Advance Your Career: Health System Specialist at Salem VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of American healthcare, providing world-class services to those who have served our nation. The Salem VA Medical Center is currently looking for a motivated Health System Specialist to join their team. This role is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between administrative operations and high-level medical education.
Job Responsibilities
As a Health System Specialist (HPE), you will serve as a key point of contact for Health Professions Education. Your core responsibilities include:
- Program Oversight: Managing affiliation agreements and program letters of agreement (PLAs).
- Credentialing: Validating trainee qualifications and credentials (TQCVL).
- Onboarding/Offboarding: Coordinating the entry and exit of health professions trainees (HPTs).
- Data Management: Analyzing data from diverse systems to optimize business processes.
- Policy Guidance: Advising leadership on HPE regulations and administrative requirements.
Comparison: GS-9 vs. GS-11 Requirements
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-7 equivalent | 1 Year at GS-9 equivalent |
| Education (Sub) | Master's degree or 2 years grad study | PhD or 3 years grad study |
| Focus | Administrative support & analysis | Complex coordination & data synthesis |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the specialized experience or educational requirements outlined in the job announcement. All applicants must submit a two-page resume and ensure all relevant transcripts are provided if using education to qualify.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $61,722 to $97,087 per year, commensurate with experience and grade level.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy robust federal benefits, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System
- Significant paid time off and federal holidays
- Professional development and training programs
Application Tips
- Focus on Results: When describing your work experience, use action-oriented language to demonstrate how you improved processes.
- Compliance: Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit.
- Clarity: Clearly state the hours worked per week for every job entry on your resume.
This role is perfect for a professional looking to make a meaningful impact within a mission-driven organization. If you are detail-oriented, analytical, and passionate about healthcare education, we encourage you to apply through the official USAJOBS portal before the September 9, 2026 deadline.
Why This Health System Specialist - Health Professions Education (Hpe) Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of clinical training as a Health System Specialist at the Salem VA Medical Center, where your administrative expertise directly impacts the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Health System Specialist - Health Professions Education (Hpe) Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Health System Specialist (HPE) to support the Designated Education Officer at the Salem VA Medical Center. This vital role ensures the excellence of Health Professions Education (HPE) programs by managing affiliation agreements, overseeing trainee credentials, and optimizing onboarding workflows. You will collaborate with clinical and administrative teams to maintain high-quality care standards for our Veterans while fostering an efficient learning environment for trainees.
Requirements for Health System Specialist - Health Professions Education (Hpe) Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Successfully pass a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Subject to a background and security investigation
- Complete a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Submit a resume limited to two pages
- Ability to provide relevant transcripts for all education-based qualifications
Preferred Qualifications for Health System Specialist - Health Professions Education (Hpe) Specialist
- Direct experience with VA Education and Learning Resources
- Comprehensive understanding of complex healthcare systems
- Proven expertise in Graduate Medical Education (GME) management
- Experience synthesizing diverse data sets for process improvement
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal holiday leave
- ✓Career advancement and training opportunities within the VA system
💡 How to Apply Health System Specialist - Health Professions Education (Hpe) Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health System Specialist - Health Professions Education (Hpe) Specialist Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile
- Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages
- Complete the required online application questionnaire
- Attach all necessary supporting documents, including SF-50s and transcripts
- Submit your application by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date
- Complete any required USA Hire Assessments if prompted via email
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month and year start/end dates for all positions
- Explicitly state hours worked per week for each job to ensure correct experience calculation
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your formatting complies with the new two-page limit
- Highlight specific instances where you managed administrative onboarding or healthcare policy
- Double-check that your transcripts are legible and attached prior to submission
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the promotion potential for this position?
This position has a full performance level of GS-11. Promotions to this level may be made without further competition once all regulatory and performance requirements are met.
Is this a remote or telework position?
This is not a remote position. While the role offers ad-hoc telework, you must be physically located in the Salem, Virginia, area to perform the necessary on-site duties.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
Located in the beautiful Roanoke Valley of Virginia, the Salem VA Medical Center serves as a vital hub for healthcare delivery. With access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and a vibrant local community, Salem offers a high quality of life. The facility is committed to the VHA’s academic mission, ensuring that clinical trainees receive the best possible preparation to serve Veterans.