Launch Your Federal Career as a Purchasing Agent with the VHA
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative expertise with a meaningful mission? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) at the Fredericksburg Health Care Center is currently accepting applications for a Purchasing Agent. This position offers a stable career path within the federal government while serving those who have sacrificed for our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Purchasing Agent, your daily tasks will revolve around the procurement cycle. Key responsibilities include:
- Procurement: Conducting purchases within the simplified acquisition threshold using open-market procedures or GSA schedules.
- Coordination: Liaising between clinicians, vendors, and Veterans to fulfill specialized equipment requests.
- Compliance: Adhering to FAR, VAAR, and VHA directives for all acquisitions.
- Database Management: Utilizing complex systems to track orders, manage records, and reconcile charges.
Requirements
Applicants must meet specific federal standards, including:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Vaccination: Mandatory participation in the seasonal influenza program.
- Resume Limit: Resumes must be two pages or fewer.
- Time-in-Grade: Current federal employees must have 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $46,610 - $67,543 per year |
| Work Schedule | Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm |
| Telework | Ad-hoc eligibility |
| Promotion Potential | Up to GS-6 |
Application Tips
To stand out, tailor your resume specifically to the competencies listed in the job announcement. Ensure all SF-50s are current and clearly verify your time-in-grade. Save your application documents as PDFs for the best results.
Serving as a Purchasing Agent for the VHA is a rewarding way to build a federal career. With competitive pay and the knowledge that your work directly supports our Veterans, this role is an excellent opportunity for motivated professionals. Ensure your application is submitted by November 16, 2026.
Why This Purchasing Agent Job Matters
Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Purchasing Agent and play a vital role in ensuring our Veterans receive the life-enhancing prosthetic and sensory aids they depend on.
Purchasing Agent Job Overview
The Fredericksburg Health Care Center is seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to join our Prosthetics & Sensory Aids team. This position serves as a critical link in the procurement process, facilitating the acquisition of medical equipment, surgical implants, and sensory support devices. You will work closely with clinicians and Veterans to ensure eligibility and compliance with federal acquisition regulations, directly contributing to the quality of life for those who served our nation.
Requirements for Purchasing Agent
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Must comply with annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements for VHA personnel.
- Current federal employees must meet 52-week time-in-grade requirements for their current GS level.
- Ability to provide valid, REAL ID-compliant identification.
Preferred Qualifications for Purchasing Agent
- Experience in a healthcare administrative or clinical support setting.
- Proven history of maintaining accurate medical records or procurement logs.
- Proficiency with government acquisition databases and purchasing software.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate with multiple vendors and clinical stakeholders.
- Strong interpersonal skills to handle sensitive requests from Veterans and their families.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS)
- ✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- ✓Flexible work arrangements (ad-hoc telework eligibility)
💡 How to Apply Purchasing Agent Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Purchasing Agent Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Review your resume to ensure it is limited to a two-page maximum.
- Prepare required documents, including your most recent SF-50 and academic transcripts.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire linked within the announcement.
- Upload all documents in PDF format to maintain formatting.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on results-oriented language rather than just listing duties.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one full year of time-in-grade if applying as a federal employee.
- Use standard, legible sans-serif fonts like Arial or Helvetica.
- Verify your eligibility early to ensure you have all necessary proofs of veterans preference or transcripts ready.
- Double-check your application status in the portal after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of this role?
You will manage the procurement of prosthetic and sensory aid equipment, verifying Veteran eligibility and ensuring all purchases comply with VA acquisition directives.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position offers ad-hoc telework options at the discretion of the supervisor, though it is not a fully remote role.
Are there strict page limits for the resume?
Yes, federal agencies now require resumes to be a maximum of two pages to comply with the Merit Hiring Plan.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military. Within the VHA, the Prosthetics & Sensory Aids Service is vital for providing Veterans with the equipment they need to maintain their health and independence.