Advance Your Career as a Medical Records Administrator at the VA
Are you a dedicated professional in health information management seeking a leadership role that makes a real-world impact? The Marion VA Medical Center is currently recruiting for an Assistant Chief of Health Information Management (ACHIM). This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a team, improve operational efficiency, and support the healthcare of America's Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As the ACHIM, you will serve as a key administrative leader. Your responsibilities include:
- Supervision: Managing HIM functions, including the review of work quality, quantity, and accuracy for department staff.
- Performance Improvement: Identifying workflow bottlenecks and implementing best practices to streamline HIM processes.
- Data Integrity: Ensuring the accurate processing of electronic health records and health data analysis.
- Advisory Role: Providing technical guidance to facility leadership on health documentation requirements and regulatory compliance.
- Management: Developing performance standards, conducting competency assessments, and managing personnel functions.
Comparison of Requirements
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | 3 years or Bachelor's Degree in HIM |
| Certification | Must hold AHIMA/AAPC credential |
| Background Check | Required for all selected candidates |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 annually, commensurate with experience. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, which includes comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement program (Thrift Savings Plan), and ample paid time off. You may also qualify for service credit toward annual leave accrual based on prior professional experience.
Application Tips
To ensure your application stands out, follow these tips:
- Use the Template: Use the specific VA Clinical Resume document provided in the announcement.
- Be Specific: Quantify your achievements. If you managed a team, state the size and the results of your leadership.
- Formatting: Ensure all dates are in MM/YYYY format to guarantee HR correctly credits your experience time.
If you have the skills to lead and a heart for service, this position at the Marion VA Medical Center could be the perfect next step. Apply by September 8, 2026, to be considered for this vital role.
Why This Medical Records Administrator (Assistant Chief (Achim)) Job Matters
Advance your career in healthcare administration while honoring those who served by joining the Marion VA Medical Center as an Assistant Chief of Health Information Management.
Medical Records Administrator (Assistant Chief (Achim)) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Medical Records Administrator to serve as the Assistant Chief of Health Information Management (ACHIM) at the Marion VA Medical Center in Illinois. This leadership role involves supervising HIM functions, overseeing data accuracy, ensuring compliance with health record standards, and providing expert consultation to facility leadership. You will play a critical role in supporting the VA's mission to provide world-class, compassionate care to our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Medical Records Administrator (Assistant Chief (Achim))
- U.S. Citizenship
- Three years of creditable medical records experience OR a bachelor's degree in health information management (or related field with 24 semester hours in HIM/HIT)
- Professional certification: Coding certification (AHIMA/AAPC), HIM certification (AHIMA), or Health Data Analyst certification (AHIMA)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
- Must be able to complete a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Records Administrator (Assistant Chief (Achim))
- Prior experience at a GS-09 level (or equivalent) in health information management
- Strong skills in performance and process improvement techniques
- Demonstrated ability to manage resources, including staffing and budget/contracts
- Experience in supervisory functions such as performance evaluations and staff development
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary schedule
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual
- ✓Career development and professional training opportunities
- ✓Stable work environment with a focus on work-life balance
💡 How to Apply Medical Records Administrator (Assistant Chief (Achim)) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Records Administrator (Assistant Chief (Achim)) Job
- Create or log in to your account at USAJOBS.
- Download the required Clinical Resume document template from the VA careers site.
- Prepare your comprehensive resume including start/end dates and hours worked per week.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and professional certifications.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume format uses MM/YYYY for all positions to ensure credit is applied correctly.
- Clearly document the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities mentioned in the announcement.
- Double-check that all required documents, including SF-50s if you are a federal employee, are uploaded before hitting submit.
- Tailor your resume to show specific examples of how you meet the GS-11 criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
This position is eligible for ad-hoc telework only and is not a fully remote or virtual position.
What certification is required for this role?
Applicants must hold a current certification in either Coding (AHIMA/AAPC), Health Information Management (AHIMA), or Health Data Analysis (AHIMA).
What is the primary work schedule?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
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. The Marion VA Medical Center operates as a core component of this mission, providing high-quality, whole-health care. By joining this team, you become part of the VA's "Fourth Mission"—ensuring readiness for national emergencies and supporting our veterans through every stage of their healthcare journey.