Advance Your Career as a Program Analyst with the VA

Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise with a profound sense of purpose? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Program Analyst to join the Contracts Management and Performance (CMP) team within the Integrated External Networks (IEN) directorate. This role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of healthcare operations for those who have served our country.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Analyst, you will serve as a key resource for the CMP directorate. Your primary responsibilities include:

Program Evaluation: Analyzing contractor performance and oversight processes to identify risks, trends, and opportunities for efficiency.
Data-Driven Improvement: Utilizing Lean Six Sigma and other methodologies to resolve operational challenges and improve program effectiveness.
Strategic Analysis: Developing KPIs and dashboards to ensure data integrity and inform leadership decision-making.
Compliance Monitoring: Reviewing policies, regulations, and contract requirements to ensure that quality assurance and surveillance plans are consistently met.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Experience: You must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level. This experience must show you can analyze program performance, interpret healthcare laws, and communicate findings effectively.
Probationary Period: All selected candidates must complete a one-year probationary period.
Health Requirement: Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment.

Comparison: Role Expectations

Feature	Expectation
Experience Level	GS-12 (One year at GS-11 equivalent)
Work Environment	Primarily sedentary, in-person (Lakewood or D.C.)
Travel Requirement	Occasional travel for training and meetings
Education	None required (Experience-based)

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary range starting at $89,508 up to $133,142 per year. Compensation is determined by the selected duty location (Lakewood, CO or Washington, D.C.) in accordance with federal pay scales.

Benefits

Working for the VA provides access to a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Predictable work schedules with a Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. window.
Generous paid annual and sick leave.
Access to robust health insurance and federal retirement plans.
A mission-driven environment where your work directly impacts Veteran healthcare outcomes.

Application Tips

Resume Management: Effective September 2025, resumes must be two pages or less. Focus on concise, results-oriented language.
Documentation: Ensure all supporting documents (SF-50, transcripts, DD-214) are uploaded correctly before the closing date of October 30, 2026.
Assessment Readiness: Be prepared for the online competency-based assessment. Set aside at least three hours of uninterrupted time.

The role of a Program Analyst at the VHA is both demanding and deeply rewarding. By providing the analytical rigor required to manage complex healthcare networks, you ensure that our Veterans receive the high-quality care they have earned. If you have the drive, compassion, and professional skills required, we encourage you to apply today.

Why This Program Analyst - Contracts Management And Performance (Cmp) Job Matters

Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Program Analyst and play a pivotal role in ensuring our nation’s heroes receive the high-quality care they deserve through effective contract and performance management.

Program Analyst - Contracts Management And Performance (Cmp) Job Overview

The Integrated External Networks (IEN) directorate is seeking a dedicated Program Analyst to join the Contracts Management and Performance (CMP) team. In this role, you will be instrumental in evaluating healthcare program effectiveness, conducting rigorous data analysis, and driving operational improvements that directly impact the delivery of services to Veterans. Whether based in Lakewood, Colorado, or Washington, D.C., you will collaborate with leadership and stakeholders to resolve complex program challenges and ensure compliance with federal standards.

Requirements for Program Analyst - Contracts Management And Performance (Cmp)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent).
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must reside within or be willing to relocate to a commutable distance of the duty location.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Successful completion of a one-year probationary period.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Analyst - Contracts Management And Performance (Cmp)

Demonstrated expertise in Lean Six Sigma and Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) methodologies.
Strong background in analyzing healthcare operational data to identify performance trends and deficiencies.
Proven ability to translate complex regulations and contract requirements into actionable standard operating procedures.
Proficiency in developing and managing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and analytical dashboards.
Excellent communication skills for stakeholder management and executive briefing.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Generous paid time off and leave programs.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Predictable and flexible scheduling opportunities.
✓Federal retirement benefits.
✓Life insurance and long-term care insurance programs.
✓Potential for annual leave accrual credit based on prior federal or military service.

💡 How to Apply Program Analyst - Contracts Management And Performance (Cmp) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Analyst - Contracts Management And Performance (Cmp) Job

Log in to your USAJOBS account.
Review the full announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Submit your application and all required supporting documents before the closing date.
Monitor your email for a potential invitation to complete the USA Hire assessment.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder for optimal formatting.
Quantify your experience; be specific about hours worked per week and duties performed.
Keep your contact information updated.
Check your spam or junk folder for notifications regarding the USA Hire assessment.
Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote or virtual position?

No, this is not a virtual position. You must work from or relocate to either Lakewood, CO, or Washington, D.C.

Is education a substitute for the experience requirement?

No, there is no educational substitution for this grade level; you must possess the required specialized experience.

What happens if I forget to submit my DD-214?

If you are claiming veterans' preference, failure to provide the necessary documentation will prevent the award of that preference. Always double-check your document upload.

What is the primary focus of this role?

This role focuses on overseeing contract performance and operational efficiency within the IEN directorate to improve healthcare delivery to Veterans.

Can I use my military service to gain credit for annual leave?

Yes, selected applicants may qualify for service credit for annual leave accrual based on prior federal or military service; this must be requested prior to your appointment.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As an employee of the VHA, you become part of a compassionate community that prioritizes service, excellence, and the well-being of Veterans. Working at the VA offers not just a job, but a career defined by gratitude and the opportunity to make a tangible difference.