Health System Specialist Opportunity with the Washington Army National Guard

Are you a dedicated healthcare professional with a knack for administration and a desire to serve? The Washington Army National Guard is seeking a motivated Health System Specialist to join their team in Camp Murray, Washington. This is a unique opportunity to leverage your expertise in healthcare management within a dynamic military environment, contributing directly to the readiness and well-being of our service members. This permanent, excepted service position offers a competitive salary and a chance to make a significant impact.

About the Agency: Washington Army National Guard

The National Guard stands as the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces, with a proud history of serving communities and the nation. The Washington Army National Guard is committed to providing a strong, ready force that responds to state emergencies and supports national defense missions. As a Military Technician, you become an integral part of this mission, working alongside military members to ensure operational readiness and provide essential support services. The Guard offers a unique blend of civilian career development and military service, fostering a supportive and challenging work environment.

Job Responsibilities: Health System Specialist (GS-0671-9)

As a Health System Specialist, you will be responsible for the oversight, administration, and implementation of a wide array of health-related programs critical to the well-being of National Guard members. Your duties will encompass:

• Program Management: Overseeing programs such as Line of Duty (LOD) Investigations, Incapacitation Pay, Active Duty Medical Extensions (ADME), Medical Disqualification, Medical Claims Processing, and various examination and screening programs (e.g., HIV, Over-40, Weight Control).
• Coordination and Liaison: Collaborating with key organizations including the National Guard Bureau (NGB), Military Medical Support Office (MMSO), Tri-Care, and various medical command and evaluation boards.
• Advisory Role: Serving as the primary advisor to command staff and personnel on health care eligibility, medical readiness, training impacts, and administrative processes like LOD investigations.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Collecting and analyzing health services data to provide statistical reports to leadership, informing decisions on program effectiveness and resource allocation.
• Training and Briefings: Organizing and delivering health services briefings and training sessions for unit readiness workshops, command courses, and other relevant forums.
• Financial Management: Managing funds allocated for health services programs and ensuring proper accounting for expenditures.
• Policy and Guidance: Interpreting regulatory guidance and developing policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to enhance health services program efficiency.
• Supervision: Providing supervision to subordinate staff, including planning work, granting leave, and recommending training and performance standards.

Requirements

To be considered for this Health System Specialist position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

General Experience:

• Work experience demonstrating a foundational understanding of the principles and practices related to managing a health care delivery system.

Specialized Experience:

• A minimum of 24 months of progressively responsible experience in the health care field. This experience should be analytical, administrative, clinical management, or supervisory in nature.
• The work must have involved close collaboration with health care facility managers and included the analysis and/or coordination of administrative, clinical, or service activities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of:
  • Missions, organizations, programs, and requirements of health care delivery systems.
  • Regulations and standards set by various credentialing and regulatory bodies.
  • Government-wide, agency, and facility systems related to budget, personnel, and procurement.

Military Requirements:

• Membership: Must be a member of the Washington Army National Guard.
• Rank: Must hold or be eligible for a military grade of E3 through E5.
• MOS: Applicants need not possess the specific MOS at the time of application but must be assigned to a compatible military position and attain the required MOS (e.g., 68W) within one year of appointment.
• Physical Readiness: Must maintain physical readiness standards.
• Driver's License: Must possess a valid Washington state driver's license and be able to obtain a Government Travel Card.
• Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
• Security Clearance: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Education:

• A High School Diploma or GED is required.
• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Health Administration, Health Care Management, Business Administration, or a closely related field may substitute for some specialized experience, as detailed in the full announcement.

Salary Overview

This Health System Specialist position is classified at the GS-9 grade level. The annual salary ranges from $69,373 to $90,190, depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

While specific benefits are detailed by the agency, federal positions typically offer a comprehensive package, which may include:

• Health Insurance: Access to Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
• Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual and sick leave accrual, plus federal holidays.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and career advancement.
• Unique Service Opportunity: The chance to serve your state and country within the National Guard.

Note: Military Technicians may have specific conditions regarding other incentives like bonuses or student loan repayment.

Application Process and Tips

Applying for this position requires careful attention to detail to ensure your application package is complete and competitive.

How to Apply:

1. USAJOBS Account: Ensure you have an active USAJOBS account. If not, create one.
2. Online Application: Complete the online application form accurately.
3. Resume: Prepare a detailed resume, written in your own words, not exceeding two pages. It must include contact information, full name, email, phone, relevant work history (dates, hours per week, duties, series/grade for federal jobs), and omit extended leave.
4. Required Documents: Upload all specified documents, including your resume and Mil Form 174. Other documents like DD-214 or SF-50 may be required based on your circumstances.
5. Submission: Submit your complete application package by the closing date: September 25, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.

Application Tips:

• Read Thoroughly: Review the entire vacancy announcement carefully for all requirements and instructions.
• Detail Your Experience: Provide specific examples and details in your resume to demonstrate how you meet the general and specialized experience requirements. Avoid generic statements.
• Use Your Own Words: Ensure your resume is written in your own words; verbatim text from the announcement will not be considered.
• Accuracy: Verify that all information provided in your application and resume is accurate and truthful.
• Timeliness: Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
• Verification: After submission, check your USAJOBS account for application status updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question
What is the salary range for this position?
The annual salary for this Health System Specialist role is between $69,373 and $90,190.
Is National Guard membership required?
Yes, this is a Title 32 Excepted Service position requiring active membership in the Washington Army National Guard.
What type of experience is needed?
A minimum of 24 months of progressive experience in healthcare analysis, administration, clinical management, or supervision is required.
Are veterans' preferences applied?
No, veteran's preference does not apply to National Guard Technician positions in the excepted service.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is September 25, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time.
What are the military grade requirements?
Applicants must be in military grades E3 through E5 and assigned to a compatible military position.

This Health System Specialist position with the Washington Army National Guard offers a compelling career path for individuals passionate about healthcare administration and dedicated to serving their community and country. By managing vital health programs and providing essential support, you will play a key role in the operational readiness and well-being of our service members. If you meet the requirements and are ready for a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply.