Become an Inventory Management Specialist with the VA

Are you a logistics professional looking to apply your skills in a mission-driven environment? The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is currently hiring an Inventory Management Specialist to join our team in Des Moines, Iowa. This role is essential to our ability to provide high-quality healthcare to our Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As an Inventory Management Specialist, your primary objective is to ensure that our medical facilities are fully stocked and operationally ready. Your duties will include:

Managing and controlling expendable supplies and durable medical equipment.
Forecasting inventory needs to prevent shortages.
Conducting quantitative analysis on supply chain performance.
Coordinating the return, recall, and reutilization of medical supplies.
Serving as the primary point of contact for resolving logistics and supply issues.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Driver's License	Valid, unrestricted license required
Education/Experience	Combination of specialized experience or relevant graduate degree
Assessment	Completion of USA Hire Competency Based Assessments

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range starting at $50,869 and reaching up to $80,895 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level (GS-07 to GS-09).

Benefits

Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Health and life insurance.
Retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid vacation and sick leave.
Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
Be Specific: Detail your duties with hours worked per week for every entry.
Use the Right Format: PDF is the preferred format for all uploads.

If you are organized, analytical, and passionate about serving our nation's Veterans, we encourage you to apply today. Your expertise will directly influence the care we provide to those who deserve it most.

Why This Inventory Management Specialist Job Matters

Join the VA Central Iowa team and make a direct impact on the lives of those who served our nation by ensuring they have the medical supplies they need to receive world-class care.

Inventory Management Specialist Job Overview

The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Inventory Management Specialist to join our Supply Chain Management team. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for the logistical oversight, procurement support, and inventory control of critical medical supplies and equipment. You will play a vital part in maintaining the efficiency of our healthcare facilities, ensuring that our clinical teams are always equipped to provide compassionate care to our Veterans.

Requirements for Inventory Management Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must possess a valid, unrestricted driver's license.
Completion of a mandatory 1-year probationary period or 2-year trial period.
Ability to perform light lifting (up to 40 lbs) and utilize material handling devices.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and background investigation.
Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Inventory Management Specialist

One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level for GS-07 roles, or GS-07 level for GS-09 roles.
Graduate-level education or Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) as defined by OPM guidelines.
Proficiency in automated inventory management systems and quantitative forecasting.
Strong analytical skills regarding supply chain performance and return/reutilization programs.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
✓Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Life insurance and long-term care options
✓Flexible spending accounts

💡 How to Apply Inventory Management Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Inventory Management Specialist Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, focusing on relevant accomplishments.
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
Upload required documentation, including transcripts and current SF-50 if applicable.
Submit your application package by 11:59 PM (ET) on September 4, 2026.
Monitor your email for instructions regarding required USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your resume meets the strict two-page limit.
Clearly state your hours worked per week for every position listed on your resume.
Use specific, results-oriented language rather than just listing duties.
Ensure your transcripts are legible and clearly document your degree completion.
Save all documents in PDF format to preserve formatting and clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the promotion potential for this position?

This position has a promotion potential to the GS-09 level. You may be promoted without further competition once you meet all regulatory and performance requirements.

Are there any physical requirements for this role?

Yes, you may be required to move or store supplies weighing up to 40 pounds and travel between various medical center locations.

Can I apply if I don't have a background in healthcare?

*A: Yes, as long as you meet the specialized experience requirements in inventory management or logistics.*

Is this a remote position?

*A: No, this is an onsite position based in Des Moines, Iowa.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. We serve those who have served our country. At the Central Iowa Health Care System, we pride ourselves on providing whole-health care, focusing on healing relationships and empowering Veterans to live their lives to the fullest.