Security Assistant: A Vital Role at the Veterans Health Administration
Are you looking to launch or advance your career in federal service while directly impacting the lives of those who served our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently hiring for a Security Assistant in Salt Lake City, Utah. This role is essential for maintaining safety and administrative order within the VA healthcare ecosystem.
Job Responsibilities
As a Security Assistant, you are the backbone of the facility's security and emergency response coordination. Your primary duties include:
- Monitoring alarm and access systems to keep the facility secure.
- Managing user permissions and database maintenance.
- Acting as an emergency point of contact for medical, fire, or psychiatric crises.
- Issuing identification, parking permits, and government keys.
- Preparing detailed reports on incident activity.
Comparison: Standard vs. Specialized Qualifications
| Criteria | Requirement Type |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year at GS-04 level or equivalent |
| Education | 4 Years post-high school study |
| Combination | Possible to mix education and experience credits |
Requirements
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and able to pass a background check. You must demonstrate strong communication skills and the ability to maintain composure under stress.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $52,957 annually, commensurate with your qualifications and federal pay scales.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy robust federal benefits, including medical insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and job security.
Application Tips
- Follow the two-page resume limit requirement strictly.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all information is correctly formatted.
- Be explicit about your past duties and how they align with the job description.
If you possess strong analytical skills and a desire to serve, the Security Assistant role at the VHA in Salt Lake City is an exceptional opportunity. Apply today and become part of a team that honors Americaβs Veterans.
Why This Security Assistant Job Matters
Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Security Assistant and play a pivotal role in maintaining the safety and integrity of our nation's healthcare facilities for those who served.
Security Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is seeking a dedicated Security Assistant to join our team in Salt Lake City, Utah. This position serves as a vital component of the Police Service, responsible for monitoring physical security systems, coordinating emergency responses, and managing essential administrative protocols. You will be the first line of support in ensuring a secure environment for Veterans, staff, and visitors, operating within a high-stakes setting that requires precision, empathy, and professional integrity.
Requirements for Security Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date
- Ability to complete an online assessment
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Subject to a background and security investigation
- Willingness to work rotating shifts, including weekends, nights, and holidays
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Security Assistant
- One full year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-04 level
- Proficiency in data entry, database management, and report generation
- Experience in security or access control systems
- Strong interpersonal skills to handle diverse customer interactions
- Completion of four years of post-high school education
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive federal salary
- βComprehensive health and life insurance options
- βParticipation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- βGenerous annual and sick leave accrual
- βOpportunities for professional development and training
- βStable work environment within the Department of Veterans Affairs
π‘ How to Apply Security Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Security Assistant Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account
- Build or update your resume (maximum two pages)
- Attach all required documents, including transcripts if applicable
- Complete the online questionnaire
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date
- Complete any required online assessments through the USA Hire portal
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month and year for all start/end dates and hours worked per week.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page limits.
- Be specific in your descriptions; the hiring team will not make assumptions about your experience.
- Follow the two-page limit requirement strictly to avoid disqualification.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the assessment; you can save your progress and return later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum resume length?
Federal agencies now require that resumes be no longer than two pages to comply with the Merit Hiring Plan.
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?
Yes, relevant volunteer work, including service through programs like Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, is credited toward your qualifications.
Are there physical requirements for this job?
The work is largely sedentary but may involve light walking, standing, or carrying small items; there are no extraordinary physical demands.
How do I know if I need to submit transcripts?
If you are using education to meet any part of the qualification requirements, you must attach an official or unofficial transcript.
What is the probationary period?
You will serve a 1-year probationary period to evaluate your fitness for the role.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working at the VHA means joining a mission-driven organization dedicated to whole-health care.
External Resources
- β Official USAJobs Posting
- β Apply Online
- β Application Status
- β OPM Qualification Standards
- β Education Verification
- β Foreign Qualifications Recognition
- β USCIS Form I-9 Documents
- β USA Hire Assessment Prep
- β USAJOBS Help Center
- β Resume Page Limit Guidance
- β VA Benefits Overview
- β Career Transition Resources
