Job Description
The Program Support Assistant position at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, supports the Geriatrics and Extended Care (GEC) Division. Working in the Division Manager's office, you will handle administrative tasks that keep clinical and administrative operations aligned.
This role suits someone with strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and comfort using VA computer systems. You will use systems like VATAS, VISTA, HR Smart, ePAS, and Microsoft Office to manage time and attendance, track compliance, and prepare reports.
Duties include conducting quarterly documentation audits, monitoring corrective actions, and coordinating meetings.
Qualification
You may qualify based on specialized experience, education, or a combination of both, as described below.
- GS-5: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-4, including coordinating with staff across clinical and administrative areas, knowledge of privacy laws (HIPAA, Privacy Act), and familiarity with VA performance improvement and safety practices.
- GS-5 Education: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- GS-5 Combination: Equivalent combination of post-high school education and specialized experience.
- GS-6: One full year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and VA systems like VistA, VATAS, BMS, and HR Smart.
- GS-6: Experience with scheduling systems, time and leave policies for Title 5 and Title 38 employees, and reconciling complex schedules.
- GS-6: Data entry, document formatting, proofreading, and written communication using VA standards.
- Experience must be fully documented on your resume, including job title, duties, month/year start and end dates, and hours per week.
- Part-time experience is credited based on actual time spent; clearly indicate duties and hours.
- Volunteer work, including National Service programs, counts as qualifying experience.
- Transcripts required if using education to qualify.
Role Responsibilities
Conduct quarterly documentation audits and track trends in program compliance.
- Generate and analyze key performance reports to identify operational gaps or strengths.
- Maintain a database of corrective actions and monitor closure timelines.
- Provide basic policy interpretations and prepare procedural updates for staff.
- Coordinate and document monthly compliance and performance review meetings.
- Build and maintain operational databases and tracking systems.
- Use VA computer systems including VATAS, VISTA, HR Smart, ePAS, and Microsoft Office.
- Manage correspondence, prepare agendas, and maintain time-sensitive documents.
- Support the Division Manager's office with administrative tasks.
- Interface with clinical and administrative staff across the division.
Conditions & Requirements
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selective Service registration required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Complete online onboarding process and provide acceptable identification (REAL ID compliant after May 7, 2025).
- Participation in seasonal influenza vaccination program required for VA Health Care Personnel.
- Serve a 1-year probationary period.
- Work is primarily sedentary; occasional walking, standing, and lifting under 25 lbs.
- Complete an online assessment as part of the application process.
Benefits
Complete federal benefits package including health insurance, retirement, and paid leave.
- Eligibility for benefits depends on position type and work schedule.
- Contact the hiring agency for specific benefit details.
How to Apply
To apply, you must complete the online application process through the official application portal. Start by creating an account or logging in to your existing the official application portal account. Follow the prompts to select your resume and other supporting documents. Answer all questions in the application questionnaire and attach all required documentation. Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM.
Additional Information
This position is filled using Direct-Hire Authority (5 CFR 337.205), so traditional Veterans' Preference rules do not apply, but qualified veterans receive full consideration.
- The Fair Chance to Compete Act prohibits requesting criminal history before a tentative job offer.
- Reasonable accommodation is available for applicants with disabilities.
- VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply, including Schedule A eligible candidates.
- Contact Kathryn Jiles at (447) 246-9109 or [email protected] for questions.
- The address is Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, 5000 West National Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53295.
- Resumes longer than two pages will result in ineligibility.
- Your responses to USA Hire Assessments may be reused for one year.
About Company
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, providing healthcare services to Veterans across the country. The Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee is one of its facilities, offering a range of medical and support services. This position is within the Geriatrics and Extended Care Division, which focuses on the unique needs of aging Veterans.
FAQs
What is the work environment like for this Program Support Assistant role at the Milwaukee VA?
The work is primarily sedentary, performed at a computer workstation. You will work in the Geriatrics and Extended Care Division's main office, with occasional walking between administrative and clinical areas. Lifting of records or supplies under 25 lbs. may be required.
Can I qualify for this job with education instead of experience?
Yes, for the GS-5 level, you can qualify with a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree. For GS-6, you need specialized experience at the GS-5 level. A combination of education and experience may also qualify you.
What is the selection process after I apply?
After the announcement closes, your application package is reviewed for qualifications. If you meet the requirements, you may be referred to the hiring manager. You may be contacted for an interview or asked for additional information. Pre-employment reference checks may be conducted.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, telework is not eligible for this position. The role is onsite at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
What are the main duties of this role?
This position is located at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center Milwaukee Wisconsin in the Geriatrics and Extended Care (GEC) Division. Incumbent will be assigned to work in the Division's main office. The incumbent will receive direction from the Supervisory Program Specialist and is responsible for providing administrative suppor…