Become a Paralegal Specialist with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a legal professional looking to transition into a mission-driven federal role? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is hiring a Paralegal Specialist at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. This position is a unique opportunity to apply your analytical skills to support the health and readiness of our military personnel and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As a Paralegal Specialist, your primary focus will be on the claims recovery program. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Claims Investigation: Analyzing medical records, police reports, and insurance documentation to establish third-party liability.
- Legal Research: Performing research into tort law and insurance regulations to support legal claims.
- Case Documentation: Drafting demand letters and rebuttal correspondence to ensure the government’s right to recovery is upheld.
- Administrative Support: Managing the claims database, maintaining files, and handling essential clerical tasks that keep the department running smoothly.
Comparison: GS-07 vs GS-09 Requirements
| Feature | GS-07 | GS-09 |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | 1 year specialized experience | 1 year specialized experience |
| Education Substitute | 1 year graduate study | Master's degree or 2 years graduate study |
| Scope of Duties | Assist in claims investigation | Evaluate facts and claim values |
Qualifications
To qualify, you must possess relevant experience or education that demonstrates your ability to perform the duties of the role. Whether you have professional experience in a law firm, insurance company, or government agency, your background should reflect high attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $56,715 to $90,190. Additionally, the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including health insurance, a retirement plan (FERS), and generous leave accrual. For those new to federal service, there may even be room to negotiate your starting salary and leave accrual based on your professional background.
Application Tips
Applying for federal jobs requires precision. Keep your resume to two pages or less, ensure you include hours worked per week for every position listed, and always attach proof of your credentials. If you are qualifying based on education, do not forget to include your official transcripts.
Joining the Defense Health Agency as a Paralegal Specialist is an excellent way to serve those who serve us. With competitive benefits and a clear career path, this is a role where your analytical and legal talents will be valued. Start your application today to join a team dedicated to excellence.
Why This Paralegal Specialist Job Matters
Advance your career in legal services while supporting the critical healthcare mission of the Defense Health Agency at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
Paralegal Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) Office of General Counsel is seeking a motivated Paralegal Specialist to join their team at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. This role is essential to the agency's ability to manage medical claims and protect government interests through careful investigation, research, and legal support. Ideal for professionals with a background in claims investigation and case management, this position offers the opportunity to provide high-level administrative and legal assistance within an integrated healthcare organization serving over 9.5 million service members and their families.
Requirements for Paralegal Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Resume must be two pages or less.
- Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must register with the Selective Service.
- Must meet specialized experience or education requirements for GS-07 or GS-09 levels.
- Must meet time-in-grade requirements if currently holding a GS position.
- Successful completion of required online assessments.
Preferred Qualifications for Paralegal Specialist
- Experience in investigating third-party liability or medical insurance claims.
- Proficiency in conducting multi-jurisdictional legal research.
- Knowledge of tort law and federal insurance regulations.
- Experience in database management and complex document analysis.
- Strong communication skills for drafting legal correspondence and demands.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Accrual of paid annual and sick leave.
- ✓Potential for salary and leave accrual negotiations for new federal employees.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.
- ✓Access to various federal work-life balance programs.
💡 How to Apply Paralegal Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Paralegal Specialist Job
- Review the full announcement on USAJobs carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting specialized experience.
- Collect proof of eligibility documents (e.g., transcripts, SF-50s).
- Click the apply link to complete the questionnaire and upload required documentation.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on November 12, 2026.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessments within the designated timeframe after submission.
- Monitor your status through the USAJobs dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions hours worked per week for each role, as this is vital for qualification verification.
- Use plain, professional language; avoid industry jargon or unexplained acronyms.
- Double-check your transcript submission; if you are qualifying based on education, missing transcripts will disqualify your application.
- Complete the USA Hire assessments as soon as possible to avoid technical issues near the deadline.
- Review the 'Who May Apply' section to ensure you have attached the specific proof of eligibility for your hiring authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, depending on agency policy and requirements.
Can I negotiate my salary?
Yes, salary and leave accrual negotiations may be available for candidates who are new to the Federal government.
How long should my resume be?
Your resume must be two pages or less. Applications with resumes exceeding this length will not be considered.
What is the security clearance for this role?
This position requires a Secret clearance and is designated as a Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk position.
Is this a remote role?
No, the role is based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, although it is eligible for telework.
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system responsible for providing medical, dental, and pharmacy services to over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. As part of the Office of General Counsel, you will contribute to a strategic mission that ensures the legal and administrative integrity of these essential healthcare programs.