Inventory Management Specialist - Drive Efficiency at the VA Maine Healthcare System

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Inventory Management Specialist to join the VA Maine Healthcare System in Augusta, Maine. This critical role ensures the effective management of medical supplies and equipment, directly contributing to the high-quality care provided to our nation's Veterans. If you have a knack for organization, a strong understanding of supply chain principles, and a desire to serve those who have served, this opportunity may be the perfect fit for your career aspirations. This position offers a competitive salary, a pathway for promotion, and the potential for a flexible work arrangement.

About the Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the second-largest department in the federal government, dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in the nation's military and their families. The VA's mission is to provide Veterans with comprehensive healthcare, benefits, and memorial services. The VA operates the largest integrated health care system in the United States, with over 1,700 sites of care, including hospitals, community clinics, and long-term care facilities. The VA is committed to a culture of "I CARE" – Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence – guiding its interactions with Veterans and its internal operations. Working at the VA means contributing to a meaningful mission, offering a stable career path, and enjoying a work-life balance with generous benefits.

Job Responsibilities: Inventory Management Specialist

As an Inventory Management Specialist within the Commodity Management Division of the Supply Chain Management Service at the VA Maine Healthcare System, you will be instrumental in maintaining the smooth flow of essential resources. Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Inventory Management and Control: Overseeing and managing an assigned class of expendable materials and durable medical equipment (DME). This involves ensuring accurate stock levels, preventing shortages, and minimizing excess inventory.
• Supply Chain Coordination: Serving as a key point of contact for coordinating material support and resolving complex logistical problems that may arise within the supply chain.
• Forecasting and Analysis: Conducting thorough forecasting and quantitative analysis to predict future supply needs, ensuring that resources are available when and where they are needed.
• Quality Assurance: Performing regular spot checks and audits to maintain the integrity and accuracy of inventory records and processes.
• Specialized Item Management: Adhering to specific requirements for the management of sensitive items such as firearms, ammunition, and other critical equipment.
• Returns and Reutilization Programs: Implementing and managing federal and agency programs designed for the efficient return, repair, and reutilization of medical supplies, promoting sustainability and cost savings.
• Procurement Decisions: Making emergent procurement decisions when necessary to address unexpected supply needs or disruptions.
• Root Cause Analysis: Actively participating in processes to identify the root causes of supply chain issues and developing strategies to prevent recurrence.
• Acquisition Strategy Support: Assisting in the development and support of acquisition strategies for procuring durable medical equipment.
• Performance Evaluation: Utilizing best practices, principles, and tools to determine and evaluate the performance of the supply system.

This role is essential for ensuring that healthcare providers have the necessary tools and supplies to deliver exceptional care to Veterans.

Requirements and Qualifications

To be considered for the Inventory Management Specialist position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Eligibility Requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Selective Service Registration: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
• Background Investigation: Successful completion of a background and/or security investigation is required.
• Onboarding: Applicants will need to complete an online onboarding process.
• Identification: Acceptable forms of identification will be necessary for pre-employment requirements.
• Influenza Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory condition of employment.
• Probationary Period: A 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period must be successfully completed.

Qualifications:

• Time-In-Grade (TIG): Current federal employees must have held a GS grade for at least 52 weeks at the next lower grade level (e.g., GS-05 for a GS-07 position) to be eligible for promotion. This must be documented on an SF-50.

Grade Determination:

• GS-07 Level: One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level in the Federal service. This experience should include managing expendable items and durable medical equipment, forecasting needs, analyzing reports, utilizing automated inventory systems, researching issues, and implementing return/reutilization programs. Alternatively, one year of graduate education or a combination of graduate education and experience may qualify.
• GS-09 Level: One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 level in the Federal service. This experience should include managing a variety of supplies and DME, developing acquisition strategies, implementing return/reutilization programs, analyzing supply system performance, and serving as a logistics problem resolution point of contact. Alternatively, a Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree, or two years of progressively higher-level graduate education, or a combination of education and experience may qualify.

Education:

Transcripts are required if you are qualifying based on education. Foreign education must be accompanied by a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency. Recognized U.S. Department of Education accredited institutions are required.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

The work is typically performed in an office setting. However, there may be occasional requirements to assist with the receipt, storage, and distribution of supplies, which may involve lifting light boxes (under 40 pounds) and using material handling devices. Training and licensing for assigned equipment operation may be necessary.

Salary Overview

This Inventory Management Specialist position is graded at the GS-07 through GS-09 levels. The annual salary range is $50,460 - $80,243, dependent on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and locality pay adjustments. This position has promotion potential to the GS-09 level without further competition, provided all requirements are met.

Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees. These benefits include:

• Health Insurance: Access to a variety of federal health insurance plans (FEHB).
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage options for dental and vision care.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual (vacation) leave, sick leave, and paid federal holidays. Federal employees can also receive service credit for prior non-federal work or military experience to determine their annual leave accrual rate.
• Retirement Savings: Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a retirement savings and investment plan similar to a 401(k) plan.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Pre-tax accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, training, and career advancement.
• Telework Potential: Ad-hoc telework may be available, offering flexibility.

For more details on VA benefits, please visit http://www.vacareers.va.gov/why-choose-va/benefits/index.asp.

Application Process

To apply for this position, follow these steps carefully:

1. Create/Log In: Access your USAJOBS account. If you don't have one, create it first.
2. Apply Online: Click the 'Apply Online' button and proceed through the application process.
3. Resume and Documents: Upload your resume and any other required supporting documents. Ensure your resume is detailed, current, and highlights relevant experience. For federal employees, include your SF-50(s).
4. Questionnaire: Complete the online occupational questionnaire thoroughly and honestly.
5. Submit: Submit your complete application package by the closing date: September 11, 2026, 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
6. Assessments: If required, you will receive an email notification with instructions to complete online assessments through USA Hire. Complete these assessments by their deadline.

Important Notes:

• Resumes submitted must not exceed two pages.
• Ensure all information is accurate, as omissions or errors can affect your application.
• Track your application status via your USAJOBS account.

Application Tips

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to specifically address the keywords, skills, and competencies mentioned in the job announcement. Focus on accomplishments and quantifiable results.
• Document Experience: Be explicit about your responsibilities and achievements in each role. Clearly state the number of hours worked per week for each position to ensure proper credit for part-time experience.
• Federal Employees: Provide precise SF-50 documentation to clearly demonstrate your Time-In-Grade eligibility and grade progression.
• Review Thoroughly: Before submitting, review your entire application for accuracy and completeness. Ensure all required documents are attached.
• Understand Assessments: Familiarize yourself with the USA Hire assessment process. Practice materials are available to help you prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the salary range for this position? A: The annual salary range is $50,460 - $80,243, depending on qualifications and locality pay.

Q: What are the educational requirements? A: You can qualify with relevant graduate education (one year for GS-07, Master's degree for GS-09) or a combination of education and specialized experience. Transcripts are required if qualifying based on education.

Q: Is this a telework position? A: While not a virtual position, telework may be authorized on an ad-hoc basis. Eligibility will be discussed during the interview.

Q: What is the deadline to apply? A: The application deadline is September 11, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Q: Do I need to submit an SF-50? A: If you are a current or former federal employee applying for consideration of Time-In-Grade or other federal service benefits, you must submit your most recent SF-50.

Comparison Table: GS-07 vs. GS-09 Requirements

Feature	GS-07	GS-09
Specialized Experience	1 year equivalent to GS-05	1 year equivalent to GS-07
Graduate Education	1 full year of graduate-level education	Master's degree or 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education
Key Experience Focus	Managing expendables/DME, forecasting, analyzing reports, using automated systems, implementing return programs	Managing supplies/DME, developing acquisition strategies, analyzing system performance, logistics problem resolution, advanced supply ops

This Inventory Management Specialist position at the VA Maine Healthcare System offers a rewarding career opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans. By ensuring the efficient and effective management of critical supplies and equipment, you will play a vital role in the VA's mission of providing excellent healthcare. With a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth, this role is an excellent step for anyone looking to build a stable and meaningful career within federal service. Don't miss out on the chance to contribute to a noble cause. Apply today!