A Career of Impact: Become a Voluntary Services Specialist with the VA
Are you looking to align your professional skills with a mission that truly matters? The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly motivated Voluntary Services Specialist to support our Veterans in Johnson City, Tennessee. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to serve those who have sacrificed for our nation while building a rewarding career in the federal service.
Job Responsibilities
As a Voluntary Services Specialist, you will be responsible for three core business pillars: Voluntary Service, Philanthropic Engagement, and Partnership Solutions. Your daily duties will include:
- Program Development: Assisting in the planning and execution of programs that meet facility objectives.
- Community Outreach: Building robust networks with external stakeholders to secure resources and volunteer support.
- Operations Management: Overseeing volunteer recruitment, screening, training, and placement.
- Financial Oversight: Managing donations and ensuring compliance with federal tax deductibility documentation.
- Event Planning: Coordinating complex local and regional events to celebrate and honor our volunteers.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific professional criteria. Here is a quick comparison of the experience requirements:
| Grade Level | Education/Experience Equivalent |
|---|---|
| GS-7 | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-5 level or 1 year graduate education |
| GS-9 | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-7 level or Master's degree |
| GS-11 | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-9 level or PhD equivalent |
All applicants must be U.S. citizens and must be prepared to undergo a background investigation. Additionally, all employees are required to participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range from $50,460 to $97,087 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive federal benefits package, which includes:
- Extensive health insurance plans
- Retirement programs and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- Paid leave and federal holidays
- Career growth opportunities through the multi-grade career ladder
Application Tips
Navigating the federal hiring process requires precision. To stand out, ensure your resume is concise (two pages maximum) and uses results-focused language. When describing your volunteer or professional experience, map your skills directly to the competencies listed in the job announcementβsuch as interpersonal skills, decision-making, and integrity. Always verify that your SF-50 accurately reflects your time-in-grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
If you are a driven professional with a heart for community service, the VA offers an exceptional environment to grow your career while supporting Veterans. We encourage you to review the full details and submit your application to become part of a team that values service, integrity, and excellence. Start your journey in Johnson City today!
Why This Voluntary Services Specialist Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by leading community engagement and volunteer programs at the Veterans Health Administration.
Voluntary Services Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Voluntary Services Specialist to join the Center for Development and Civic Engagement in Johnson City, Tennessee. This role is pivotal in managing programs that connect community resources, donors, and volunteers with the health care needs of our nation's Veterans. You will operate within a high-reliability organization, helping to transform interactions into relational experiences that prioritize the well-being of Veterans and their families.
Requirements for Voluntary Services Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Completion of online application and assessments
- 1-year probationary period or 2-year trial period
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Ability to obtain and maintain a background security investigation
- One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (or equivalent education)
Preferred Qualifications for Voluntary Services Specialist
- Experience in volunteer management or philanthropic development
- Proven success in community outreach and partnership building
- Background in medical or hospital-based volunteer administration
- Strong interpersonal communication and public speaking skills
- Knowledge of federal donation and General Post Fund regulations
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive federal salary structure
- βComprehensive health insurance options
- βFederal retirement benefits including FERS
- βGenerous annual and sick leave accrual
- βOpportunities for career advancement and promotion
- βWork-life balance with standard Monday-Friday scheduling
π‘ How to Apply Voluntary Services Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Voluntary Services Specialist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights results-oriented experience and meets the two-page limit.
- Attach all required documents, including SF-50 and transcripts if applicable.
- Submit the complete application package by the closing date.
- Complete any required online assessments via the link provided after submission.
π‘ General Tips
- Tailor your resume to reflect the specific competencies listed in the job duties.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates time-in-grade if you are a federal employee.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet all formatting standards.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
- Review your application status frequently via the online portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position located in Johnson City, Tennessee.
What is the promotion potential for this role?
The position has a career ladder up to the GS-11 level. Promotion to higher grades is possible without further competition once regulatory and performance requirements are met.
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?
Yes, relevant volunteer experience in philanthropic or community settings is credited the same as paid experience.
What is the work schedule?
This is a standard Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm position.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
Can I update my application after I submit?
You may update your application until the announcement closes on 09/08/2026. After that date, the record is locked.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) operates as a High Reliability Organization (HRO), committed to delivering the best possible care to America's Veterans. The Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) serves as the engine behind our community connections, leveraging volunteer support and philanthropic partnerships to improve the Veteran experience. By joining our team in Johnson City, you become part of an agency dedicated to 'relational' rather than 'transactional' care.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Application
- β Apply Online Portal
- β Application Status
- β Questionnaire Preview
- β Benefits Information
- β USA Hire Resource Center
- β General Schedule Qualifications
- β Accreditation Verification
- β Foreign Qualifications Recognition
- β Form I-9 Documents
- β Resume Building Help
- β Career Transition Resources
