Become an HR Specialist (Employee Benefits) at the Department of Veterans Affairs
Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for public service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering a unique opportunity to join the Office of Human Resources Administration (HRA) as an HR Specialist. This role is essential to our mission, ensuring the individuals who care for our nation's Veterans are well-supported in their own benefit needs.
Job Responsibilities
In this position, you will serve as the agencyβs subject matter expert. Your daily duties will include:
- Benefits Consulting: Providing expert guidance on FEHB, FEGLI, and other benefit programs.
- Compliance: Conducting rigorous program evaluations and ensuring strict adherence to OPM regulations.
- Policy Design: Developing standard operating procedures to streamline HR operations.
- Training: Designing and delivering instructional materials to educate the workforce on benefit entitlements.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Meet the Time-In-Grade requirements if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Submit a two-page maximum resume.
- Complete the required online assessments.
Grade Level Comparison
| Feature | GS-12 | GS-13 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Consultative & Operational | Expert & Advisory |
| Focus | Processing & Training | Proactive Risk Management |
| Experience Req | 1 year at GS-11 | 1 year at GS-12 |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range starting at $102,415 and reaching up to $158,322 annually, commensurate with your experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance options.
- Flexible work schedules and ad hoc telework.
- Generous annual and sick leave accruals.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Focus on results-oriented language.
- Documentation: Verify your SF-50s correctly show your time-in-grade before applying.
- Assessment: Donβt rush the assessment. Take the time to understand the competencies being measured.
Serving the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to supporting the Veterans who have given so much to our country. Apply today to bring your HR expertise to a team that values your contributions.
Why This Hr Specialist (Employee Benefits) Job Matters
Join a dedicated team committed to the well-being of our nation's Veterans by serving as an expert resource for complex federal employee benefits programs.
Hr Specialist (Employee Benefits) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled HR Specialist (Employee Benefits) to join the Office of Human Resources Administration (HRA), Corporate Senior Executive Management Office (CSEMO) in Washington, D.C. This role is pivotal in ensuring that our workforce receives accurate, timely, and compassionate guidance regarding their benefits, playing a key part in the mission to serve those who have served our country.
Requirements for Hr Specialist (Employee Benefits)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Completion of online assessments
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959
- Subject to background and security investigations
- One-year probationary or two-year trial period
- Current Federal employees must meet Time-In-Grade requirements (GS-12/13 progression)
- Submission of required SF-50 documentation for federal status verification
Preferred Qualifications for Hr Specialist (Employee Benefits)
- Graduate level degree combined with progressive specialized HR experience
- Experience conducting benefits briefings, webinars, and retirement-preparation sessions
- Demonstrated ability to reduce benefits-processing errors through proactive reviews
- Expert knowledge of FEHB, FEGLI, FSAFEDS, and leave administration
- Proven experience in developing and delivering HR training programs
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive Federal Salary
- βFlexible Work Schedules
- βAd-hoc Telework opportunities
- βAnnual Leave and Sick Leave accrual
- βFederal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB)
- βFederal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)
- βFlexible Spending Accounts (FSAFEDS)
π‘ How to Apply Hr Specialist (Employee Benefits) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Hr Specialist (Employee Benefits) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a two-page maximum resume highlighting relevant experience.
- Complete the application questionnaire and required online assessment.
- Attach all necessary supporting documentation, including SF-50s and transcripts.
- Submit your complete application package before the 11:59 PM (ET) deadline on September 11, 2026.
- Monitor your email for USA Hire assessment links if prompted.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week, start/end dates, and salary/grade info.
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the two-page requirement.
- Double-check that your SF-50s clearly demonstrate Time-In-Grade eligibility.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the online assessment, though it may take less time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a virtual position. However, it does offer ad hoc telework based on agency policy.
What is the page limit for the resume?
Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must be two pages or less.
What happens if I don't submit an SF-50?
Failure to provide the required SF-50 to demonstrate Time-In-Grade for current or former federal employees may result in an ineligible rating.
Can I submit a longer resume?
No, resumes exceeding two pages will result in an ineligible rating.
When is the deadline?
The announcement closes on September 11, 2026, or when the first 150 applications are received.
Job from Deputy Assistant Secretary For Corporate Senior Executive Management
The Corporate Senior Executive Management Office (CSEMO) operates under the VAβs HRA division. Our mission is to recruit and retain transformational leaders committed to the Veteran community. We foster a culture of integrity, excellence, and proactive support for our staff.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Position URL
- β OPM Qualification Standards
- β Career Transition Resources
- β Apply Online
- β Application Status
- β U.S. Department of Education Accreditation
- β Form I-9 Acceptable Documents
- β USA Hire Applicant Resource Center
- β Resume Page Limit Guidance
- β Merit Hiring Plan Resources
- β USAJobs Help Center
- β Veterans' Preference Info
- β VA Benefits Information
- β Reasonable Accommodation Information
