Lead Financial Strategy at the West Texas VA Health Care System
Are you a financial expert with a passion for public service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for an experienced professional to fill the role of Assistant Chief Financial Officer (ACFO) at the West Texas VA Health Care System in Big Spring, Texas. This is a high-impact role designed for leaders who want to use their fiscal expertise to support those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant Chief Financial Officer, you will act as a primary advisor to the CFO, playing a key role in the daily management of financial operations. Your core duties will include:
- Budget Formulation: Assisting in the preparation, assembly, and justification of the annual budget.
- Financial Oversight: Monitoring cost records and ensuring compliance with Veterans Equitable Resource Allocation (VERA) guidelines.
- Strategic Analysis: Analyzing financial data to identify trends and reporting findings to executive management.
- Operational Improvement: Conducting internal audits and refining payroll and travel processes for efficiency.
Comparison of Financial Roles
| Feature | Junior Analyst | Assistant CFO | CFO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strategic Scope | Task-Specific | Agency-Wide | Executive Direction |
| Decision Making | Tactical | Managerial | Institutional |
| Focus | Reporting | Policy & Oversight | Vision & Strategy |
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, candidates must meet rigorous professional and educational standards, including:
- Education: A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related business field with at least 24 semester hours of accounting coursework.
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience at the GS-12 level (or private sector equivalent) involving budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.
- Assessments: Completion of the Supervisory Situational Judgment Test (SSJT).
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $106,437 to $138,370 per year, commensurate with qualifications and local federal salary schedules.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy robust benefits, including:
- Extensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Flexible scheduling and potential ad hoc telework options.
- Comprehensive retirement packages.
- Paid annual and sick leave, with service credit possibilities for vacation accrual.
Application Tips
- Keep it Brief: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure compliance.
- Be Detailed: Clearly define your duties, start and end dates, and hours worked per week for every job listed.
- Document Everything: Ensure all transcripts and certifications are attached before hitting submit.
Serving as an Assistant Chief Financial Officer at the VA offers the unique opportunity to combine high-level financial stewardship with a noble cause. If you meet the criteria and are ready to advance your career, apply by the closing date to join our team in Big Spring.
Why This Assistant Chief Financial Officer Job Matters
Advance your career in financial leadership while honoring those who served. Join the Veterans Health Administration as an Assistant Chief Financial Officer in Big Spring, Texas.
Assistant Chief Financial Officer Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is seeking a highly skilled financial leader to serve as an Assistant Chief Financial Officer at the West Texas VA Health Care System. This role is pivotal in managing an integrated financial program, overseeing complex budgets, and providing strategic financial advisory services to senior leadership. As a key partner in our mission, you will ensure fiscal integrity while supporting the delivery of compassionate, world-class healthcare to our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Assistant Chief Financial Officer
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period is required.
- Must hold a Bachelor's or higher degree in accounting, or a related field (business, finance, public administration) with at least 24 semester hours in accounting/auditing.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to at least the GS-12 grade level.
- Must complete an online Supervisory Situational Judgment Test.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant Chief Financial Officer
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certification.
- Extensive experience in managing integrated financial programs including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.
- Demonstrated ability to provide technical advisory services to senior management.
- Proven track record in coordinating payroll and travel oversight for large organizations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Predictable work scheduling with work-life balance focus.
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Potential for recruitment and relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Assistant Chief Financial Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant Chief Financial Officer Job
- Log in to or create your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Attach all required transcripts and, if applicable, professional certifications (CPA/CIA).
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date of August 18, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for all positions.
- Align your resume language directly with the competencies listed in the job announcement.
- Use a clean, sans-serif font and 0.5-inch margins for your resume.
- Save your documents in PDF format to ensure consistent formatting.
- Double-check your eligibility for veterans' preference and attach appropriate documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework allowed for this position?
Yes, ad hoc telework (occasional, non-recurring) may be authorized and will be discussed during the interview process.
What is the importance of the two-page resume limit?
Federal regulations now require resumes for this position to be no longer than two pages to comply with the Merit Hiring Plan. Resumes exceeding this limit will result in automatic disqualification.
Are there residency requirements?
Yes, this is not a virtual position. Candidates must reside within or be willing to relocate to a commutable distance of Big Spring, Texas.
What if I have foreign education?
You must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency to be considered.
Is there a drug test?
While security investigations are required, drug testing is not specifically noted as a prerequisite for this role.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the agency operates with a mission-driven culture where every employee contributes to the well-being of our heroes. Working for the VA means more than just a paycheck; it is a commitment to excellence, compassion, and professional growth.