Program Applications Specialist

Description:

The position is located the Mann-Grandstaff VAMC, Spokane, WA. The incumbent serves as the integrator that coordinates the business process and software functions. The primary functions of this position ensures the business process is in place to support the implementation of new and updated information technology systems.

Requirements:

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement, 02/26/2026.

Time-In-Grade Requirement : Applicants who are current Federal employees and have held a GS grade any time in the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements by the closing date of this announcement. For a GS-9 position you must have served 52 weeks at the GS-7. For a GS-7 position you must have served 52 weeks at the GS-5. The grade may have been in any occupation, but must have been held in the Federal service. An SF-50 that shows your time-in-grade eligibility must be submitted with your application materials. If the most recent SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you possess one-year time-in-grade, as required by the announcement. In this instance, you must provide an additional SF-50 that clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade. Note: Time-In-Grade requirements also apply to former Federal employees applying for reinstatement as well as current employees applying for Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 (VEOA) appointment.


You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below:

For GS-7:

• Specialized Experience: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade GS-5 in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Examples of specialized experience would typically include, but are not limited to: Ability to read, interpret and follow VHA Directives to ensure accurate data entry, proper system usage, and compliance with organizational standards. Ability to use computerized software to support system updates, changes, testing, provide user support, and escalate complex issues. Ability to interact effectively with a diverse group of individuals and groups within and outside the facility by applying an assortment of written and oral communications techniques. Skill in organizing ideas and presenting finding in a logical manner. OR,
• Education: Applicants may substitute education for the required experience. To qualify based on education for this grade level you must have 1 full year of graduate level education or superior academic achievement. OR,
• Combination: Applicants may also combine education and experience to qualify at this level. You must have an combination of specialized experience and education as described above.

For GS-9:

• Specialized Experience: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade GS-7 in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Examples of specialized experience would typically include, but are not limited to: Extracting and analyzing data from automated systems to develop reports that identify trends, performance issues, or operational improvements. Skill in applying user acceptance testing principles, methods, and approaches sufficient to test, debug and maintain software applications that meet functional requirements. Resolving complex data discrepancies or system issues affecting workflow or reporting. Providing formal training or technical guidance to staff on system functionality and process improvements. A comprehensive knowledge in business metadata is needed to provide information related to continued business operations and external requests such as JCAHO, SOARS, and other internal audits. Skill and ability to utilize a variety of coordinating, coaching, consensus building and planning techniques to ensure that work is accomplished. Knowledge and skill in applying analytical and evaluation methods and techniques concerning the assessment and improvement of processes and systems. OR,
• Education: Applicants may substitute education for the required experience. To qualify based on education for this grade level you must have a master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., if related. OR,
• Combination: Applicants may also combine education and experience to qualify at this level. You must have an combination of specialized experience and education as described above.

Preferred Experience : Master Patient Index, Vista and computerized software packages and training experience

For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/ .