Become a Field Examiner for the Department of Veterans Affairs
Are you looking for a career that combines investigative rigor with a profound sense of service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring for the position of Field Examiner. This role is not just a government job; it is a vital safeguard for the financial independence and well-being of Veterans and their families who may be unable to manage their own funds. If you have a background in social services, law enforcement, or financial management, this could be your next professional chapter.
Job Responsibilities
As a Field Examiner, you are the eyes and ears of the VA in the field. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Conducting Field Investigations: Traveling to the residences of beneficiaries to assess their living conditions and mental/physical capacity.
- Fiduciary Oversight: Identifying and appointing appropriate fiduciaries to manage funds for minors or incompetent beneficiaries.
- Investigating Misuse: Reviewing cases involving fraud, abuse, or embezzlement of VA funds.
- Counseling: Explaining complex laws and regulations to beneficiaries and their caregivers.
- Coordinating Services: Collaborating with local law enforcement and social service agencies to ensure Veteran safety.
Requirements
To be considered, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Driver's License: You must possess a valid, active driver's license, as travel is a core requirement.
- Background: Must be able to pass a rigorous background check.
- Experience: Candidates must have at least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level or equivalent education.
Comparison Table: Qualifications by Grade
| Factor | GS-09 | GS-11 |
|---|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | Equivalent to GS-07 | Equivalent to GS-09 |
| Education (PhD) | N/A | 3 Years Grad Study |
| Education (Masters) | 2 Years Grad Study | N/A |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position ranges from $61,722 to $97,087 per year, commensurate with your grade level and qualifications. This position also offers a clear promotion path to the GS-11 level.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Federal retirement pension plan and TSP contributions.
- Opportunities for remote work where applicable, though this is a mobile, field-based position.
Application Tips
- Edit Down: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages. The system is strict.
- Specify Details: Clearly state start/end dates and grade levels for all federal experience.
- Formatting: Use a standard, readable font like Lato or Arial.
- Documents: Upload your SF-50 and transcripts as PDFs to ensure they are readable by HR.
Serving as a Field Examiner is a unique opportunity to use your professional skills to provide security and peace of mind to Veterans. If you are ready to start a meaningful career with the Department of Veterans Affairs, review your qualifications and submit your application today.
Why This Field Examiner Job Matters
Protect the legacy and financial future of our nation's heroes as a Field Examiner with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Field Examiner Job Overview
The Veterans Benefits Administration is seeking dedicated professionals for the Field Examiner role. In this critical position, you will serve as a protector of Veteran interests, ensuring that those unable to manage their own affairs—due to mental, physical, or legal disabilities—receive the support, protection, and benefits they deserve. This mobile, field-based role involves conducting site visits, performing investigations, and appointing fiduciary support to ensure the welfare of our beneficiaries.
Requirements for Field Examiner
- U.S. Citizenship
- Valid state driver's license
- Must be able to pass a background investigation
- Must be able to perform mobile work involving regular travel
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 (for GS-09) or GS-09 (for GS-11) level
- Ability to complete a one-year probationary period
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Field Examiner
- Advanced graduate degrees in Criminal Justice, Social Work, or Counseling
- Experience in financial management or budgeting for individuals
- Proven background in investigating fraud, abuse, or contested claims
- Ability to interpret and apply complex Federal or State laws and regulations
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Defined benefit pension plan
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with government matching
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and promotion within the VBA
- ✓Public Service Loan Forgiveness program eligibility
💡 How to Apply Field Examiner Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Field Examiner Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Gather your transcripts and most recent non-award SF-50 (if applicable).
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Click the apply button to answer the assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents in PDF format.
- Monitor your email for potential USA Hire assessment invitations.
- Submit your complete application package before the August 31, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure you meet the two-page requirement.
- Quantify your accomplishments; instead of listing duties, highlight your results.
- Ensure your SF-50 documents clearly show your time-in-grade eligibility if you are a current federal employee.
- Save your resume and documents as PDFs to maintain formatting.
- Check your spam folder regularly for communications from the agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this is a mobile role. You will frequently travel to customer homes or other sites, which may involve driving long distances and requiring overnight stays.
What is the maximum resume length?
To comply with the Merit Hiring Plan, all resumes must be two pages or fewer. Applications with longer resumes will be automatically disqualified.
Can I substitute education for experience?
Yes, graduate education in fields like Social Work, Counseling, or Criminal Justice can often be used to qualify for these grades, either independently or in combination with experience.
Is this a remote job?
This position is considered 'mobile.' You will spend significant time traveling to conduct field work, not sitting at a traditional desk.
What is the closing date?
The announcement closes on August 31, 2026.
Job from Veterans Benefits Administration
The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) is a cornerstone of the Department of Veterans Affairs, dedicated to honoring President Lincoln’s promise to support those who have served our nation. Our culture is defined by the "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. As an employee, you join a mission-driven organization where your work directly impacts the lives of America’s heroes.