Advance Your Career: Program Specialist - Business Manager at the VA
Are you looking to transition your administrative and operational expertise into a role that serves a noble cause? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently hiring a Program Specialist - Business Manager in Wilmington, Delaware. This role is a unique opportunity to help shape the efficiency and effectiveness of mental health services for those who have defended our country.
Job Responsibilities
The Business Manager plays a vital role in the Mental Health Care Line. Your core duties include:
- Strategic Oversight: Analyze and improve clinical and administrative operations.
- Financial & Contract Management: Act as the Contract Officer Representative, managing purchase cards, travel expenses, and vendor liaison duties.
- Policy Implementation: Translate regional and national policies into local medical center procedures.
- Resource Management: Plan and manage facility space to ensure Veterans receive timely care.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Competency | Focus Level | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Strategic Planning | High | Long and short-range facility goals |
| Budget/Finance | High | Oversight of contracts and procurement |
| Interpersonal Skills | Moderate | Liaising between clinical and non-clinical staff |
| Regulatory Knowledge | High | Joint Commission/CARF compliance |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet specialized experience requirements. Federal employees must hold current 52-week time-in-grade at the GS-09 level for this GS-11 role. A commitment to the influenza vaccination program is mandatory as a condition of employment.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $82,289 to $106,982 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a robust federal benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, a generous pension plan, and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
How to Apply
- Build your resume: Keep it strictly to two pages.
- Check documents: Ensure you have your most recent SF-50 ready.
- Apply via USAJOBS: Follow the link to complete the questionnaire.
- Assessment: Be prepared to spend time on the mandatory online assessment.
Working for the VHA in Wilmington, DE, offers the perfect blend of administrative challenge and meaningful service. If you are ready to apply your management skills to a mission that matters, submit your application package before the closing date. Join a team that honors our nation's heroes every single day.
Why This Program Specialist - Business Manager Job Matters
Advance your career in healthcare administration while directly impacting the lives of America's Veterans in the Wilmington, Delaware area.
Program Specialist - Business Manager Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Program Specialist - Business Manager to join the Mental Health Care Line. In this pivotal role, you will provide executive-level support, resource management, and strategic planning to ensure the delivery of high-quality clinical care. You will serve as a central liaison, overseeing business functions, facility space planning, and acquisition processes to help the VA continue its mission of providing world-class health services to those who have served our nation.
Requirements for Program Specialist - Business Manager
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to meet specialized experience requirements or qualify via education/combination
- Current federal employees must meet 52-week time-in-grade requirements for GS-11
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Program Specialist - Business Manager
- Experience in Joint Commission or CARF accreditation standards
- Strong background in contract management and financial oversight
- Proficiency in clinical and administrative data analysis
- Proven ability to translate high-level agency policy into actionable medical center procedures
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βComprehensive federal health insurance options
- βGenerous paid time off and federal holidays
- βParticipation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- βThrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with employer matching
- βOpportunities for professional development and career advancement
π‘ How to Apply Program Specialist - Business Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Specialist - Business Manager Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, highlighting relevant specialized experience.
- Submit your online application, including the questionnaire and required documents (SF-50, transcripts, etc.).
- Complete the required online assessment when prompted via email or the application portal.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
π‘ General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder for formatting consistency.
- Be specific; do not assume the hiring panel knows your previous duties.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates your 52-week time-in-grade eligibility.
- Double-check that your resume is saved in an accepted file format and is 5MB or smaller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my military service for leave credit?
Yes, VA may offer newly-appointed federal employees credit for job-related non-federal experience or active-duty military service toward annual leave accrual rates.
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is an on-site position located in Wilmington, Delaware.
What happens if I submit a resume longer than two pages?
Per current merit hiring plan requirements, resumes longer than two pages will result in ineligibility for further consideration.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working at the VHA means being part of a mission-driven organization that prioritizes compassionate, whole-health care for millions of Veterans.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Application
- β OPM Qualification Standards
- β VA Benefits Information
- β USAStaffing Application Portal
- β Application Status
- β Education Accreditation Check
- β Foreign Qualifications Recognition
- β Form I-9 Documents
- β Questionnaire Preview
- β USA Hire Resource Center
- β USAJOBS Help Center
- β Resume Page Limit FAQ
- β Career Transition Resources
