Launch Your Career in Healthcare Administration with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines professional growth with a sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly motivated Medical Support Assistant to join our team in Pocatello, Idaho. This position offers the unique opportunity to serve those who have served our nation while building a stable, rewarding career in the federal government.
Job Responsibilities
As a Medical Support Assistant (MSA), you are the heartbeat of the clinical administration team. Your daily tasks ensure that Veterans receive the care they need without unnecessary delays. Responsibilities include:
- Greeting patients and facilitating the check-in and check-out process.
- Managing clinical schedules, including booking, canceling, and rescheduling appointments.
- Coordinating with clinical staff to relay important medical messages.
- Maintaining accurate electronic medical records and verifying insurance information.
- Performing administrative tasks such as scanning documents and managing multi-line phone systems.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: A minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
- Proficiency: Demonstrated ability in written and spoken English.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a background investigation and required health screenings (TB and influenza vaccination).
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is competitive and ranges from $42,188 to $68,881 per year, depending on qualifications, grade level, and experience.
| Level | Experience/Education Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-4 | 1 year experience OR 1 year of college |
| GS-5 | 1 year experience OR 2 years of college |
Benefits
Federal employment with the VA comes with a robust benefits package designed to support your long-term success:
- Retirement: Traditional pension plan and federal 401(k) with agency matching.
- Insurance: Extensive choices for health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Work-Life Balance: Access to childcare subsidies and paid parental leave.
Application Tips
Success in the federal hiring process relies on accuracy. Ensure your resume highlights specific, quantifiable achievements. If you are using education to qualify, you must attach your transcripts. Remember to respond to the online questionnaire thoroughly, as these answers are used to determine your eligibility and rating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Veterans' Preference applicable to this job? A: Due to staffing shortages in this specific occupational series, Veterans' Preference is waived for external applicants through September 30, 2027.
Q: Do I need a clinical background? A: While knowledge of medical terminology is required, you do not need to be a clinical professional like a nurse or doctor. The role is administrative.
Working for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and service. If you are ready to apply your administrative talents in a supportive and impactful environment, we encourage you to submit your application by the closing date.
Why This Medical Support Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Veterans Health Administration as a Medical Support Assistant in Idaho.
Medical Support Assistant Job Overview
The Salt Lake City VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Medical Support Assistant to join the Pocatello Community Based Outpatient Clinic. In this vital role, you will serve as the first point of contact for Veterans, providing essential administrative support, coordinating patient appointments, and ensuring a seamless experience for those navigating their healthcare journey. You will work in a collaborative environment where your organizational skills directly contribute to the delivery of high-quality, compassionate care.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment TB examination.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Must undergo a background/security investigation.
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent certificate.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant
- Demonstrated knowledge of medical terminology.
- Proficiency in navigating office automation systems and electronic health records.
- Experience in customer service and appointment scheduling in a clinical setting.
- Ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Experience managing sensitive patient information (PII).
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
- ✓Generous paid time off (13-26 days of annual leave plus 13 sick days).
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year.
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for qualifying employees.
💡 How to Apply Medical Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and gather required documentation (SF-50, transcripts, etc.).
- Complete the online application and questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by the closing date.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire online assessment if prompted.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Include volunteer work if it helped you develop relevant skills.
- Double-check that you have attached all required documents, such as transcripts, before submitting.
- Set aside uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire assessment.
- Review your application before the closing date to ensure all responses are accurate and complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Medical Support Assistant at the VA?
MSAs provide administrative and clerical support to clinical teams. Duties include scheduling appointments, greeting patients, managing electronic records, and facilitating communication between providers and Veterans.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Pocatello Community Based Outpatient Clinic.
What level of education is required to qualify?
The minimum requirement is a high school diploma or GED. Additional education may be used to qualify for higher grade levels.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We provide care to over 9 million Veterans annually, adhering to our mission to honor the men and women who have served in our military. Working at the Salt Lake City VA Health Care System means joining a facility that prioritizes innovation, research, and comprehensive, whole-person care.