Become a Purchasing Agent with the Department of Veterans Affairs
Are you looking for a career that combines your administrative and procurement expertise with a meaningful mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a motivated Purchasing Agent to support the Supply Management Service Line in Grand Junction, Colorado. This role is essential to our ability to provide high-quality, efficient care to those who have served our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Purchasing Agent, you will serve as a key point of contact for supply and service acquisition. Your primary duties will include:
- Executing small purchases and delivery orders for medical supplies and construction services.
- Collaborating with medical staff to identify procurement needs and set priorities.
- Conducting market research to identify reliable sources and best-value vendors.
- Resolving discrepancies in shipments, invoices, and payment processing.
- Monitoring expenditures to identify potential waste, fraud, or abuse.
- Preparing contract modifications and formal correspondence for audit purposes.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 grade level.
- Submit a two-page maximum resume.
- Complete all required online competency assessments.
- Pass a background investigation and, if male, register for the Selective Service.
Salary and Comparison
This role is graded at the GS-6 level. The following table highlights the financial and operational scope of the position:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $45,409 - $59,031 per year |
| Location | Grand Junction, Colorado |
| Schedule | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Security Level | Non-sensitive / Low Risk |
Benefits
The VA provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Robust healthcare, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Federal retirement planning via the FERS program.
- Generous annual leave, sick leave, and paid federal holidays.
- Support for professional growth and skill enhancement.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is clear and results-focused. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet formatting requirements, including the two-page limit and font guidelines. Document all experience thoroughly, being sure to list hours worked per week for every position held.
Serving as a Purchasing Agent for the VA is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans. If you possess the organizational skills and dedication required for this role, we encourage you to apply before the closing date. Take the next step in your federal career by joining our team in Grand Junction today.
Why This Purchasing Agent Job Matters
Join the Veterans Health Administration in Grand Junction and play a vital role in ensuring our nation's heroes receive the care they deserve through efficient procurement operations.
Purchasing Agent Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to join the Supply Management Service Line in Grand Junction, Colorado. In this role, you will facilitate the acquisition of essential medical supplies, equipment, and services that support our mission of providing world-class health care to Veterans. You will utilize small purchase procedures, handle delivery orders, and manage vendor relationships to ensure that our clinical teams have the resources they need to excel.
Requirements for Purchasing Agent
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
- Successful completion of a one-year probationary or two-year trial period
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Submission of a resume that does not exceed two pages
- Completion of required online assessments
- Possession of one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-5 grade level
Preferred Qualifications for Purchasing Agent
- Proficiency with automated supply and inventory management systems
- Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word and Excel
- Demonstrated ability to resolve complex shipment or payment discrepancies
- Experience performing market research for medical equipment procurement
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with medical staff
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Employee assistance programs
- ✓Work-life balance with a consistent Monday-Friday schedule
💡 How to Apply Purchasing Agent Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Purchasing Agent Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Review the job announcement and required documents section thoroughly.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all supporting documentation before the closing date.
- Complete any required USA Hire Assessments if prompted via email.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific job titles, duties, and the number of hours worked per week for each entry.
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Avoid overstating qualifications; the agency will verify all claims.
- If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 clearly demonstrates time-in-grade eligibility.
- Set aside at least three hours for the online assessment; it is a critical component of the evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in Grand Junction, Colorado, and is not a virtual or remote role.
What is the maximum length allowed for my resume?
Per agency policy, resumes must be two pages or less. Resumes exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Are there physical requirements for this job?
The role involves standard office activity such as sitting, standing, and walking. No special physical demands or pre-employment physical exams are required.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional care that improves their health and well-being. By joining our team, you contribute to a system that prioritizes compassion, integrity, and operational excellence.