Launch Your Career: Program Support Assistant (OA) at the VA
Are you a detail-oriented professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly organized Program Support Assistant (OA) to join the Nursing Operations team in Mountain View, California. This role is central to the daily functions of the facility, providing the administrative backbone required to deliver exceptional care to our Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the point person for a variety of critical nursing operations. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Project Coordination: Organizing educational events, staff training, and clinical orientations.
- Database Management: Maintaining records in systems such as TMS, VISTA, and SharePoint.
- Data Analytics: Collecting, analyzing, and summarizing program performance data for leadership reports.
- Administrative Support: Handling incoming correspondence, timekeeping, and troubleshooting administrative workflows.
- Customer Service: Serving as the primary contact for nursing staff, students, and external partners.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements:
- One year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-06 level.
- Proof of Time-In-Grade (TIG) for current/former federal employees.
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A two-page maximum resume.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $63,081 - $82,007 per year |
| Benefits | Health, Life, Retirement, TSP, PTO |
| Work Schedule | Monday - Friday, 7:30 am - 4:00 pm |
| Location | Mountain View, CA |
Application Tips
Success in federal hiring depends on your application quality. Since the VA does not make assumptions about your experience, ensure your resume is explicit. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to keep your document within the strict two-page limit and focus on results rather than generic job descriptions.
If you are ready to apply your administrative talents in a way that truly matters, this position offers a stable career path with the federal government. Take the next step in your professional journey and help the VA maintain its commitment to those who served.
Why This Program Support Asst (Oa) Job Matters
Elevate your administrative career within the Veterans Health Administration and play a vital role in supporting our nation's heroes.
Program Support Asst (Oa) Job Overview
The VA Palo Alto Healthcare System is looking for a dedicated Program Support Assistant to join the Nursing Operations team. This position serves as a critical link in the administrative infrastructure, ensuring that educational programs, training initiatives, and staff development processes run seamlessly. You will handle a diverse array of tasks ranging from database management and compliance tracking to coordinating high-level training events for nursing staff. This is an excellent opportunity for an organized professional who thrives in a fast-paced clinical support environment and is committed to the VA's mission of providing world-class care to our Veterans.
Requirements for Program Support Asst (Oa)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must meet Time-In-Grade (TIG) requirements (GS-06 for at least 1 year or higher grade level) if currently or recently a federal employee.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level.
- Must be able to provide all required documentation, including valid SF-50 forms.
- Must pass a background investigation.
- Must submit a resume that complies with the two-page limit requirement.
Preferred Qualifications for Program Support Asst (Oa)
- Demonstrated experience in nursing operations or clinical administrative support.
- Expertise in managing Learning Management Systems (TMS) and clinical software like VISTA or CPRS.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel and PowerPoint.
- Strong background in regulatory compliance and data reporting.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with diverse stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health Insurance options
- ✓Federal Retirement plan (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Program Support Asst (Oa) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Support Asst (Oa) Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS if you do not already have one.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Gather your required documents, specifically your most recent SF-50 and any other proof of eligibility.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload your resume and all supporting documents as PDFs for best formatting.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline on September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume uses clear, results-focused language rather than just a list of duties.
- Double-check your SF-50 forms to ensure they clearly verify your time-in-grade eligibility.
- Prioritize the most relevant and recent work experience in your two-page resume.
- Save your documents as PDFs to maintain formatting and avoid potential file corruption issues.
- Read the full job announcement carefully; the VA does not make assumptions about your qualifications if they are not explicitly stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this position is not suitable for telework and requires an on-site presence in Mountain View, California.
What is the resume length limit?
Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must be strictly two pages or less to be considered.
What documentation do I need to prove my Time-In-Grade?
You must submit your most recent SF-50. If that does not show you have held the grade for at least one year, you must also provide previous SF-50s (such as a promotion or within-grade increase notice) to verify the duration.
What if my resume is longer than two pages?
Your application will be considered ineligible. Please condense your experience to the most relevant highlights.
Will I need a security clearance?
This position is designated as non-sensitive/low risk, but you will undergo standard background suitability checks.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Palo Alto Healthcare System is a premier teaching hospital under the Veterans Health Administration. We provide a full spectrum of patient care, ranging from primary care to complex surgery and long-term rehabilitation. Our commitment to research, education, and compassionate care makes us a leader in the healthcare industry. Joining our team means joining a mission-driven organization where your administrative expertise directly supports clinical success.