primary duties include:
- Coordinating patient care schedules and optimizing clinic utilization.
- Managing medical records and ensuring data accuracy.
- Interfacing between clinical staff and patients to handle inquiries and appointments.
- Utilizing advanced software programs for scheduling, insurance verification, and documentation.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Requirements | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-3 | Basic education/High school | Foundation & Learning |
| GS-4 | 1 year experience or education | Practical application |
| GS-5 | 1 year experience or 2 years education | Advanced clinical coordination |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. Citizens, maintain proficiency in English, and pass a pre-employment physical. All employees must also adhere to the VA's influenza vaccination requirements.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary of $38,237 - $62,430 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides one of the most comprehensive benefit packages in the nation, including:
- Leave: Up to 50 days of total annual leave/sick leave/holidays.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401k matching.
- Health: Access to top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Family Support: Parental leave and childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the standard Clinical Resume document when applying for VA positions.
- Be Specific: Detail your past experience with customer service or data entry in your resume.
- Deadline Matters: Submit your application before 11:59 PM (ET) on August 12, 2026.
Join us in Columbia, Missouri—a city ranked for its quality of life—and start a career that offers both stability and purpose. Apply today to become a vital part of the VA mission.
Why This Medical Support Assistant Job Matters
Join the Truman VA team in Columbia, Missouri, and play a vital role in delivering compassionate, world-class healthcare to the Veterans who have served our nation.
Medical Support Assistant Job Overview
The Harry S. Truman VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant to join our interdisciplinary team. In this position, you will serve as a crucial point of contact for patients and clinical staff, managing administrative workflows, scheduling appointments, and ensuring that our Veterans receive timely, high-quality care. This is an exceptional opportunity to launch a rewarding career in federal service while making a tangible difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed for our country.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
- Subject to background and security investigations
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant
- Experience in a clinical or medical office environment
- Demonstrated ability to navigate complex scheduling software
- Strong interpersonal skills for interacting with diverse patient populations
- Proficiency with MS Office and electronic health record systems
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of annual paid leave (including holidays and sick time)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional Federal pension plan
- ✓Federal 401K with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible full-time employees
- ✓Career development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and required documentation list.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume document provided via the VA Careers link.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire through the application portal.
- Upload all necessary documents, including your resume, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference documentation.
- Submit your application package by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) mentioned in the job post.
- Use the provided standard resume template to ensure all necessary information is captured.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
- Proofread all documents to avoid disqualification due to errors or omissions.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary range for this position is $38,237 to $62,430 per year, depending on the grade level and specific qualifications of the selectee.
Is telework available for this role?
No, this is an onsite position and is not eligible for telework.
Do I need prior medical experience to apply?
While specific experience is beneficial for higher grade levels (GS-4 and GS-5), there is no minimum experience required for the entry-level GS-3 position, provided you meet the educational requirements.
What if I have gaps in my employment?
The VA is committed to helping those who have experienced financial hardship or unemployment and will not deny employment solely based on these factors.
Is there promotion potential?
Yes, this position has a promotion potential up to the GS-5 level.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing comprehensive care to over 9 million Veterans. The Truman VA Medical Center acts as a cornerstone of healthcare in mid-Missouri, serving 40,000 Veterans with high-level care in specialized fields including cardiology, surgery, and mental health.