Launch Your Federal Career: Transportation Assistant at the VA
Are you looking to transition into a meaningful career that honors our nation's Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for a detail-oriented professional to join the team in Iron Mountain, Michigan, as a Transportation Assistant.
Job Responsibilities
As a Transportation Assistant, you are the backbone of the Veteran Transportation Service (VTS). Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Logistics Planning: Coordinating travel for eligible Veterans to and from medical appointments.
- Regulatory Compliance: Auditing claims to prevent fraud and ensuring all transportation expenses meet federal guidelines.
- Accounting: Maintaining electronic and manual records for fund control points.
- Communication: Serving as the point of contact for doctors, nurses, and patients regarding transportation status.
Comparison: Standard vs. Federal Transportation Roles
| Feature | Standard Private Sector Role | VA Transportation Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Profit/Cost Reduction | Patient-Centered Mission |
| Benefits | Varying | Comprehensive Federal Package |
| Job Security | Market Dependent | High (Federal Merit System) |
| Impact | Client Satisfaction | Supporting Veteran Health |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-06 position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level.
- Documentation: Current federal employees must provide an SF-50 documenting their one-year time-in-grade.
- Vaccination: Participation in the annual seasonal influenza program is mandatory.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $45,409 to $59,031 per year. The salary is established by the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale, which includes annual cost-of-living adjustments and opportunities for progression.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy robust benefits, including health insurance plans, life insurance, and a retirement program that includes the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching. Additionally, employees earn generous vacation time and sick leave.
Application Tips
- Edit Ruthlessly: Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less.
- Align Language: Mirror the terminology used in the job announcement to ensure your application passes screening tools.
- Use the Builder: The USAJOBS resume builder is the safest way to ensure your resume meets formatting standards.
Serving the Veterans of Iron Mountain is a noble path that offers professional stability and personal reward. If you possess the organizational and administrative skills required, we encourage you to submit your application package before the November 2nd deadline.
Why This Transportation Assistant Job Matters
Are you passionate about supporting our nation's Veterans? Join the team at the Oscar G. Johnson VAMC and play a pivotal role in ensuring our heroes get to where they need to be.
Transportation Assistant Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Transportation Assistant to join the Veteran Transportation Service (VTS) in Iron Mountain, Michigan. In this essential role, you will coordinate complex transportation logistics, forecast workloads, and implement quality improvements to ensure seamless travel for Veterans accessing care. You will serve as the primary point of contact for clinical and administrative staff, managing everything from eligibility verification to audit-ready documentation.
Requirements for Transportation Assistant
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 grade level.
- Current federal employees must meet 52-week time-in-grade requirements.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation.
- Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must be willing to serve a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
- Submission of resume limited to two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Transportation Assistant
- Demonstrated ability to communicate complex instructions clearly to diverse staff.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and medical center automated systems.
- Experience with Computerized Patient Record Systems (CPRS) and scheduling software.
- Familiarity with medical center consult management and patient processing workflows.
- Strong problem-solving skills for high-stress, clinical administrative environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary with step increases.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits, including TSP matching.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the VHA system.
💡 How to Apply Transportation Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Transportation Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a two-page maximum resume using the USAJOBS resume builder.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including your most recent SF-50 and relevant certifications.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of 11/02/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to remain eligible.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your formatting aligns with federal requirements.
- Submit your most recent SF-50 that clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade.
- Be specific in your narrative regarding how your experience maps to the job duties.
- Save your resume as a PDF to maintain strict formatting standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary range for this position is $45,409 to $59,031 per year, depending on qualifications and grade eligibility.
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is not a virtual position. The work must be performed on-site at the Oscar G. Johnson VAMC in Iron Mountain, MI.
What is the resume length limit?
Per current federal hiring guidelines, resumes must be two pages or less to be considered eligible for this vacancy.
What if I have prior military service?
Veterans are encouraged to apply and may be eligible for Veterans' Preference. Be sure to include your DD-214.
Is there a probation period?
Yes, there is a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period for new federal employees.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VHA is committed to President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have borne the battle. Working at the Oscar G. Johnson VAMC means joining a team dedicated to excellence, compassion, and innovation in Veteran care.