Empowering Veterans: Careers as a Vocational Development Specialist

Are you passionate about helping others achieve their career goals? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Vocational Development Specialist at the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. This role is pivotal in assisting Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness to secure stable, competitive employment. If you are a dedicated professional looking to make a meaningful impact, this guide will help you understand the role and how to successfully navigate the federal application process.

Job Responsibilities

As a Vocational Development Specialist, you will act as a bridge between Veterans and the workforce. Key duties include:

Vocational Assessment: Identifying client strengths, interests, and barriers to employment.
Individualized Planning: Creating tailored vocational goals for each Veteran.
Job Development: Building relationships with local employers to facilitate hiring.
Case Management: Documenting progress and ensuring adherence to VA regulatory standards.

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$61,722 - $80,243
Schedule	Full-Time (Mon-Fri)
Location	Jackson, MS
Clearance	Not Required

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and hold a valid driver's license. Candidates must meet specialized experience requirements at the GS-09 level (or equivalent) or possess a qualifying Master's degree. Additionally, candidates must participate in the VA's mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary based on the GS-09 pay scale. Beyond compensation, employees gain access to the federal benefits package, which includes federal health insurance, a retirement plan, and paid time off.

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to stay compliant.
Document Everything: Ensure your resume clearly states the number of hours worked per week for every position.
Assessments: Be prepared to dedicate time to the USA Hire assessments once you receive your access link.

Serving as a Vocational Development Specialist at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have served our country. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to assist Veterans in reclaiming their independence through employment, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date.

Why This Vocational Development Specialist Job Matters

Empower our nation's heroes by helping them navigate the path to meaningful, competitive employment as a Vocational Development Specialist in Jackson, MS.

Vocational Development Specialist Job Overview

The G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as a Vocational Development Specialist. This role focuses on supporting Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness by identifying employment barriers, coordinating career training, and fostering connections with community employers. You will work in a supportive interdisciplinary team environment to assist Veterans in achieving long-term vocational success and personal independence.

Requirements for Vocational Development Specialist

U.S. Citizenship
Valid state-issued driver's license
One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 grade level
Completion of a one-year probationary period or two-year trial period
Must meet Selective Service registration requirements for males born after 12/31/1959
Ability to complete all required online assessments
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program

Preferred Qualifications for Vocational Development Specialist

Master's degree or two full years of graduate-level education in vocational rehabilitation, counseling, or a related field
Experience in vocational counseling or job placement for individuals with disabilities
Strong case management and documentation skills
Proficiency in coordinating outreach efforts and job development

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Competitive salary progression
✓Flexible work schedules (subject to facility needs)
✓Telework opportunities available
✓Participation in the federal retirement system
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual

💡 How to Apply Vocational Development Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Vocational Development Specialist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, focusing on relevant accomplishments.
Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Complete the online application questionnaire through the official portal.
Submit your complete application package by the closing date.
Monitor your email for a link to the required USA Hire Assessment.
Complete the assessment within the designated timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
Ensure your resume includes clear start/end dates and hours worked per week for each position.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the two-page requirement.
Double-check that all required supporting documents are attached before submission.
Review the assessment resources provided on the USA Hire portal before testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this is not a virtual position. While some telework may be authorized, the incumbent must be available to work on-site at the medical center and in the community.

Do I need a driver's license?

Yes. The position involves regular travel into the community to meet with Veterans and employers, making a valid state-issued driver's license a mandatory requirement.

What is the resume length requirement?

Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will result in ineligibility for the position.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services to Veterans in Mississippi and parts of Louisiana. As a Joint Commission-accredited facility, the center is committed to fulfilling the promise to care for those who have served our nation. Jackson, Mississippi, offers a vibrant cultural scene, making it a fulfilling place to live and work while serving a mission-driven organization.