Become a Research Health Science Specialist with the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of American healthcare, dedicated to the men and women who have served our nation. We are currently offering a unique opportunity for a Research Health Science Specialist to join our team in Seattle, Washington. This role is a professional, non-compensated (WOC) position that provides exceptional exposure to the inner workings of federal research and clinical quality improvement.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will provide critical support for the implementation of research and quality improvement projects. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Coordinating project deliverables and timelines in collaboration with Principal Investigators.
- Developing research policies, guidelines, and operational procedures.
- Ensuring project compliance with federal regulatory and administrative standards.
- Conducting medical abstraction and screening potential research participants.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement Type | Essential Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's or higher in health/allied sciences |
| Experience | Project coordination and regulatory compliance |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizenship preferred |
| Vaccination | Mandatory annual influenza vaccination |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline criteria:
- Education: A degree from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Compliance: You must pass a standard background check.
- Vaccination Policy: As part of the VA Healthcare Personnel (HCP) mandate, all employees must participate in the seasonal influenza program.
Salary and Benefits
While this is a Without Compensation (WOC) position, the professional benefits are substantial. You will gain direct experience within a world-class research organization, build a professional network within the federal government, and contribute to the health and well-being of our nation’s Veterans.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit implemented for federal positions. Focus your resume on the most relevant skills, such as clinical coordination or regulatory writing, and ensure your transcript is included if your education is part of your qualification.
The position of Research Health Science Specialist offers a rare chance to engage with high-level medical research in a supportive, mission-driven environment. If you are ready to apply your skills to improve Veteran outcomes, we encourage you to submit your application package today.
Why This Research Health Science Specialist Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on Veteran healthcare by joining the Department of Veterans Affairs in a specialized, without-compensation research role in Seattle.
Research Health Science Specialist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Research Health Science Specialist for a Without Compensation (WOC) role based in Seattle, Washington. This position plays a vital role in supporting the Office of Research and Development by facilitating critical research projects and quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing the care provided to our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Research Health Science Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be considered if no qualified citizens are available).
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
- Must register with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory for all Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Completion of an online onboarding process is required for selected applicants.
- Bachelor's or graduate degree in a field related to medical or health sciences from an accredited institution.
Preferred Qualifications for Research Health Science Specialist
- Experience managing project timelines and operational deliverables.
- Proficiency in drafting research policies, clinical guidelines, and regulatory documentation.
- Strong background in screening eligible candidates for clinical research projects.
- Ability to facilitate compliance with administrative and regulatory research requirements.
- Demonstrated ability to validate and manage project data.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Professional development within a federal research environment
- ✓Opportunity to contribute to national Veteran-centered care initiatives
- ✓Exposure to high-level clinical and research administration processes
- ✓Network with leading investigators and clinical researchers
💡 How to Apply Research Health Science Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Research Health Science Specialist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the resume requirements, ensuring your document is no longer than two pages.
- Prepare your transcript and other relevant documentation (e.g., SF-50 if applicable).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer to meet current federal merit requirements.
- Use a standard sans-serif font like Lato or Arial for readability.
- Quantify your experience; describe the nature of your duties and the hours spent per week.
- Save your documents as PDFs to ensure formatting consistency.
- Double-check your responses to the questionnaire as you cannot update them once submitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Without Compensation' (WOC) mean?
It means this is a volunteer or professional development position. There is no salary or financial compensation associated with this specific role.
Is a transcript required?
Yes, if you are using your education to qualify for the position, a transcript from an accredited institution is required.
Can I work remotely?
The position is currently listed as not eligible for remote work and requires presence at the Seattle, WA facility.
Is there any flexibility on the two-page resume limit?
*A: No, federal agencies now strictly enforce a two-page limit for resumes to ensure streamlined review.
Can I apply after the deadline?
*A: No, all applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date of November 3, 2026.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) operates the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is centered on the "I CARE" values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Joining our team means playing a role in a system that prioritizes Veteran-centered care and cutting-edge medical research.