Become a Program Specialist with the Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to serving those who have protected our nation. Within the Office of the Secretary, the Office of Small Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) plays a pivotal role in this mission by connecting small businesses to federal contracting opportunities. We are currently looking for a talented Program Specialist to join our team in Washington, D.C. If you have a passion for advocacy, strategic outreach, and economic development, this is an opportunity to make a tangible impact.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Specialist, you will act as a consultant and advocate. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Consulting and Counseling: Providing one-on-one sessions for prospective contractors to navigate VA operations.
Strategic Outreach: Representing the agency at trade shows and conferences.
Program Management: Designing and implementing initiatives to strengthen small business engagement.
Direct Connect Facilitation: Coordinating high-level meetings between small business owners and senior VA officials.
Administrative Oversight: Managing materials, presentations, and financial reports essential for program success.

Requirements

To be considered, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
Time-in-Grade: Current federal employees must demonstrate 52 weeks of service at the GS-12 level.
Documentation: You must provide a valid SF-50 and a resume that does not exceed two pages.

Comparison of Qualifications

Requirement Type	Detail	Status
Grade Level	GS-13	Mandatory
Resume Limit	2 Pages Max	Mandatory
Clearance	Other/Low Risk	Required
Telework	Authorized	Optional

Salary Overview

This position is classified at the GS-13 level, offering a competitive annual salary ranging from $121,785 to $158,322, depending on qualifications and federal pay tables for the D.C. area.

Benefits

The VA provides a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. We also support a flexible work environment that encourages telework for eligible employees, helping to balance professional responsibilities with personal well-being.

Application Tips

Focus on Quality: Since you have only two pages, prioritize your most recent and relevant achievements.
Use Data: Quantify your results where possible—did your outreach increase participation? How many businesses did you counsel?
Follow Format Rules: Ensure your resume margins are 0.5 inches and your font is legible (14-point for headers, 10-point for text).

Serving as a Program Specialist at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the success of small businesses that support our veterans. If you are an organized, empathetic, and strategic thinker, we encourage you to apply and join our team today.

Why This Program Specialist Job Matters

Empower small businesses and drive economic growth at the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Program Specialist.

Program Specialist Job Overview

The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) is seeking a dedicated Program Specialist to champion small business engagement within the Department of Veterans Affairs. This role focuses on strategic outreach, counseling, and connecting prospective small business contractors with VA opportunities. You will serve as a vital liaison, managing special projects, facilitating the Direct Connect program, and representing the VA at industry conferences to ensure small businesses have access to meaningful federal opportunities.

Requirements for Program Specialist

U.S. Citizenship
Must meet Time-In-Grade requirements if a current or former federal employee
Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level
Ability to pass a background/security investigation
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Must submit a resume no longer than two pages
Ability to successfully complete the required online assessment

Preferred Qualifications for Program Specialist

Experience providing one-on-one consulting for small business contractors
Proven track record in planning and managing special projects
Background in administrative functions such as budgeting, procurement, or personnel management
Skill in analyzing program effectiveness and evaluating outcomes against agency goals
Experience facilitating meetings between small businesses and senior federal program officials

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Flexible telework options available per agency policy
✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Opportunities for annual leave and service credit
✓Supportive and mission-focused work environment
✓Comprehensive health and retirement benefits provided by the federal government

💡 How to Apply Program Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Specialist Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Upload all required documentation, including recent SF-50 forms and relevant transcripts.
Complete the application questionnaire via the online portal.
Submit your application by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the required online assessments.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly lists the job title, employer, and hours worked per week for each role.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the strict two-page limit.
Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
Check your SF-50s to ensure they confirm your time-in-grade eligibility.
Complete your online assessment as soon as you receive the link; do not wait until the last minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this is not a virtual position. While telework may be authorized in accordance with agency policy, in-person reporting to the Washington, D.C. office is required.

What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?

According to the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes longer than two pages will result in ineligibility for this position. Please ensure your resume is concise and adheres to the page limit.

Are there recruitment or relocation incentives for this role?

No, recruitment and relocation incentives are not authorized for this position.

Job from Office Of The Secretary

The OSDBU is at the forefront of the VA’s commitment to small business. Our mission is to ensure that small and disadvantaged businesses have the resources, knowledge, and access needed to compete for and win federal contracts. By serving as a bridge between the private sector and agency leadership, we help diversify the federal marketplace and honor the economic contributions of the veteran and small business communities.