Become a Health Science Specialist with the VA Boston Healthcare System
Are you looking to pivot your career toward a mission-driven organization? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively recruiting for a Health Science Specialist to support its research initiatives in Boston, Massachusetts. This role is an excellent opportunity for professionals with a background in health or allied sciences to contribute to high-impact research that improves the quality of life for our nation's heroes.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the backbone of our research operations. Key duties include:
- Research Coordination: Overseeing the lifecycle of local research sites, including startup and closure procedures.
- Regulatory Compliance: Maintaining study records according to the Code of Federal Regulations, ICH Guidelines, and VA Standard Operating Procedures.
- Data Analysis: Analyzing research data, performing literature searches, and generating reports for leadership.
- Communications: Managing national email communications and coordinating team meetings, agendas, and presentations.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- A Bachelor's degree or higher in a medical, health, or allied science field.
- Current or former federal employees must provide documentation of 52 weeks of time-in-grade at the GS-07 level.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Quick Comparison: Qualification Pathways
| Qualification | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree in health/allied sciences from an accredited institution. |
| Experience | One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-08 level. |
| Documentation | Must submit transcripts and current SF-50 forms. |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-09 grade level, with an annual salary ranging from $69,905 to $90,882, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Competitive salary and potential for career growth.
- Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility.
- Support for professional development and training.
- The intrinsic reward of serving those who have protected our country.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure compliance.
- PDF Files: Always upload documents in PDF format to maintain your intended formatting.
- Detail is Key: Clearly state your job titles, duties, and the specific number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Check Your Status: Use the "Track this application" feature in USAJOBS to stay updated on your submission.
This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to use your scientific expertise to enhance the lives of Veterans. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to work in a collaborative, research-heavy environment in Boston, we encourage you to submit your application package before the deadline of September 8, 2026.
Why This Health Science Specialist Job Matters
Join a dedicated research team in Boston and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who served our nation.
Health Science Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a detail-oriented Health Science Specialist to join the VA Boston Healthcare System. This role is pivotal in supporting our research operations, ensuring compliance, and coordinating project activities. You will work 20 hours per week in a collaborative environment committed to the health and well-being of America's Veterans.
Requirements for Health Science Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher in a medical, health, or allied science field
- Completion of online assessments
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
- For current/former federal employees: 52 weeks of time-in-grade at the GS-07 level
Preferred Qualifications for Health Science Specialist
- Demonstrated experience in research coordination and project onboarding
- Proven ability to train personnel and enforce research regulations
- Strong analytical skills regarding data collection and report formulation
- Proficiency with SharePoint and bibliographic database management
- Expertise in psychosocial measures and literature searching techniques
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Flexible work schedule options
- ✓Telework opportunities (subject to approval)
- ✓Comprehensive federal employee benefits package
- ✓Meaningful career impacting Veteran health outcomes
- ✓Professional development within the VA Research and Development office
💡 How to Apply Health Science Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Science Specialist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts and SF-50 forms.
- Apply online through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Complete the required online assessment when prompted.
- Monitor your application status through the online dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and focused on results; it must be under two pages to meet federal requirements.
- Save your resume and documents as PDFs to ensure proper formatting.
- Be specific about your hours worked per week; the VA defines a full-time year as 35-40 hours weekly.
- Use the resume builder tool in USAJOBS to ensure your document meets all agency guidelines.
- Double-check your SF-50 forms to ensure they clearly demonstrate time-in-grade requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a virtual position. While telework may be authorized, the role is based in Boston, and candidates should expect to perform duties in an office setting.
What is the maximum length allowed for my resume?
To comply with the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must be two pages or less. Applications with longer resumes will be deemed ineligible.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
*A: No, federal agencies now strictly enforce a two-page limit for resumes to comply with current hiring plans.*
Is there a vaccination requirement?
*A: Yes, all VHA health care personnel are required to participate in the annual influenza vaccination program.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) remains committed to President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As a Health Science Specialist within the Office of Research and Development, you will be part of a team dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and ensuring that Veterans receive the best possible care through clinical and administrative research innovation.