Grants Management Specialist: Serve Veterans in Charleston, SC

Introduction

Embark on a fulfilling career dedicated to supporting our nation's heroes. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively seeking a skilled and motivated Grants Management Specialist to join the Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Health Administration in Charleston, South Carolina. This vital role ensures the effective administration and oversight of research and compliance programs, directly contributing to the VA's mission of providing exceptional care to Veterans. If you possess a keen analytical mind, a commitment to accuracy, and a desire to make a difference, this federal opportunity offers a stable career path with meaningful impact.

About the Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in the nation's military. The VA provides a broad spectrum of services, including healthcare, benefits, and memorial services, to Veterans and their families. The Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Health Administration, located in Charleston, South Carolina, is a key component of this extensive network, delivering compassionate and comprehensive care to Veterans in the region. By joining the VA, you become part of a team that honors America's Veterans by providing exceptional and timely healthcare and benefits.

Job Responsibilities

The Grants Management Specialist plays a critical role in supporting the operational and programmatic success of the research and compliance divisions within the Ralph H. Johnson VHA. Your primary duties will involve:

Grant and Funding Assistance: Aid investigators in preparing complex and multifaceted VA research funding initiatives, ensuring all documentation meets regulatory standards.
Compliance Oversight: Facilitate thorough reviews of research projects involving human subjects, including the meticulous examination of informed consent documents to ensure adherence to VA and Institutional Review Board (IRB) regulations.
Policy Development: Analyze new or amended legislation and regulations to develop and refine policies governing programs, activities, and functions within the service's purview.
Program Analysis: Evaluate existing and proposed standards, regulations, programs, and policies for their impact, feasibility, practicality, and effectiveness. Provide clear recommendations for improvement.
Quality Assurance: Conduct quality assurance activities for research proposals and grants, identifying and addressing any non-compliance issues.
Reporting and Data Management: Prepare essential expenditure reports, such as the Research & Development Information System (RDIS II) report, detailing all research projects conducted during the fiscal year. Collect, compile, and track data, statistical information, and year-end expenditures to support program operations.
Data Integrity: Coordinate the planning, review, and reporting of program/project study data. Ensure data accuracy and completeness by entering and validating pertinent information into automated tracking systems and computerized databases, verifying its consistency with submitted proposals.
Communication: Effectively communicate grant-related issues, policy updates, and procedural changes to research staff and other stakeholders.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following essential requirements:

Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. Citizens.
Application Completion: All required steps in the application process, including the online questionnaire and any assessments, must be completed.
Time-In-Grade: Current Federal employees must meet the time-in-grade requirement of 52 weeks at the GS-07 level or equivalent.
Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Background Investigation: Successful completion of a background and/or security investigation is required.
Onboarding: Selected candidates will undergo an online onboarding process and must provide acceptable identification.
Vaccination Program: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory requirement.
Probationary/Trial Period: A one-year probationary period or a two-year trial period will be served to evaluate performance and suitability.

Qualifications

To qualify for the GS-09 Grants Management Specialist position, applicants must possess one of the following:

Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GS-07) in the Federal service. This experience should include applying analytical and evaluation techniques, reviewing complex documents for compliance, utilizing qualitative and quantitative analysis, and understanding relevant federal and agency laws, regulations, and policies. Experience in analyzing human subject protocols and ensuring study compliance is also crucial.
Education: A Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree, OR at least two full years of graduate study (or LL.B. or J.D. if related) that demonstrates the required competencies.
Combination: An equivalent combination of specialized experience and graduate-level education.

Salary Overview

The Grants Management Specialist position is graded at the GS-09 level. The annual salary range for this position is $61,722 to $80,243, depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience.

Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a robust benefits package for its employees, designed to support work-life balance and long-term career health. These benefits include:

Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options.
Paid Time Off: Generous accrual of annual leave (vacation) and sick leave, in addition to paid federal holidays.
Retirement: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) pension plan.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): A retirement savings and investment plan with potential agency matching contributions.
Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) options.
Professional Development: Opportunities for training, continuing education, and career advancement within the VA.

Application Tips

Resume: Ensure your resume is detailed, accurate, and specifically addresses the requirements and duties outlined in this announcement. Highlight relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. Remember to limit your resume to two pages.
Accuracy: Thoroughly answer all questions in the online questionnaire. Be honest and avoid exaggerating your qualifications.
Documentation: Submit all required documents, including your resume and SF-50 (if applicable), by the application deadline. Incomplete applications are typically not considered.
Federal Employees: If you are a current or former federal employee, carefully review the time-in-grade requirements and ensure your SF-50 submission clearly demonstrates your eligibility.
Assessments: Prepare for the online USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Utilize available practice resources to understand the format and types of questions you may encounter.
Reasonable Accommodation: If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessments, submit your request and necessary documentation well in advance of the assessment deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the salary range for this position?	The salary range is $61,722 to $80,243 per year.

| What is the application deadline? | The application closes on November 2, 2026. | | Do I need to be a U.S. Citizen? | Yes, U.S. citizenship is required. | | Can I qualify based on education alone? | Yes, you can qualify with a Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree, or two full years of graduate study. | | Is this a telework or remote position? | This is not a virtual position. Telework is available on an ad-hoc basis and is not guaranteed. | | What documents are essential for the application? | A resume and an SF-50 (for current/former federal employees to demonstrate time-in-grade) are required. Transcripts are needed if qualifying with education. | | Will I have to complete an assessment? | Yes, applicants are typically required to complete online USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. You will receive instructions on how to access them after submitting your application. |

Conclusion

This Grants Management Specialist position with the Department of Veterans Affairs offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization that profoundly impacts the lives of Veterans. By applying your expertise in grants management, compliance, and policy analysis, you will support critical research and operational integrity. If you are ready to leverage your skills in a role that honors service and commitment, we encourage you to apply. Join the VA team and be a part of something truly significant in Charleston, South Carolina.

Why This Grants Management Specialist Job Matters

Advance your career in public service by joining the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Grants Management Specialist in Charleston, South Carolina. Make a tangible impact by supporting vital research and compliance initiatives that honor our nation's Veterans.

Grants Management Specialist Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically the Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Health Administration, is seeking a dedicated Grants Management Specialist to join their team in Charleston, South Carolina. This role is crucial for ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of research and compliance programs. You will play a key part in managing complex grant initiatives, analyzing legislation, developing policies, and assuring compliance with federal regulations. If you are looking for a rewarding career where you can contribute to the well-being of Veterans, this opportunity offers a stable and impactful path forward.

Requirements for Grants Management Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must complete all required steps in the application process, including the online application, questionnaire, and any required assessments.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will need to complete an online onboarding process and provide acceptable forms of identification (e.g., REAL ID compliant documents).
Must participate in the Department of Veterans Affairs seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Must successfully complete a one-year probationary or two-year trial period to evaluate fitness and advancement of public interest.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
✓Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Federal retirement plan (e.g., FERS).
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency match.
✓Life insurance options.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.
✓Opportunities for career advancement within the VA system.
✓Support for work-life balance.

💡 How to Apply Grants Management Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Grants Management Specialist Job

Read the entire announcement and all instructions carefully.
Create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account.
Apply Online and complete the initial online application, including the questionnaire.
Select your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents, ensuring your resume is no more than two pages and clearly details your qualifications.
Attach all necessary supporting documentation (e.g., Resume, SF-50 if applicable, Transcript if using education to qualify).
Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date (11/02/2026).
If required, complete the online USA Hire Competency Based Assessments within the specified deadline. You will receive an email notification with a unique assessment access link.
Track your application status through your USAJOBS account, which will include assessment completion status and notifications from the hiring agency.
If referred, you may be contacted for an interview or asked to submit additional job-related information.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is detailed, up-to-date, and clearly demonstrates how your experience aligns with the specialized experience requirements and desired competencies. Limit your resume to two pages.
Accurately and thoroughly answer all questions in the application questionnaire. Do not overstate your qualifications.
Submit all required documents by the closing date. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
For current or former federal employees, ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your time-in-grade eligibility. If your most recent SF-50 is less than a year old, provide an additional SF-50 that demonstrates one year at the next lower grade.
Review the USA Hire assessment preparation resources to familiarize yourself with the testing format and content.
If requesting a reasonable accommodation for the assessments, submit your request and supporting documentation promptly.
Proofread your application materials for any errors or omissions before submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for the Grants Management Specialist position?

The salary range for this position is $61,722 to $80,243 per year.

What is the deadline to apply for this position?

The application deadline is November 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Do I need to be a U.S. Citizen to apply?

Yes, U.S. citizenship is a requirement for this position.

What type of education or experience is required?

You can qualify with one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 level, a Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree, or a combination of education and experience. Specialized experience includes skills in analysis, reviewing complex documents, understanding federal regulations, and managing compliance protocols.

Is this a telework or virtual position?

This position is not a virtual position, and telework is on an ad-hoc basis, not a standard arrangement.

What documents are required for the application?

A complete application package includes your Resume and an SF-50/Notification of Personnel Action (if applicable for time-in-grade or eligibility). Transcripts are required if qualifying based on education.