Launch Your Career: Security Assistant at the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System

Are you looking for a career that combines public service with the dynamic world of law enforcement and emergency dispatch? The VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System in Reno, Nevada, is currently hiring a Security Assistant to play a vital role in our Police Service Operations Center. This is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and well-being of the Veterans who have served our nation.

Job Responsibilities

As a Security Assistant, you will serve as the eyes and ears of the facility. Your primary duties include:

Monitoring and responding to facility-wide security and fire alarms.
Dispatching police officers to emergency and non-emergency calls.
Managing sensitive radio and telephone communications.
Utilizing computer systems to track access, manage keys, and run official records.
Maintaining professional logs and preparing detailed incident reports.

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$40,896 - $53,165
Location	Reno, Nevada
Education Requirement	4 years above high school (or experience)
Schedule	Rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific criteria set by the Office of Personnel Management. You will need a minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to a GS-04 level or have completed four years of post-high school education. Because this is a testing-designated position, all selectees must undergo drug testing and a rigorous background check.

Salary Overview

This position is classified at the GS-5 grade level, with an annual salary range of $40,896 to $53,165. This compensation includes the security of federal employment benefits and stability in a high-demand career field.

Benefits

Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs are eligible for a robust benefits package, including:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
Generous vacation and sick leave policies.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Opportunities for federal career advancement.

Application Tips

Watch the Resume Length: Federal agencies now enforce a strict two-page limit for resumes. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to stay compliant.
Be Specific: Do not assume the hiring manager knows your duties. Explicitly list hours worked per week and specific accomplishments.
Complete Assessments Promptly: The USA Hire assessment is a critical part of your application. You will receive a unique link via email after submitting your initial application.

Serving as a Security Assistant for the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System offers a unique opportunity to protect those who served while enjoying the lifestyle of beautiful Northern Nevada. If you possess the integrity, attention to detail, and calm under pressure required for this role, we encourage you to apply before the September 8, 2026, deadline.

Why This Security Assistant Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in public safety by serving those who served: Join the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System as a Security Assistant in beautiful Reno, Nevada.

Security Assistant Job Overview

The VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Security Assistant to join our Police Service Operations Center in Reno. This critical role involves serving as the nerve center for facility safety, monitoring emergency systems, managing communications, and coordinating responses to life safety and security events. You will provide essential support to our police force and health care staff, ensuring a safe environment for our nation's Veterans.

Requirements for Security Assistant

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
Must pass a pre-employment background/security investigation.
Required to undergo a urinalysis screening for illegal drug use.
Must participate in the mandatory annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Must serve a 1-year probationary period.
Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-04, or 4 years of education above high school, or a combination of both.

Preferred Qualifications for Security Assistant

Proficiency in radio dispatch and emergency communication systems.
Experience with law enforcement terminology and security procedures.
Strong attention to detail and ability to handle high-stress emergency situations.
Ability to operate standard office computer software and security databases.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Federal retirement pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
✓Mission-driven work environment.
✓Stable federal career progression opportunities.
✓No state income tax in Nevada.

💡 How to Apply Security Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Security Assistant Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Attach all required documentation, including transcripts if using education to qualify.
Submit your application through the online portal before the September 8, 2026 deadline.
Complete the required online USA Hire Assessments within the designated timeframe.
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must clearly state the number of hours worked per week to verify full-time vs. part-time experience.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet formatting and length requirements.
Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire Assessments; you can pause and resume as needed.
Check your 'Track this application' status in USAJOBS regularly for assessment notifications.
Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Security Assistant actually do?

You act as the primary point of contact for the Police Service Operations Center, monitoring security alarms, dispatching officers, answering emergency calls, and maintaining law enforcement logs.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an on-site position at the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System in Reno, Nevada.

Are there physical requirements for this job?

The work is largely sedentary but requires good hand-eye coordination, vision, and hearing for monitoring systems.

Do I need a degree for this job?

*A: No, you can qualify with a combination of relevant work experience and education.*

Is there flexibility in the work schedule?

*A: This role requires rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to ensure 24/7 coverage.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: to care for those who have served and their families. Our Reno facility is nestled at the base of the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains, offering staff a high quality of life with access to world-class outdoor recreation, vibrant city culture, and no state income tax.