Lead Medical Support Assistant: A Rewarding Career at the Pittsburgh VA
Are you looking for a career that combines leadership, medical administration, and a commitment to service? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is hiring a Lead Medical Support Assistant at the University Drive Pittsburgh VA Medical Center. This role is essential for ensuring that Veterans receive timely, high-quality care within our surgical services department. If you are an organized leader with a background in clinical administration, this could be your next professional chapter.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Medical Support Assistant, your day-to-day operations will be both challenging and rewarding. You will:
- Coordinate Patient Flow: Manage appointment scheduling and monitor clinic utilization to maximize access to care.
- Lead and Mentor: Provide on-the-job training, distribute workloads, and assist supervisors in resolving workplace issues.
- Administrative Oversight: Serve as a subject matter expert for systems such as VISTA, CTM, and Secure Messaging.
- Resolve Conflicts: Act as a liaison between administrative staff, patients, and interdisciplinary clinical teams.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
- Language: Proficiency in English (written and spoken) is required.
- Trial Period: Successful candidates must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-7 level. The salary range for this role is outlined in the table below.
| Position Level | Pay Scale | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Medical Support Assistant | GS-7 | $54,533 - $70,895 |
Benefits
The VA offers a robust benefits package to its employees, reflecting the importance of your role in the healthcare system. Benefits include health insurance, retirement planning, generous leave accrual, and opportunities for long-term career growth within the federal government.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Use your resume to provide clear examples of your experience with clinical scheduling and team leadership.
- Follow Instructions: Ensure all required documentation—such as your transcript and any necessary veterans' preference forms—is attached.
- Preparation: If prompted for a USA Hire assessment, prepare by utilizing the online resource center to familiarize yourself with the format.
Serving those who have served is more than just a job; it is a calling. Join the Pittsburgh VA team and use your leadership skills to help coordinate life-changing medical support. Apply by November 5, 2026, to take the first step toward this impactful role.
Why This Lead Medical Support Assistant Job Matters
Ready to advance your career while supporting those who served? Become a Lead Medical Support Assistant at the Pittsburgh VA and lead the way in interdisciplinary patient care.
Lead Medical Support Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Lead Medical Support Assistant to join our Surgical Care team at the University Drive Pittsburgh VA Medical Center. In this pivotal role, you will act as a subject matter expert in administrative patient support, guiding clinical flow processes, mentoring staff, and ensuring our Veterans receive the high-quality, compassionate care they deserve.
Requirements for Lead Medical Support Assistant
- United States Citizenship
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Subject to background and security investigation
- Must complete an online onboarding process
- Annual seasonal influenza vaccination
- Successful completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Medical Support Assistant
- One year of experience equivalent to the GS-6 grade level
- 1-2 years of experience with VA Scheduling Programs
- Proven leadership ability in managing workflows and staff development
- Advanced knowledge of medical terminology and clinical flow processes
- Expertise in VISTA, VSE, and other VA administrative systems
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive Federal Salary
- âś“Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- âś“Retirement savings plans
- âś“Paid annual and sick leave
- âś“Federal holiday pay
- âś“Opportunities for career advancement within the VA
- âś“Professional development and training programs
đź’ˇ How to Apply Lead Medical Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Medical Support Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Carefully review the entire job announcement.
- Prepare your resume and gather required documentation (e.g., transcripts, SF-50).
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
- Attach all necessary supporting documents.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on November 5, 2026.
- Monitor your email for potential USA Hire Assessment notifications.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly articulates how your experience meets the GS-7 specialized requirements.
- Check for typos and formatting errors, as incomplete applications may be disqualified.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Utilize the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to prepare for assessments.
- Keep your contact information updated in your USAJOBS profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of a Lead Medical Support Assistant?
You will manage complex administrative tasks, coordinate clinical flow, train new staff, and serve as a liaison between patients and medical teams.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and is not eligible for telework.
Are there any specific vaccination requirements?
Yes, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory for all VHA health care personnel unless an exemption is granted.
What if I don't have all my education documents yet?
*A: You may be tentatively selected, but you must provide all required documentation before your start date.*
Is there any flexibility in the schedule?
*A: The shift is 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and is not authorized for compressed or flexible schedules.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. Working for the VHA means being part of a mission-driven team that prioritizes the health and well-being of our heroes. You will be part of an interdisciplinary environment where innovation, integrity, and compassion are at the forefront of every action.