Advance Your Career as a Materials Handler with the VA
Are you looking for a stable career where your hard work directly supports those who served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for a motivated and reliable Materials Handler to join our logistics team in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This role is fundamental to the daily success of our healthcare operations, ensuring that the necessary supplies and equipment are exactly where they need to be.
Job Responsibilities
As a Materials Handler, your primary mission is the efficient management of warehouse inventory. Key responsibilities include:
- Implementing storage plans and optimizing warehouse space.
- Coordinating incoming and outgoing shipments.
- Managing the handling of temperature-sensitive and hazardous materials.
- Operating light trucks, vans, and warehouse machinery (such as forklifts).
- Maintaining accurate inventory logs and submitting periodic progress reports.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several key criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Documentation | Must provide a current, two-page maximum resume |
| Physical | Ability to lift 40-100+ lbs |
| Licensing | Valid state driver's license (Mandatory) |
| Health | Must participate in the influenza vaccination program |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $27.39 to $32.05. Beyond the salary, employees benefit from the stability of a federal position, including potential credit for prior service toward annual leave accrual and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support both your professional and personal well-being.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: Federal agencies now enforce a strict two-page limit for resumes. Ensure your most relevant experience is highlighted clearly.
- Be Specific: The HR team cannot infer skills. Explicitly state your experience with inventory and heavy equipment operation.
- Use PDF: Always upload your documents in PDF format to ensure they display correctly across all agency systems.
The role of a Materials Handler is essential to the logistics backbone of the VA. If you are ready to apply your work ethic to a mission that matters, apply today. We look forward to seeing how your skills can help us serve our Veterans better.
Why This Materials Handler Job Matters
Join the Logistics team at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center and play a vital role in supporting our nation's heroes.
Materials Handler Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Materials Handler to join the warehouse logistics team in Philadelphia, PA. In this position, you will be responsible for the seamless movement, storage, and inventory management of critical supplies, equipment, and medical materials essential for veteran care.
Requirements for Materials Handler
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Must possess a valid state driver's license
- Must be able to lift and handle materials weighing over 40 pounds frequently, and occasionally over 100 pounds with assistance
- Ability to work in various environmental conditions, including outdoors, docks, and climate-controlled storage areas
- Must pass a pre-employment physical and security background investigation
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Mandatory participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Materials Handler
- Experience in warehouse inventory management and storage planning
- Proficiency in operating warehouse machinery, including forklifts and hydraulic lift vehicles
- Demonstrated ability to follow safety protocols in handling hazardous or temperature-sensitive materials
- Strong organizational skills and experience maintaining accurate supply records
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal hourly pay
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for annual leave accrual credit based on prior experience
- ✓Supportive work-life balance initiatives
- ✓Career growth within the Department of Veterans Affairs
💡 How to Apply Materials Handler Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Materials Handler Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages or less.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including proof of citizenship and any relevant veteran preference documents.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of October 23, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages; longer resumes will result in disqualification.
- Use a clean, sans-serif font and maintain 0.5-inch margins.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience, as the agency will not make assumptions.
- Save and upload your documents in PDF format to preserve formatting.
- Double-check that all contact information is current and accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the physical requirement for this role?
The job requires frequent lifting of items over 40 pounds and occasional handling of awkward items over 100 pounds. Candidates must be capable of standing, walking, and operating equipment in various warehouse environments.
Is a driver's license mandatory?
Yes, a valid state driver's license is a selective placement factor and a mandatory prerequisite for this position.
Can I apply if I don't have a driver's license?
No. A valid state driver's license is a selective placement factor and is required for appointment.
What is the work environment like?
You will work in a mix of environments including warehouses, storage pods, and delivery docks, which may be subject to various weather conditions.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We are driven by a simple but powerful mission: to fulfill the promise of care for our nation's Veterans. Working at the VA means joining a community that values compassion, integrity, and excellence. It is more than just a job; it is a meaningful way to dedicate your skills to a patriotic cause.