Launch Your Administrative Career with the VA in Long Beach

Are you searching for a career that combines administrative excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Long Beach, California, is currently seeking a dedicated Program Support Assistant to join the Diagnostic Imaging Service. This role is more than just an administrative position; it is a vital link in the chain of care that supports our nation's heroes. If you are organized, compassionate, and looking to contribute to a world-class healthcare system, this is your chance to make a difference.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Support Assistant, you will act as the backbone of the Imaging Healthcare Group. Your daily tasks will include:

Operational Support: Managing office calendars, distributing departmental communications, and handling logistics.
Records Management: Maintaining accurate electronic and paper files, including tracking logs and rosters.
Administrative Coordination: Preparing meeting minutes, agendas, and formal correspondence.
HR & Financial Support: Assisting with timekeeping, supply orders, and invoice processing.
Customer Service: Providing professional assistance to Veterans, providers, and other stakeholders.

Requirements

To be considered for this federal position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must complete the required online competency assessments.
Must be eligible for a background and security investigation.
For males born after 1959, registration with the Selective Service is required.
Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period.

Salary and Grade Comparison

This position is open at the GS-5 and GS-6 levels, offering competitive federal pay.

Level	Salary Range	Responsibility
GS-5	$47,490 - $68,819	Requires 1 year of specialized experience or 4 years education
GS-6	$47,490 - $68,819	Requires 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level

Benefits

Working for the VA offers a robust benefits package that sets it apart from the private sector, including:

Health Insurance: Multiple plan options to fit your family's needs.
Retirement: Excellent FERS pension plan and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with employer matching.
Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave, plus paid federal holidays.

Application Tips

Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use the official USAJOBS resume builder for best results.
Be Specific: Do not leave the hiring team guessing. Clearly list your duties and the hours worked per week in each role.
Prepare for Assessments: Set aside at least 3 hours for the online competency assessment and ensure you have a quiet environment.
Review Documents: Ensure all necessary SF-50s are uploaded to prove your time-in-grade if you are a current or former federal employee.

The role of a Program Support Assistant is essential to the successful operation of the VA's healthcare services. By providing the administrative support necessary for our medical staff to function, you directly impact the lives of Veterans. Apply today and start your journey toward a rewarding federal career.

Why This Program Support Assistant Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Diagnostic Imaging Service team at the VA Long Beach Healthcare System.

Program Support Assistant Job Overview

The Program Support Assistant plays a pivotal role in the daily operations of the Imaging Healthcare Group. By managing critical administrative workflows, organizing department records, and ensuring seamless communication across the team, you will contribute directly to the high-quality healthcare experience provided to our Veterans. This role is ideal for an organized professional who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment focused on whole-person wellness.

Requirements for Program Support Assistant

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Must complete an online competency-based assessment.
Must pass a pre-employment background/security investigation.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must be able to receive the annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an approved exemption.
Must serve a 1-year probationary period.
Must provide a valid, REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
Current or former Federal employees must provide an SF-50 demonstrating time-in-grade eligibility.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Support Assistant

Experience with administrative document management and record-keeping.
Proficiency in electronic health record systems such as VistA and CPRS.
Strong skills in Microsoft Office suite including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Experience managing office workflows, meeting agendas, and departmental correspondence.
Proven ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced medical environment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching.
✓Paid federal holidays and generous annual/sick leave accrual.
✓Access to ongoing professional training and career development programs.
✓Stable work environment with a mission-focused culture.

💡 How to Apply Program Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Support Assistant Job

Create or log in to your account at USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
Complete the online questionnaire and attach required documents (SF-50, transcripts if applicable).
Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Check your email for instructions regarding the mandatory online assessment.
Complete the assessment via the link provided in your notification.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet all formatting requirements.
Be specific and clear about your experience; do not leave room for the reviewer to make assumptions.
Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month/year) and hours worked per week.
Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
Set aside at least 3 hours to complete the online assessment in one sitting if possible.
Double-check your application status on the USAJOBS dashboard periodically.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of this role?

The Program Support Assistant provides administrative support to the Imaging Healthcare Group, ensuring that departmental activities such as scheduling, records management, and office logistics run efficiently.

Is a college degree required?

Not necessarily. While education can be used to qualify, you may also qualify through a combination of specialized administrative experience.

What are the specific resume requirements?

Resumes must be no longer than two pages and should explicitly state job titles, start/end dates, and average hours worked per week.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No. Federal agencies have updated their requirements, and any resume exceeding two pages may be disqualified.

What is the work schedule?

This is a full-time position, typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Is this a remote position?

No, this position requires physical presence in the Long Beach, California office.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is committed to providing exceptional care to those who have served in our military. The VA Desert Pacific Health Care Network emphasizes a Whole Health System, which empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being. By joining our team at the Long Beach facility, you become part of an environment dedicated to healing, respect, and service.