Launch Your Career: Purchasing Agent at the VA Ann Arbor
Are you looking for a career that combines your procurement expertise with a mission-driven purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a detail-oriented professional to serve as a Purchasing Agent at the LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This role is an excellent opportunity for individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments and are dedicated to supporting the healthcare needs of our nation's veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Purchasing Agent, you will serve as a foundational member of the medical center’s operations. Your daily tasks will include:
- Purchasing Support: Reviewing and editing purchase requests, conducting micro-purchases, and identifying cost-effective sources for medical supplies.
- Procurement Execution: Managing the rental, lease, and purchase of vital equipment through delivery orders.
- Problem Resolution: Resolving discrepancies in payments, shipments, and supply orders to ensure clinical needs are met without delay.
- Administrative Oversight: Developing reports using Excel, performing timekeeping duties, and acting as a primary point of contact for medical staff.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level or equivalent.
- Compliance: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Background: Candidates must pass a security investigation and serve a one-year probationary period.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen Only |
| Experience Level | Equivalent to GS-5 |
| Vaccine Program | Mandatory Participation |
| Remote Work | Not Eligible |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $50,087 to $65,113 per year. Beyond the base salary, federal employees enjoy:
- Robust healthcare insurance choices.
- Predictable work schedules (Monday-Friday).
- Generous annual leave and sick time accrual.
- Access to the federal retirement system (Thrift Savings Plan).
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages long and clearly outlines your professional achievements. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to guarantee your application meets all technical standards. When describing your experience, focus on metrics—show, don’t just tell, how you have saved costs or improved procurement efficiency in the past.
If you have the organizational skills and the commitment to serve our veterans, this Purchasing Agent position at the VA in Ann Arbor is the perfect next step for your career. We encourage all qualified applicants to review the full requirements and submit their applications by the closing date to be considered for this honorable mission.
Why This Purchasing Agent Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in procurement while directly supporting those who served our nation at the LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center.
Purchasing Agent Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Purchasing Agent to join our team in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In this pivotal role, you will manage the acquisition of vital supplies, services, and equipment necessary for top-tier veteran healthcare. You will act as a key liaison between medical staff and suppliers, ensuring that procurement processes remain accurate, efficient, and aligned with federal standards. This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization where your attention to detail directly impacts the well-being of our veterans.
Requirements for Purchasing Agent
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level.
- Must be able to commute to or relocate within a commutable distance of Ann Arbor, Michigan.
- Must register with the Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959).
- Must complete a one-year probationary period.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
- Must pass a background and security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Purchasing Agent
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word.
- Experience working with automated inventory management or procurement software.
- Proven ability to resolve payment, shipment, or procurement discrepancies.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with diverse medical and administrative teams.
- Knowledge of federal acquisition regulations and small purchase procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Generous paid time off and leave programs
- ✓Predictable and flexible scheduling opportunities
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth
- ✓Meaningful work with a focus on work-life balance
💡 How to Apply Purchasing Agent Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Purchasing Agent Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJOBS website.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the required online assessment as prompted.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation, such as SF-50s or transcripts if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding additional competency-based assessments.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet all formatting requirements.
- Be specific in your resume by listing hours worked per week and including month/year start and end dates for each role.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page limits.
- Check your spam or junk folder regularly for communications from the agency.
- Take advantage of the practice resources provided by the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is not a virtual position. You must live in or be willing to relocate to a commutable distance from Ann Arbor, Michigan.
What is the page limit for my resume?
To comply with federal merit hiring plans, your resume must be no more than two pages in length.
Do I need to submit academic transcripts?
No, there is no educational substitution permitted for this grade level, so transcripts are not required.
What if I have a disability that affects my ability to take the online test?
*A: You can request a Reasonable Accommodation (RA) through the online application portal prior to starting the assessments.*
Can I submit a portfolio or extra documents?
*A: Please only submit the requested documents. Extra materials may not be reviewed.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining our team, you become part of a community that values gratitude, service, and compassion. We pride ourselves on offering a supportive work environment that encourages professional growth and provides a healthy work-life balance.