Becoming a VA Employee
Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs employs people across three administrations: Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and National Cemetery Administration (NCA).
Pro Tip: Veterans get hiring preference at the VA. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em. At least you'll understand why the system is broken from the inside.
Common Positions
Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
- Legal Administrative Specialist (Contact Representative)
- Rating Veterans Service Representative (RVSR)
- Veterans Service Representative (VSR)
- Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
- Contact Representative
- Various healthcare roles
National Cemetery Administration (NCA)
- Cemetery Administrator
- Cemetery Administration Specialist
- Cemetery Caretaker
Special Hiring Program: WARTAC
The Warrior Training Advancement Course targets service members with 180 or fewer days remaining. Learn more
The Hiring Process
Step 1: Application
All VA positions post through USAJOBS.gov. The site allows filtering by administration, GS pay level, location, and more.
Resume Tips: - Use the USAJOBS resume builder - Tailor each resume to the specific position - Include 2+ pages demonstrating relevant experience - Use job descriptions as templates for your qualifications - Explicitly state all experience—hiring managers cannot assume competencies
Step 2: Waiting Period
Federal hiring timelines vary significantly.
Step 3: Notice of Results
HR sends qualification determination and qualified grade levels to the hiring manager.
Step 4: Interview
Qualified candidates may be invited to interview.
Pre-Interview Preparation: - Scout the location and travel time beforehand - Arrive 30 minutes early - Test technology for remote interviews - Prepare using Performance-Based Interviewing (PBI) framework
PBI Framework: The VA structures interviews around "Problem-Action-Results": - Problem: What challenge did you face? - Action: What did you do? - Results: What was the outcome?
Step 5: Post-Interview Assessment
Some positions include scenario-based written tests evaluating decision-making and thoroughness.
Step 6: Tentative Offer
HR sends an email confirming: - Vacancy Announcement Number - Position details (name, number, division) - Duty location - Pay grade and salary with locality pay - Probationary period expiration - Promotion potential
Critical: Complete all onboarding requirements by stated deadlines or the offer may be rescinded.
Step 7: Official Offer
After accepting, you receive first-day details and supervisor information.
Pro Tips
- Verify contact information accuracy on your resume
- Monitor email regularly and answer unknown calls
- Meet all deadlines—the VA expects quick responses despite slow hiring timelines
- Verify correct contact details to ensure reachability
FAQs
Can I request reconsideration if rated lower than expected? Yes, contact the HR representatives listed in your Notice of Results email.
Can I negotiate the start date? Yes, HR often accommodates later start dates upon request.