Launch Your Career: Advanced Medical Support Assistant with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative expertise with a deep commitment to service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for an Advanced Medical Support Assistant (AMSA) to join our team in Paterson, New Jersey. This role is central to the "Whole Health" model of care, ensuring our Veterans receive the efficient, compassionate treatment they have earned.
Job Responsibilities
As an Advanced Medical Support Assistant, you are the face of the clinical care team. Your daily duties will include:
- Care Coordination: Managing appointment schedules for interdisciplinary teams (such as PACT teams).
- Clinical Support: Coordinating referrals, follow-up care, and clinic flow to reduce wait times.
- Communication: Serving as the point of contact for Veterans, clinicians, and external facilities regarding lab results, consults, and patient flow.
- Systems Management: Utilizing complex electronic health record (EHR) systems to enter, modify, and audit patient data.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
- Proficiency: Must be fluent in spoken and written English.
- Clearance: Subject to a background and security investigation.
- Physical: Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
Salary Overview
The GS-6 position offers a competitive salary range designed to recognize the specialized nature of the work.
| Pay Grade | Salary Range | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| GS-06 | $53,512 - $69,565 | Per Year |
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA offers a comprehensive federal benefits package:
- Generous Leave: Up to 50 days of combined leave and holidays per year.
- Healthcare: Comprehensive federal insurance options.
- Retirement: Traditional pension and 401(k) savings with agency contributions.
- Work-Life Balance: Potential for parental leave and childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights your specific experience in clinical scheduling or medical office administration.
- Check Documents: Double-check that your SF-50 and transcripts are included.
- Deadline: The application must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on September 10, 2026.
If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for helping others, we encourage you to apply. This position provides not just a job, but a career path within the federal government where your work directly improves the lives of those who served our country.
Why This Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on Veterans' lives by providing expert administrative support in a fast-paced, mission-driven clinical environment.
Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) to join the Veterans Health Administration team in Paterson, New Jersey. This role is pivotal in ensuring smooth, compassionate, and efficient healthcare delivery for those who have served our country. You will work within interdisciplinary teams, managing complex patient scheduling, coordinating care resources, and serving as a vital communication link between Veterans, medical clinicians, and external facilities.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Registration for Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Completion of a 2-year trial period.
- Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Advanced knowledge of healthcare delivery models, including patient portals and interdisciplinary scheduling.
- Expertise in medical terminology and clinical flow processes.
- Strong ability to collaborate with diverse medical teams including doctors, psychologists, and nursing staff.
- Proven ability to manage patient concerns with tact and effective communication skills.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off annually (including 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid holidays).
- ✓Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance options.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401(k) (TSP) with agency matching up to 5%.
- ✓Paid parental leave (up to 12 weeks after 12 months of employment).
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.
- ✓Potential credit toward annual leave accrual based on previous professional or military experience.
💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant (Advanced) Job
- Log in or create an account at USAJOBS.
- Review the full job announcement and required documentation list.
- Prepare your long-form resume, SF-50 (if applicable), and transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 10, 2026.
- Monitor your email for confirmation and status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights how your experience matches the specific KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) required.
- Avoid making assumptions; provide specific details about your administrative duties and clinical support experience.
- Submit all required documents, especially your most recent SF-50, to avoid disqualification.
- Review your application for completeness before hitting submit; late submissions are not accepted.
- Check your USAJOBS application status periodically for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Advanced Medical Support Assistant?
You will manage complex scheduling, coordinate care across interdisciplinary teams, and facilitate communication between patients, providers, and external agencies to ensure Veterans receive timely care.
Is telework available for this position?
This is not a virtual or remote position; however, the role may have ad-hoc telework options depending on department policy.
Are there recruitment incentives?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Do I need medical certification?
No specific medical certification is required, but experience in a medical setting is essential.
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We provide care to millions of Veterans through a network of hospitals, clinics, and community-based sites. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors."