Become a Purchasing Agent with the Veterans Health Administration

Are you looking for a career that combines technical procurement skill with a meaningful mission? The Dayton VA Medical Center is seeking a highly organized, professional, and dedicated individual to serve as a Purchasing Agent. In this vital role, you will ensure that the Prosthetics and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) operates effectively, providing our nation’s Veterans with the medical equipment and support they rely on daily.

Job Responsibilities

As a Purchasing Agent, you will act as a bridge between clinical needs and supply chain solutions. Your daily duties will include:

Procurement Execution: Adhering to FAR and VAAR regulations to acquire specific medical gear and services.
Inventory Oversight: Monitoring and managing stock levels, including consignment and medical implants.
Consult Management: Analyzing physician prescriptions and clinical records to determine Veteran eligibility for equipment.
Reporting: Utilizing PSAS software to track expenditures and purchase card activity.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific federal criteria:

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must complete the online questionnaire and required assessments.
Must provide a resume not exceeding two pages.
Must adhere to the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination requirement.

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position is determined by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, spanning the GS-5 to GS-6 grade levels.

Pay Grade	Salary Range (Annual)
GS-5/6	$42,253 - $61,230

Benefits

The VA provides an industry-leading benefits package to support your health, work-life balance, and long-term financial goals. Employees benefit from robust health insurance options, federal retirement matching, and generous paid leave.

Application Tips

Respect the Limit: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
Specificity Matters: When describing your experience, include job titles, dates, and hours worked.
Utilize Resources: Visit the USAJOBS Help Center for advice on writing effective federal resumes.

Serving the Veterans of the Dayton area is a rewarding challenge. If you possess the attention to detail and professional integrity required to manage the procurement of life-improving medical equipment, we encourage you to apply. Your contribution directly supports the quality of care provided to those who have sacrificed for our country.

Why This Purchasing Agent Job Matters

Join the mission at the Dayton VA Medical Center, where your administrative and procurement expertise directly impacts the quality of life for those who served our country.

Purchasing Agent Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is seeking a dedicated Purchasing Agent to join the Prosthetics and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) team in Dayton, Ohio. In this role, you will play a critical part in acquiring essential medical equipment, supplies, and services for Veterans. You will manage procurement life cycles—from initial requests to inventory control—ensuring that our heroes receive the care they need in a timely and efficient manner.

Requirements for Purchasing Agent

U.S. Citizenship
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation
Possess specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level
Submission of a resume limited to two pages
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Completion of online assessments as required

Preferred Qualifications for Purchasing Agent

Experience with Federal procurement policies (FAR, VAAR, VHA Directives)
Strong proficiency in managing and reconciling purchase card orders
Proven ability to interpret clinical health records and determine eligibility
Technical aptitude in using inventory tracking and reporting software
Demonstrated skill in training team members on procurement processes

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Health Insurance options
✓Generous Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
✓Professional training and development opportunities

💡 How to Apply Purchasing Agent Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Purchasing Agent Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Complete the online application and questionnaire.
Attach all required documents, including your most recent SF-50 if applicable.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if prompted.
Submit your application package before the closing date of September 28, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your resume meets the strict two-page limit.
Clearly define your hours worked per week; the agency assumes 35-40 hours as full-time.
Focus on results-oriented language that highlights your specific procurement and analytical achievements.
Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade eligibility if you are a current or former federal employee.
Test your ability to navigate the application portal early so you are not rushed before the closing deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the resume limit for this position?

Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must be strictly two pages or less. Submitting a resume longer than two pages will result in immediate disqualification.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an on-site position located at the Dayton VA Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio.

What are the physical requirements of the job?

The role involves both sedentary administrative work and warehouse activity. You may need to lift items up to 25 pounds, walk between facilities, and utilize storage shelving for inventory management.

How do I prove my time-in-grade?

You must submit an SF-50 that clearly shows one year at the required grade level. Do not rely solely on your most recent SF-50 if it does not cover the full 52-week period.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln to care for those who have served in our military. The Dayton VA Medical Center, located in the birthplace of flight, serves as a tertiary care facility offering acute, mental health, and hospice care. By joining our team, you become part of a collaborative research and teaching environment that prioritizes excellence in whole health care.