Become a Government Information Specialist with the VA in Ann Arbor

Are you looking to pivot your career toward a mission-driven organization? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is hiring a Government Information Specialist in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This is a vital role designed for professionals who excel at the intersection of data privacy, regulatory compliance, and organizational policy.

About the Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides comprehensive healthcare to those who have served in our nation’s military. Operating under the "Whole Health" model, the VHA emphasizes personalized care that goes beyond simple treatment. Working for the VHA means joining a mission that honors the sacrifices of our Veterans by providing exceptional, secure, and compassionate care.

Job Responsibilities

As a Government Information Specialist, you will be the cornerstone of data integrity and privacy at the facility level. Key duties include:

Privacy Strategy: Developing and integrating local privacy strategies that align with VHA national priorities.
Policy Analysis: Conducting deep dives into complex federal regulations to guide executive leadership decisions.
FOIA Oversight: Managing the timely and accurate release of records in response to Freedom of Information Act requests.
Investigative Audits: Planning monitoring activities to assess compliance and mitigating privacy risks.
Regulatory Compliance: Reviewing case law and statutes to protect the interests of the government and the privacy of the Veterans we serve.

Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate strong foundational knowledge in data governance. To qualify, you must possess one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (e.g., GS-09 for GS-11, or GS-11 for GS-12). This experience should involve managing sensitive information, understanding federal statutes, and developing internal monitoring controls.

Comparison of Grade Levels

Feature	GS-11	GS-12
Scope	Professional Level	Advanced Professional
Experience	Equivalent to GS-09	Equivalent to GS-11
Focus	Program Support	Full Program Management
Education Substitution	Available	Not Available

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $82,372 to $128,350 per year. In addition to a competitive salary, employees enjoy the standard federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and generous leave accrual.

How to Apply Successfully

Applying for federal jobs requires precision. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages long and uses clear, concise language. Highlight your accomplishments using results-oriented metrics whenever possible. Be sure to submit all required documentation, including your most recent SF-50, at the time of application.

This position is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about data governance and public service. By maintaining the privacy and security of federal records, you directly contribute to the trust and wellbeing of the Veterans in our healthcare system. Apply today to start your journey with the VA.

Why This Government Information Specialist Job Matters

Protect the privacy of those who served by leading critical data governance and FOIA initiatives within the Veterans Health Administration.

Government Information Specialist Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Government Information Specialist in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In this pivotal role, you will oversee facility-level data governance, manage complex FOIA requests, and ensure strict compliance with federal privacy regulations. You will serve as a key advisor to leadership, influencing policy decisions and safeguarding the data rights of Veterans, patients, and staff. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape organizational culture through ethical data stewardship.

Requirements for Government Information Specialist

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service.
Must complete an online onboarding process upon selection.
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is required.
Must serve a 1-year probationary period.
Must provide proof of eligibility (e.g., transcripts, SF-50s) for time-in-grade or education-based qualifications.
Resumes must be limited to two pages or less.

Preferred Qualifications for Government Information Specialist

Extensive knowledge of federal FOIA and Privacy Act legislation.
Experience in data quality improvement and risk mitigation within a federal healthcare environment.
Ability to analyze complex policy inquiries and provide expert recommendations to executive leadership.
Demonstrated experience in investigative research regarding data disclosure and security.
Proficiency in collaborating with legal counsel, human resources, and labor partners.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual.
✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP) with agency matching.
✓Potential for career advancement and professional development.
✓Access to a supportive work environment dedicated to Whole Health care.

💡 How to Apply Government Information Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Government Information Specialist Job

Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or less, focusing on relevant accomplishments.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
Upload required documentation, including your most recent SF-50 (if applicable) and transcripts.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline on September 8, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the two-page requirement and formatting standards.
Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one year of time-in-grade at the required GS level; do not rely solely on award SF-50s.
Save and upload all documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
Use clear, results-oriented language that mirrors the keywords found in this announcement.
Double-check that your contact information is accurate and that your resume is legible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of the Government Information Specialist?

The role centers on leading the facility privacy and FOIA program, ensuring data governance, and conducting research to maintain compliance with federal laws protecting Veteran and patient information.

Are there specific resume length requirements?

Yes. Effective September 27, 2025, federal agencies require resumes to be two pages or less. Applications with longer resumes may be deemed ineligible.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an on-site position based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

What if I have never held a federal job?

You can still apply if you meet the specialized experience or educational requirements outlined in the announcement.

Is there a physical requirement for this role?

Yes, the role involves some light lifting of record boxes (up to 30 lbs) and walking between locations to conduct audits.