Become a Dental Service Secretary at the El Paso VA Health Care System
Are you looking to transition into a stable federal career where your work directly impacts the well-being of Veterans? The El Paso VA Health Care System is currently hiring a Secretary (OA) to provide critical support to our Dental Service. This role is perfect for administrative professionals who are highly organized, tech-savvy, and eager to work in a dynamic, mission-focused environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Secretary (OA) for the Dental Service, you will act as a cornerstone of the department. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Administrative Support: Providing executive-level support to the Chief of Dental Service and the dental staff.
- Policy Management: Maintaining the Dental Service Policy and Procedure Manual, drafting updates, and documenting new policy text.
- Data & Reporting: Gathering data for quality improvement programs and assisting in the preparation of recurring reports such as budget requests and performance appraisals.
- Office Coordination: Managing schedules, processing fee-basis correspondence, and facilitating effective communication within the department.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education/Experience: You must possess one year of specialized experience (comparable to the GS-4 level) OR four years of education above high school.
- Compliance: Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Background: Ability to pass a federal security investigation.
Salary Overview
This position is categorized under the GS schedule. The annual salary range is provided below:
| Pay Scale | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-5 | $40,736 - $52,957 |
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health and Wellness: Multiple options for health insurance and life coverage.
- Financial Security: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave accrual and the potential for ad hoc telework.
Application Tips
- Mind the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure compliance.
- Be Specific: VA reviewers do not make assumptions. Explicitly state your job titles, duties, and the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Documentation: Have your transcripts and any relevant SF-50 forms ready before you begin the application process.
Serving as a Secretary (OA) at the El Paso VA is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to contribute to a noble mission. If you possess the organizational skills to keep a busy dental office running smoothly, we encourage you to start your application today.
Why This Secretary (Oa) Job Matters
Launch a meaningful career supporting our nation's heroes by joining the El Paso VA Health Care System as a Dental Service Secretary.
Secretary (Oa) Job Overview
The El Paso VA Health Care System is seeking a detail-oriented professional to serve as a Secretary (OA) for the Dental Service. In this vital role, you will provide administrative support to the Chief of Dental Service, manage departmental policy manuals, coordinate performance improvement programs, and assist with budget and fee-basis correspondence. If you thrive in a collaborative environment and are dedicated to providing excellent service to Veterans, we encourage you to apply.
Requirements for Secretary (Oa)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements or educational substitutions by the closing date.
- Completion of mandatory online assessments.
- Must complete a one-year probationary or two-year trial period.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass a background/security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Secretary (Oa)
- Experience in dental health care delivery settings.
- Proficiency in administrative policy management and record-keeping.
- Strong technical skills using automated office equipment, computers, and office software suites.
- Proven ability to maintain complex reports, budgets, and personnel documentation.
- Demonstrated ability to function effectively in a fast-paced medical environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment)
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance programs
💡 How to Apply Secretary (Oa) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Secretary (Oa) Job
- Log into or create your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
- Complete the mandatory online application questionnaire.
- Submit your application through the online portal by the closing date.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding mandatory USA Hire assessments.
💡 General Tips
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page limits.
- Ensure your resume includes clear start/end dates and the average hours worked per week for every position.
- Prioritize the most recent and relevant experience to keep your resume under the two-page limit.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder if you are unsure how to format your document.
- Check your application status regularly through the USAJOBS portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this role?
You must have one year of specialized experience at the GS-4 level, or four years of education above high school in an accredited business, secretarial, or technical school.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position may be authorized for ad hoc telework; however, details will be discussed during the interview process.
What is the page limit for the resume?
Effective September 2025, resumes for this position must be no longer than two pages.
What is the closing date for this application?
*A: The position closes on 10/22/2026.*
Is there an online assessment for this role?
*A: Yes, candidates must complete an online competency-based assessment after submitting their initial application.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. Working at the El Paso VA means joining a community that values compassion, integrity, and excellence. Located in the heart of the Southwest, El Paso offers a unique blend of cultural richness, outdoor adventure, and a low cost of living that makes it an exceptional place to grow your career.