Launch Your Healthcare Career as a Medical Support Assistant at the VA
Are you passionate about helping others and providing exceptional customer service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for a dedicated Medical Support Assistant—often known as a Red Coat Ambassador—to join the team at the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) in Hampton, Virginia. This role is essential for ensuring that our Veterans receive the compassionate, efficient, and high-quality care they deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As a Red Coat Ambassador, you are the first point of contact for many of our patients. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Greeting Veterans, family members, and visitors.
- Clarifying services and helping individuals navigate the facility.
- Assisting with the immediate needs and questions of patients.
- Documenting information, managing appointments, and handling patient inquiries.
- Ensuring the protection of sensitive patient information in compliance with the Privacy Act.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Key Qualification Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Entry-level, high school diploma or equivalent |
| GS-4 | One year of experience, emphasis on customer interaction |
| GS-5 | Advanced, experience with health records and scheduling |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Proficient in English (spoken and written).
- Willingness to undergo a background and security investigation.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical.
- Commitment to the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $39,215 to $64,027 annually. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy an extensive federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous leave accrual (annual and sick leave).
- Federal retirement benefits, including a 401K-style plan with government matching.
- Paid parental leave and childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is detailed and reflects your specific experience in customer service and medical settings. Do not assume hiring managers know your duties; be explicit about your skills and accomplishments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I submit my application? A: Applications must be submitted online through the USAJOBS portal by 11:59 PM ET on November 9, 2026.
Q: What is the trial period? A: All new hires are required to serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate their performance and fitness for the role.
Working as a Medical Support Assistant in Hampton is more than just a job; it is a way to support the brave men and women who have served our country. If you are ready to make a positive impact, apply today.
Why This Medical Support Assistant (Red Coat Ambassador) Job Matters
Make a difference in the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the patient experience team as a Red Coat Ambassador in Hampton, Virginia.
Medical Support Assistant (Red Coat Ambassador) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a compassionate and professional Medical Support Assistant (Red Coat Ambassador) to join the Patient Advocate Office at the Hampton VAMC. In this role, you serve as the face of the facility, providing guidance, ensuring high-quality customer service, and facilitating smooth interactions between Veterans, their families, and medical staff. This position is vital for maintaining a welcoming and efficient environment within our healthcare facilities.
Requirements for Medical Support Assistant (Red Coat Ambassador)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Subject to background and security investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Support Assistant (Red Coat Ambassador)
- Experience in customer-facing roles within a medical or clinical setting
- Proficiency with office automation software and electronic health records
- Knowledge of medical terminology
- Strong conflict resolution and communication skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive salary with regular increases
- âś“Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- âś“Generous paid time off (up to 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave)
- âś“11 paid Federal holidays per year
- âś“Federal pension and 401K-style retirement plan with matching contributions
- âś“Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- âś“Childcare subsidies for eligible families
đź’ˇ How to Apply Medical Support Assistant (Red Coat Ambassador) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Support Assistant (Red Coat Ambassador) Job
- Create or log in to your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume documenting your relevant work and volunteer experience.
- Gather necessary documentation, including SF-50 forms for current/former federal employees and academic transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of November 9, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—detail your experience with dates and clear descriptions of your responsibilities.
- Ensure all your documents are uploaded in the correct format before hitting submit.
- Check your application status regularly through your online portal account.
- Ensure your state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant as per current federal requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Red Coat Ambassador do?
A Red Coat Ambassador serves as a primary point of contact for Veterans and visitors, helping them navigate the medical facility, clarifying service information, and ensuring a welcoming, patient-centered experience.
Is this position eligible for telework?
The position is eligible for ad-hoc telework as needed, though it is primarily an on-site, patient-facing role at the Hampton VAMC.
What is the typical work schedule?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. We provide comprehensive care to those who have served in our nation’s military. By joining our team, you become part of an organization 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."