Lead Healthcare Excellence as an Associate Director at the VA
Are you a dedicated healthcare executive looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) at the Fort Harrison VA Medical Center is currently accepting applications for the role of Health Systems Administrator (Associate Director).
Job Responsibilities
The Associate Director serves as a key member of the executive leadership team. Responsibilities include:
- Exercising line authority for administrative and allied health services.
- Managing facility operations, including maintenance and space planning.
- Acting as the Medical Center Director during their absence.
- Developing short- and long-range strategic plans to meet VHA objectives.
- Ensuring fiscal responsibility and regulatory compliance.
Comparison of Competencies
| Competency | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Financial Management | Budget preparation and fiscal oversight |
| Human Capital | Team leadership and workforce planning |
| Administration | Policy development and reporting systems |
| Strategic Planning | Improving patient care delivery |
Requirements
Applicants must meet all federal requirements by the closing date. This includes:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Experience: One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level.
- Time-In-Grade: Current federal employees must demonstrate 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade.
- Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is required.
Salary and Benefits
The position is classified as a GS-15, offering a competitive annual salary ranging from $147,945 to $192,331. Employees receive a robust federal benefits package, including comprehensive health, retirement, and leave options.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, keep your resume concise (two-page limit). Prioritize relevant accomplishments and use the USAJOBS resume builder to maintain the required formatting. Always double-check that your SF-50 forms clearly show your grade and tenure.
This is an exceptional opportunity to utilize your executive management skills in a high-impact environment. If you are ready to lead and serve, apply through the USAJOBS portal before August 21, 2026.
Why This Health Systems Administrator (Associate Director) Job Matters
Shape the future of Veteran healthcare by serving as an Associate Director at the VA Medical Center in Fort Harrison, Montana.
Health Systems Administrator (Associate Director) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated and visionary leader to serve as the Associate Medical Center Director. This executive role involves overseeing administrative and allied health services, managing facility operations, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, compassionate care to our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Health Systems Administrator (Associate Director)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
- Must complete a mandatory 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
- Proof of seasonal influenza vaccination is required for all healthcare personnel.
- Must meet Time-In-Grade requirements (52 weeks at GS-14 level).
- Must provide valid, REAL ID-compliant identification.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Systems Administrator (Associate Director)
- Expertise in managing large healthcare budgets and federal procurement.
- Demonstrated success in leading process improvement initiatives like Lean or Six Sigma.
- Extensive background in human capital management, including workforce planning and recruitment.
- Strong record of facility management, including space planning and regulatory compliance.
- Visionary leadership experience within complex, cross-functional healthcare environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βComprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- βGenerous paid leave, including annual and sick leave.
- βFederal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
- βOpportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
- βWork-life balance with telework potential.
π‘ How to Apply Health Systems Administrator (Associate Director) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Systems Administrator (Associate Director) Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Review your resume to ensure it complies with the two-page limit requirement.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including your most recent SF-50 and transcripts if applicable.
- Submit your final package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on August 21, 2026.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates your one-year time-in-grade eligibility.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
- Focus your resume on results-oriented language relevant to the GS-15 level.
- Check your application status regularly via the USAJOBS portal.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder for best results and compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a virtual position, though telework may be authorized based on local policy and interview discussions.
What is the maximum length for my resume?
Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must be two pages or less to be considered for this federal position.
What if I have gaps in my employment?
The VA does not penalize candidates for past financial hardships or unemployment.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, resumes exceeding two pages will result in disqualification under the current Merit Hiring Plan.
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 the military. As a member of the VHA leadership team, you will contribute to an organization that prioritizes compassionate, whole-health care for our nation's heroes and their families.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Application
- β Apply Online
- β Application Status
- β OPM Qualification Standards
- β Accreditation Verification
- β Foreign Qualifications Recognition
- β I-9 Acceptable Documents
- β VA Benefits Information
- β Resume Page Limit Guidance
- β Merit Hiring Plan Guidance
- β ICTAP/CTAP Information
- β Preview Questionnaire
