Become a Program Specialist: Leading Regulatory Excellence at the VA
Are you a policy professional with a passion for regulatory oversight? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is hiring multiple Program Specialists to guide the development and implementation of critical federal regulations. This role is essential to maintaining the integrity of the programs that support our nation's veterans. If you have experience in administrative law and regulatory strategy, this is your opportunity to influence policy at the highest levels of government.
Job Responsibilities
As a Program Specialist, you will:
- Draft complex regulatory amendments to Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
- Advise senior leaders on regulatory priorities, legal risks, and strategic mandates.
- Lead the coordination of regulatory packages with the Office of General Counsel (OGC) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
- Analyze new legislation to determine its impact on current agency programs.
Comparison: Standard vs. Specialized Experience
| Experience Type | Typical Focus |
|---|---|
| General Administration | Office support, scheduling, and basic records management. |
| Specialized Regulatory Experience | Statutory interpretation, APA compliance, and complex rulemaking. |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-14 position, applicants must meet the following:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Documentation: Must provide an SF-50 to prove time-in-grade.
- Assessment: Completion of required online assessments.
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-14 level, with an annual salary range of $143,913 to $187,093, depending on locality and qualifications.
Benefits
The VA offers a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, paid time off, and potential flexibility in work arrangements like telework.
Application Tips
- Resume Length: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
- Clarity: Use the USAJOBS resume builder to avoid missing required data like hours per week.
- Documentation: Organize your SF-50s early to verify your eligibility for federal hiring authorities.
This Program Specialist role is a unique chance to impact the VA’s mission through regulatory excellence. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenge, submit your application before the closing date.
Why This Program Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of veteran services by spearheading high-impact federal regulations at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Program Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a skilled Program Specialist to join the Office of Regulation Oversight and Management. This high-level position serves as a primary subject matter expert and advisor, managing the complete regulatory lifecycle for VA programs, including health, benefits, and cemetery administration. You will navigate complex legal landscapes, translate legislative intent into actionable federal policy, and provide critical leadership guidance to ensure the agency remains compliant and effective in its mission to serve those who have served our nation.
Requirements for Program Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must meet one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level (or equivalent)
- Successful completion of required online competency assessments
- Ability to serve a probationary or trial period
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
Preferred Qualifications for Program Specialist
- Direct experience leading the development and clearance of complex federal regulations
- Proven history of interpreting and applying statutory and administrative law
- Established track record of coordinating with OGC, OMB, and other federal oversight entities
- Demonstrated ability to advise senior leadership on regulatory risks and legal sufficiency
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package
- ✓Potential for telework and flexible work schedules
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on federal service years
- ✓Opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of Veterans and their families
- ✓Training and professional development resources
💡 How to Apply Program Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Specialist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less.
- Submit your application and all required supporting documentation (SF-50, etc.) via the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the required online USA Hire assessments if prompted.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS track application feature.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Clearly list hours worked per week and specific dates for all experience.
- Utilize the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all necessary federal formatting standards are met.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Proofread your application to ensure it explicitly matches the competencies and requirements listed in the job announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely?
This position may be authorized for telework or virtual work, depending on agency policy and the specific needs of the department.
What is the maximum resume length?
Federal regulations now require a maximum length of two pages for this application. Resumes exceeding this limit will result in an ineligible rating.
How do I submit my SF-50?
*A: Upload it directly through your USAJOBS application portal as a supporting document.*
What is the primary focus of this role?
*A: The role focuses on the lifecycle of federal regulations, including drafting, coordination, and publication.*
Job from Office Of The Secretary
The Office of Regulation Oversight and Management (ROM) within the Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to carrying out President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our military. We manage the complex web of regulations that govern healthcare, benefits, and memorial services for millions of Veterans and their survivors.