Become an Executive Director of Managerial Cost Accounting at the VA

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of American public service, dedicated to honoring President Lincoln's promise to those who have served. We are currently seeking a high-caliber leader for the role of Executive Director, Managerial Cost Accounting (ED-MCAO). This Senior Executive Service (SES) position offers the unique opportunity to shape the financial future of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and ensure the efficient delivery of healthcare services to our nation's heroes.

Job Responsibilities

As the ED-MCAO, you will serve as a principal advisor to the VHA Chief Financial Officer. Key responsibilities include:

Developing policies for VHA coding and cost accounting activities.
Providing financial oversight for Electronic Health Records and asset management systems.
Translating complex financial data into actionable strategies for senior leadership.
Leading cross-functional initiatives to address operational deficiencies and drive cost-effective improvements.

Comparison of Qualifications

Qualification Type	Requirement	Focus Area
Technical (TQ1)	In-depth knowledge of cost accounting	Healthcare finance & hospital operations
Executive (ECQs)	Demonstrated leadership	Government systems & organizational results

Requirements

This position demands executive-level expertise. Candidates must address five core executive competencies:

Commitment to the Rule of Law: Upholding Constitutional principles.
Driving Efficiency: Managing budgets and leveraging modern technology.
Merit and Competence: Ensuring high-quality output through data-driven problem solving.
Leading People: Fostering a high-accountability culture.
Achieving Results: Executing strategies that align with long-term agency goals.

Salary Overview

This is a pay band 3 position with a competitive compensation package ranging from $151,661 to $228,000 annually, reflecting the critical nature and high level of responsibility inherent in this executive role.

Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
Federal retirement and investment plans (TSP).
Generous leave accrual and work-life balance initiatives.
Career growth and professional development in an executive environment.

Application Tips

Strict Formatting: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use 10-point font and 1-inch margins.
Show, Don't Tell: Use the body of your resume to provide specific examples of your leadership successes.
Non-Competitive Eligibility: If you are already SES-certified, highlight this clearly in your application to expedite the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this position eligible for remote work?

Telework is available, though the position requires consistent engagement with headquarters and field operations.

What is the deadline to apply?

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on November 2, 2026.

Serving as the Executive Director of Managerial Cost Accounting is a significant career milestone. If you possess the leadership, integrity, and financial acumen to guide the VA’s fiscal policy, we encourage you to apply and help us continue our mission of excellence for veterans.

Why This Executive Director Managerial Cost Accounting Job Matters

Shape the future of veteran healthcare through strategic financial leadership as the Executive Director of Managerial Cost Accounting at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Executive Director Managerial Cost Accounting Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a visionary Executive Director for Managerial Cost Accounting (ED-MCAO) to serve as a principal advisor to the VHA Chief Financial Officer. This prestigious Senior Executive Service (SES) role is pivotal in guiding the agency’s financial management, cost accounting, and analysis of large-scale healthcare operations. You will play a critical role in data-driven decision-making, influencing national resources, and ensuring the fiscal health of programs that support veterans, their families, and survivors.

Requirements for Executive Director Managerial Cost Accounting

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must submit a resume not exceeding two (2) pages.
Resume must clearly address five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Technical Qualifications (TQs).
Must maintain a PDF format for the resume with at least 1-inch margins and 10-point font.
Subject to pre-employment and random drug testing.
Potential requirement to sign a Reassignment Rights and Obligation Agreement.
Must successfully undergo an OPM Qualifications Review Board (QRB) certification.
Must meet the one-year probationary period requirement for new SES appointees.

Preferred Qualifications for Executive Director Managerial Cost Accounting

Current status as a career Senior Executive Service (SES) member.
Successful graduation from an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP).
Proven track record in healthcare financial management and hospital operation cost systems.
Expertise in integrating accounting, budgetary, and obligations data for executive decision support.
Demonstrated ability to drive operational efficiency through technological and process innovation.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment).
✓Life insurance and long-term care insurance options.
✓Professional development and executive training opportunities.
✓Flexible work arrangements including telework options.

💡 How to Apply Executive Director Managerial Cost Accounting Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Executive Director Managerial Cost Accounting Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a 2-page maximum resume specifically addressing the 5 ECQs and Technical Qualifications.
Upload your resume in PDF format adhering to strict formatting guidelines (1-inch margins, 10-point font).
Complete the automated assessment questionnaire integrated within the application process.
Submit your application before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Do not exceed the two-page limit; extra pages or narrative attachments will lead to disqualification.
Integrate your accomplishments directly into your resume; do not submit separate narrative statements.
Clearly label your eligibility status if you are a current or former SES member or an SESCDP graduate.
Double-check your PDF formatting before submission as HR will not modify your documents.
Review the OPM SES guidance to understand the expectations of the Qualifications Review Board (QRB).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the page limit for the resume?

The resume is strictly limited to two (2) pages. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be considered.

Can I submit a separate narrative for my ECQs?

No, separate narrative statements are not permitted. All ECQs and technical qualifications must be demonstrated within the body of your two-page resume.

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary range for this pay band 3 position is $151,661 to $228,000 per year, depending on qualifications and organizational scope.

Job from Immediate Office Of The Assistant Secretary For Management

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our financial operations are complex, dynamic, and vital to mission success. SES leaders at the VA are charged with leading organizational transformation, exercising fiscal responsibility, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to the American people and the rule of law.