Program Support Assistant (OA) - Make a Difference at the VA Amarillo Health Care System

The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to providing exceptional care to the men and women who have served our nation. If you are a dedicated and organized individual looking to contribute to a meaningful mission, the Amarillo VA Health Care System has an exciting opportunity for you. We are seeking a Program Support Assistant (OA) to join our Geriatric and Extended Care Services team. This role is crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of our programs and providing essential support to staff, Veterans, and their families. Discover how you can leverage your skills to serve those who have served us.

About the Department of Veterans Affairs and Amarillo VA Health Care System

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and extended care services. 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. The Amarillo VA Health Care System is a proud part of this national effort, dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality whole health care to Veterans in the Texas Panhandle and surrounding areas. We are committed to fostering a supportive and professional environment where staff can thrive while making a tangible impact on the lives of Veterans.

Job Responsibilities: Your Role in Supporting Veterans

As a Program Support Assistant (OA) within the Geriatric and Extended Care (GEC) Services at the Amarillo VA Health Care System, you will be instrumental in the daily functioning and success of our programs. Your responsibilities will encompass a range of critical administrative and programmatic support functions:

Administrative and Management Support: You will provide comprehensive administrative, clerical, program, and technical assistance. This includes supporting day-to-day operations and assisting with program planning and evaluation. You'll help staff navigate processes, regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the GEC program, ensuring timely completion and resolution of programmatic needs. A key part of this role involves establishing, reviewing, and updating complex administrative procedures, evaluating their effectiveness, and recommending changes. You will also participate in team meetings, contributing valuable input to resolve operational issues and procedures. Furthermore, you'll offer training and guidance to staff regarding available programs.
Data Collection and Tracking Support: This position requires diligent management of patient-related data. You will be responsible for handling admission and discharge paperwork, inputting data into various systems, and meticulously correcting and resolving any inconsistencies found in patient data. You will review incoming data from diverse sources, analyze it, and make programmatic recommendations based on your findings. Maintaining pertinent data to support program activities, both internally and externally, is essential. This includes managing an automated system to track items such as completed transfers, patient transfer status, liaison activities, project milestones, progress reports, funding accomplishments, and compliance strategies.
Research/Program Resource Services and Support: You will manage and maintain critical information related to patient risk and priority status, facilitating the quick execution of emergency responses when needed. Educating staff and empowering them to facilitate patient education is another important function. You will conduct basic data analysis to inform programmatic recommendations and assist with special projects and proposals. This role involves resolving and addressing a wide variety of specialized problems that arise within the GEC program.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Telework: While this is not a virtual position, it may be authorized for Ad Hoc telework. Telework eligibility will be discussed during the interview process.

Requirements for Success

To be considered for this vital role, applicants must meet the following qualifications by the closing date of this announcement, September 11, 2026:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply.
Specialized Experience: You need at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-5) in the federal service. This experience should demonstrate proficiency in:
- Oral and written communication skills.
- Familiarity with some medical/psychiatric terminology.
- Computer operations, including standard office programs.
- Compiling and summarizing information and data.
- Identifying inaccuracies or anomalies in data.
- Interpreting and applying written instructions, guidelines, and policy memorandums.
- Interacting effectively with individuals from varied educational and professional backgrounds.
- Data transmission for monthly reporting.
Online Assessment: You must successfully complete an online assessment that measures critical general competencies required for the job. Your responses will be used to determine your eligibility.
Background Investigation: A background and security investigation is required for all selected candidates.
Onboarding Process: Successful completion of an online onboarding process is mandatory.
Identification: Acceptable forms of identification are required to complete pre-employment requirements. Please be aware that driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards not compliant with REAL ID standards cannot be used for employment verification after May 7, 2025.
Health Requirements: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel.
Probationary Period: As a condition of employment, you will be required to serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate your fitness and ensure your continued employment advances the public interest.
Resume Requirements: Your resume must be legible, clearly document your experience with job title, duties, month and year start/end dates, and hours worked per week. A full year of work is considered 35-40 hours per week. Part-time experience will be credited proportionally. Important Note: Resumes must not exceed two pages in length.

Note on Education: There is no educational substitution for experience at this grade level.

Salary Overview

The annual salary for this Program Support Assistant (OA) position ranges from $45,409 to $59,031. This salary reflects the GS-6 grade level for this role.

Benefits

As a federal employee with the Department of Veterans Affairs, you are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. While specific details are often best reviewed directly, common benefits include:

Paid Time Off: Earn annual (vacation) leave and sick leave based on your years of federal service. The VA may grant credit for relevant non-federal experience or active duty military service to accelerate your annual leave accrual rate.
Health Insurance: Access to Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, offering a variety of plans to meet your needs.
Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), a defined benefit pension plan, along with a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for additional savings.
Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
Work-Life Balance: Opportunities for flexible work schedules and telework (where applicable).
Professional Development: Opportunities for training, education, and career advancement within the VA system.

For more detailed information on VA benefits, you can visit http://www.vacareers.va.gov/why-choose-va/benefits/index.asp.

How to Apply

To apply for the Program Support Assistant (OA) position, please follow these steps carefully:

Review Announcement: Thoroughly read this entire announcement and all provided instructions.
USAJOBS Account: Log in to your USAJOBS account or create a new one.
Apply Online: Click the 'Apply Online' button and follow the on-screen prompts.
Select Resume: Choose your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents.
Complete Questionnaire: Accurately answer all questions presented in the application and the assessment questionnaire.
Submit Documents: Attach all necessary supporting documentation as required.
Submit Application: Click 'Submit Application' before 11:59 PM Eastern Time (ET) on September 11, 2026.
Assessments: If required, you will be notified via email and on your application submission screen to complete USA Hire Assessments. Follow the unique link provided and adhere to the completion deadline.
Track Status: You can monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.

Important: Ensure all application materials are submitted by the closing date. Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Tips for Success

Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to directly address the qualifications, skills, and competencies listed in this announcement. Use keywords from the job description.
Be Specific: Clearly describe your duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments in each position held. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
Adhere to Format: Ensure your resume is legible and does not exceed two pages. Use clear formatting and focus on relevant experience.
Demonstrate Competencies: Your application materials should provide evidence of your proficiency in competencies such as Attention to Detail, Customer Service, Integrity/Honesty, and Teamwork.
Complete All Steps: Do not overlook any part of the application process, including the online questionnaire and any required assessments.
Proofread: Carefully proofread your entire application for any errors or omissions before submission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the salary for this position?	The annual salary for this Program Support Assistant (OA) position is between $45,409 and $59,031.
What is the work schedule?	The position operates on a Monday to Friday schedule, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Is telework available?	This position may be authorized for ad hoc telework. Eligibility will be discussed during the interview process.
What are the basic qualifications?	You must be a U.S. Citizen with one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level, demonstrating strong communication, organizational, and computer skills, plus the ability to work with diverse populations.
Do I need to submit a cover letter?	A cover letter is accepted but not explicitly required unless listed as mandatory. Focus on ensuring your resume clearly details your qualifications.
How will my application be evaluated?	Your application will be assessed based on your resume, questionnaire responses, and performance on required online assessments, which measure key competencies like Attention to Detail, Customer Service, and Teamwork.
How can I request a reasonable accommodation for the assessment?	You will have the opportunity to request a reasonable accommodation for the USA Hire assessments within your online application. Such requests and supporting documentation must be received prior to starting the assessments.
What if I am a displaced Federal employee (CTAP/ICTAP)?	The Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) and Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provide priority for eligible displaced employees. You must submit specific documentation and be found 'well-qualified' to receive this priority.

This Program Support Assistant (OA) position at the Amarillo VA Health Care System offers a unique chance to contribute to the well-being of Veterans while advancing your federal career. If you possess the required skills, a commitment to service, and a desire to work in a supportive environment, we encourage you to apply. Join us in honoring America's Veterans by providing them with the excellent care and support they deserve. We look forward to receiving your application!

Why This Program Support Assistant (Oa) Job Matters

Make a difference in the lives of Veterans! The Amarillo VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Program Support Assistant (OA) to provide crucial administrative support within their Geriatric and Extended Care Services. If you're organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about serving those who served, this could be your next career move.

Program Support Assistant (Oa) Job Overview

Join the esteemed Veterans Health Administration as a Program Support Assistant (OA) at the Amarillo VA Health Care System. This vital role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the Geriatric and Extended Care Services, ensuring smooth daily operations and supporting program planning and evaluation. You'll work collaboratively with a diverse team of professionals, network staff, and national administrative personnel, playing a key part in delivering exceptional care and services to our nation's Veterans.

Requirements for Program Support Assistant (Oa)

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level, demonstrating oral and written communication skills, knowledge of medical/psychiatric terminology, proficiency in standard office software, ability to compile and summarize data, identify inaccuracies, interpret guidelines, and interact with diverse individuals.
Successful completion of an online assessment measuring critical competencies.
Ability to pass a background and security investigation.
Must complete an online onboarding process.
Possession of acceptable forms of identification for pre-employment requirements (ensure compliance with REAL ID requirements if using a driver's license or state ID by May 7, 2025).
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is required.
Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period.
Resume must be legible, clearly document experience with job title, duties, start/end dates, and hours worked per week (full year considered 35-40 hours/week).
Resumes submitted should not exceed two pages in length.
Experience, including volunteer work, is considered valuable.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate based on years of service (4, 6, or 8 hours per pay period).
✓VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employees credit for job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service to determine annual leave accrual rate (must be requested and approved prior to appointment).
✓Comprehensive benefits package through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

💡 How to Apply Program Support Assistant (Oa) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Support Assistant (Oa) Job

Read the entire job announcement and all instructions carefully.
Create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account.
Click 'Apply Online' and follow the prompts.
Select your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents.
Answer all questions in the application and questionnaire accurately.
Attach all necessary supporting documentation.
Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM ET on September 11, 2026.
After submitting, you may receive an email notification to complete required USA Hire Assessments. Follow the provided link and deadline.
Access USA Hire using your USAJOBS login credentials.
Review all assessment instructions carefully.
Request testing accommodations if needed, prior to starting assessments.
Set aside at least 3 hours to complete the assessments; they can be saved and resumed if needed.
Track your application status via your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is legible, clearly outlines your experience, including duties, start/end dates, and hours worked per week. Be specific and avoid assumptions.
Tailor your resume to highlight experience relevant to the knowledge, skills, abilities, and competencies listed in the job announcement.
Adhere to the two-page resume limit. Prioritize your most relevant and recent experience.
Review the competencies listed (Accountability, Attention to Detail, Customer Service, etc.) and ensure your application materials demonstrate proficiency in these areas.
Complete all required steps, including the online questionnaire and any assessments, by their respective deadlines.
If you have questions about reasonable accommodations for the assessment process, reach out for guidance before starting.
Familiarize yourself with the USA Hire system and available practice resources.
Double-check all information for accuracy before final submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The annual salary range for the Program Support Assistant (OA) position is $45,409 to $59,031.

What is the work schedule for this position?

The work schedule is Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Is telework an option for this position?

This position may be authorized for ad hoc telework. Eligibility will be discussed during the interview process.

What are the minimum qualifications for this role?

To qualify, you need to be a U.S. Citizen and possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level. This experience should demonstrate strong communication, organizational, and computer skills, along with the ability to work with diverse populations.

What documentation is required to apply?

A resume is required. Depending on your eligibility and qualifications, you may also need to submit a cover letter, DD-214, transcripts, SF-50s, or other supporting documents as listed in the announcement.

How is my application evaluated?

Your application will be evaluated based on your resume, questionnaire responses, and performance on required online assessments. You will be assessed on critical competencies such as Attention to Detail, Customer Service, and Teamwork.

Does Veterans' Preference apply to this announcement?

Since this position is being filled using Direct-Hire Authority, traditional Veterans' Preference rules do not apply. However, qualified veterans will be given full consideration.