Become a Program Analyst with the Defense Health Agency
Are you looking for a career that combines technical analysis with a mission of national importance? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring a Program Analyst to join the TRICARE Health Plan (THP) team. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the healthcare delivery system that supports nearly 10 million service members, retirees, and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As a Program Analyst, your daily duties will be both challenging and rewarding. You will play a key role in:
- Contract Analysis: Monitoring contract performance and providing data-driven recommendations for improvement.
- Strategic Development: Assisting in the development of operational projects and change order development.
- Coordination: Representing the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) in technical meetings.
- Reporting: Establishing reporting protocols for senior leadership to monitor project status and contract changes.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, candidates must demonstrate:
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the federal government.
- Time-in-Grade: You must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the GS-12 level if you are a current GS employee.
- Documentation: A resume of two pages or less.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Mandatory (U.S. Only) |
| Education Substitution | Not Allowed |
| Resume Length | Maximum 2 Pages |
| Security Clearance | Not Required |
| Probationary Period | 1 Year |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $108,001 to $158,322 per year. This salary includes applicable locality pay based on your selected duty location.
Benefits
Employees of the DHA enjoy the full suite of federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Federal employee pension programs.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for remote work or telework based on agency policy.
Application Tips
Competition for federal roles is high. Ensure your success by:
- Tailoring your resume: Use the exact terminology found in the 'Specialized Experience' section of the announcement.
- Double-checking formatting: If your resume hits 2.1 pages, it will be discarded. Be concise.
- Tracking statuses: Use the USAJobs portal to track your application after submission.
Joining the Defense Health Agency as a Program Analyst is a significant step toward a rewarding federal career. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about supporting our military community, apply through the USAJobs portal today.
Why This Program Analyst Job Matters
Advance your career with the Defense Health Agency and play a pivotal role in optimizing healthcare delivery for 9.5 million service members and their families.
Program Analyst Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is seeking a highly skilled Program Analyst to join the TRICARE Health Plan (THP) team. This role is essential for analyzing contract performance, developing operational projects, and coordinating critical reporting protocols. Based in San Diego, CA, Fort Benning, GA, San Antonio, TX, or Falls Church, VA, you will work closely with the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of medical, dental, and pharmacy programs across the Department of Defense.
Requirements for Program Analyst
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must have one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
- Must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade (if a current or former GS employee).
- Must be able to successfully complete a probationary period.
- Resume must not exceed two pages; longer resumes will be automatically excluded.
- Must pass all required online assessments via the USA Hire system.
Preferred Qualifications for Program Analyst
- Demonstrated experience in monitoring contract performance and providing actionable improvement recommendations.
- Proven ability to assist in the development of complex operational projects.
- Expertise in working with a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) on policy and reporting protocols.
- Strong analytical skills regarding contract financing and program changes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay adjustments.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within a massive, integrated healthcare system.
- ✓Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy.
- ✓Stable federal employment benefits including retirement and insurance programs.
- ✓Meaningful work supporting the readiness and well-being of the Joint Force.
💡 How to Apply Program Analyst Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Analyst Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting relevant specialized experience.
- Gather proof of eligibility (SF-50s, transcripts, or veteran documentation).
- Click the Apply Online button and complete the required questionnaire.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for a notification containing the link to the USA Hire assessment.
- Complete the required assessments within the designated timeframe.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; extra pages will lead to disqualification.
- Use plain, clear language; avoid excessive jargon or internal acronyms.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the number of hours worked per week for each position.
- Set aside at least two hours of uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire assessment.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my degree to substitute for experience?
No, for this position, you must qualify based on experience alone.
Is the resume length really important?
Yes, absolutely. Resumes exceeding two pages will be automatically removed from consideration without review.
Are there multiple duty locations for this role?
Yes, this position is available in San Diego, CA; Fort Benning, GA; San Antonio, TX; or Falls Church, VA.
How do I know if I am eligible to apply?
*A: The announcement lists specific authorities like VEOA, Military Spouse, and Career Transition. Review the 'Who May Apply' section carefully.*
What is the USA Hire Assessment?
*A: This is a competency-based exam required for many DHA roles. Once you submit your application, keep an eye on your email for the test link.*
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is the primary engine behind healthcare for the Department of Defense. As an integrated health system, the DHA enables combat support to the Joint Force while simultaneously delivering medical, dental, and pharmacy services worldwide. By joining the DHA, you become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to readiness, health, and medical excellence.