Become a Security Assistant at the VA: A Career in Support of Our Veterans

Are you looking for a career that combines administrative precision with a meaningful mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Security Assistant to support the Midwest Health Care Network (VISN 23) in Iowa City. This role is essential to maintaining the integrity of the VA’s personnel and credentialing processes.

Job Responsibilities

As a Security Assistant, you will serve as the first point of contact for new employees, contractors, and students. Key duties include:

Security Vetting: Initiating and monitoring background investigations.
Credentialing: Assisting in the issuance of PIV identification badges.
Database Management: Entering and tracking sensitive personnel data in federal systems.
Customer Support: Providing clear guidance to applicants regarding security forms and requirements.

Requirements

To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

U.S. Citizenship.
Successful completion of an online assessment.
Ability to clear a security/background investigation.
Compliance with the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Submission of a two-page resume.

Grade Level Comparison Table

Grade	Experience Required	Education Requirement
GS-05	1 year of specialized experience	4 years above high school
GS-06	1 year of specialized experience	No substitution allowed
GS-07	1 year of specialized experience	No substitution allowed

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $40,736 to $65,599 per year, commensurate with experience and grade level.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a robust suite of benefits, including competitive health insurance, generous leave time, and a structured retirement system through the Thrift Savings Plan.

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: Federal hiring rules are strict. Your resume must be two pages or less.
Be Specific: Do not leave gaps in your work history. Include dates and hours per week for every position listed.
Prepare for the Assessment: The USA Hire assessment is a critical part of your application. Set aside three hours to complete it in a quiet environment.

If you have a passion for security and a heart for serving our nation’s Veterans, this role at the VA is the perfect next step in your career. Apply today to help us continue our mission of providing world-class care to those who sacrificed so much.

Why This Security Assistant Job Matters

Support those who served by securing the backbone of the VA Midwest Health Care Network.

Security Assistant Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a diligent and detail-oriented Security Assistant to join our VISN 23 team in Iowa City, IA. In this vital role, you will assist in managing personnel security, credentialing, and suitability programs. You will be the primary point of contact for new appointees, ensuring that the background investigation process is streamlined, accurate, and compliant with federal regulations. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to a healthcare mission that serves over 400,000 Veterans.

Requirements for Security Assistant

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
Must complete an online assessment.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Must provide a resume that is no longer than two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Security Assistant

Experience in personnel security or suitability vetting.
Proficiency in managing electronic databases and reporting systems.
Strong interpersonal skills for handling sensitive or emotionally charged situations.
Ability to provide clear technical guidance to customers.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP).
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.
✓Work-life balance with a set Monday-Friday schedule.

💡 How to Apply Security Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Security Assistant Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a federal-style resume (max 2 pages).
Complete the online application and questionnaire.
Submit all required documents, including transcripts if applicable.
Complete the required online USA Hire assessment when prompted.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Use the resume builder to ensure you hit the two-page requirement.
Clearly list your duties, hours worked per week, and dates of employment on your resume.
Do not wait until the last minute; give yourself time to complete the 3-hour assessment.
Be specific in your responses to avoid any assumptions by the hiring team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an on-site position located in Iowa City, Iowa.

What happens if I don't have experience in security?

You may qualify based on education or a combination of education and experience, depending on the grade level.

What is the two-page resume limit?

To comply with federal merit hiring plans, your resume must be no longer than two pages to be eligible for consideration.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We serve those who have served our country. By joining the VHA, you become part of a network that provides compassionate care to over 400,000 Veterans across the Midwest.