Join the Team: Purchasing Agent at the Lexington VA Health Care System
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing the highest level of care to those who have served our nation. As a Purchasing Agent within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Lexington, Kentucky, you will play a critical role in this mission. You will ensure that medical staff have the tools, supplies, and services necessary to maintain the health and well-being of our Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Purchasing Agent, your primary responsibility is to facilitate the acquisition of supplies and services. You will:
- Process small purchases and delivery orders.
- Conduct market research for specialized medical items.
- Monitor expenditures and track budget forecasts to prevent waste.
- Maintain records and generate reports using automated supply systems.
- Collaborate with medical staff to ensure procurement needs are met promptly.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Meet specialized experience requirements (at least one year at the GS-5 level or equivalent).
- Current federal employees must verify 52-week time-in-grade.
- Pass a background and suitability investigation.
- Comply with the annual influenza vaccination mandate.
Salary and Benefits
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $45,409 - $59,031 |
| Schedule | Full-Time (M-F) |
| Work Location | Lexington, KY (Onsite) |
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and generous leave accrual.
Application Tips
- Be thorough: List your duties and hours per week for every job on your resume.
- Document Everything: If you are a current federal employee, provide the correct SF-50 documentation to verify your grade history.
- Deadline Awareness: Applications must be submitted by September 8, 2026.
If you are a detail-oriented professional looking to support a meaningful cause, this Purchasing Agent role at the Lexington VA is an excellent opportunity to build your career while serving those who have served us.
Why This Purchasing Agent Job Matters
Launch your career in federal supply chain management by supporting those who served our nation at the Lexington VA Health Care System.
Purchasing Agent Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Purchasing Agent to join our Logistics Service in Lexington, Kentucky. In this pivotal role, you will manage complex procurement processes, including small purchases and service contracts, to ensure our medical centers are equipped to provide world-class care to Veterans. This position is ideal for an detail-oriented professional with a background in supply chain support, inventory management, or administrative procurement.
Requirements for Purchasing Agent
- U.S. Citizenship
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level
- Current federal employees must meet 52-week time-in-grade requirements
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Mandatory participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Purchasing Agent
- Demonstrated experience in automated supply/inventory management systems
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word
- Experience in resolving procurement discrepancies or tracking purchase obligations
- Ability to communicate effectively with medical staff and vendors
- Background in federal or agency-specific acquisition regulations
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Competitive paid leave and vacation accrual
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
- ✓Work-life balance with a set Monday-Friday schedule
💡 How to Apply Purchasing Agent Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Purchasing Agent Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and requirements.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (including SF-50 if applicable).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details duties and hours worked per week for each position.
- Submit your most recent SF-50 and any additional SF-50s required to prove time-in-grade.
- Check your USAJOBS status frequently after submitting.
- Upload all required documentation as listed in the announcement; missing documents may disqualify your application.
- Be specific in your responses regarding your procurement experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time, onsite position operating Monday through Friday, from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is telework available?
No, this position is not eligible for telework and requires an onsite presence in Lexington, KY.
What are the physical demands of this job?
The work is primarily performed in an office setting and requires only light physical effort such as sitting, standing, walking, or bending.
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
*A: Yes, this position is open to various hiring paths including competitive service candidates.*
Is remote work an option?
*A: No, this position is onsite.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Lexington VA Health Care System is a premier employer in Kentucky, recognized for its commitment to excellence. Operating across multiple campuses and clinics, the system provides a wide range of services, from acute medical and surgical care to specialized rehabilitation and mental health support. Joining the VHA means becoming part of a community dedicated to integrity, quality, and service.