Maybe you’re a student, experienced healthcare worker, or administrative specialist that is considering how to land a position at your local VA hospital. Seeking a job in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) can be a very smart career move. Healthcare occupation roles are projected to grow much faster than average, with about 1.9 million openings per year expected in the next decade due to both growth and replacement needs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health system in the U.S. and operates around 1,380 health care facilities, including about 170 VA medical centers and 1,193 outpatient clinics, serving over 9.1 million enrolled veterans.2 As of 2025, the VA supports an immense workforce of more than 371,000 healthcare professionals and support staff across its system.2
In this guide, we’ll explain what makes VA hospital jobs unique, how to apply for a VA hospital position, and why working at a VA hospital can offer meaningful benefits.
The VA Hospital: Organization Background
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA), which is part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), is the nation’s largest integrated health care system.2 As of 2025, it operates about 1,380 facilities nationwide, including around 170 VA medical centers and 1,193 outpatient clinics, serving over 9.1 million enrolled veterans.2
The VA pioneered the use of electronic health records (EHR) beginning in the late 1970s, which helped influence the wider U.S. healthcare system’s shift to digital recordkeeping.3 Today, the VA continues to modernize through its Electronic Health Record Modernization (EHRM) program, which is designed to improve care coordination and streamline health services for veterans across the country.4
As of fiscal year 2024, the VHA provided more than 125.7 million health care appointments, which was a 6% increase from the previous year.5 Over $187 billion in benefits was delivered to over 6.7 million veterans.5
How Competitive Are VA Hospital Jobs?
Getting a job at a VA hospital is competitive, but very achievable with the right preparation. The VA employs more than 371,000 people across healthcare and support roles, and many positions prioritize hiring veterans under federal hiring preference rules.2 Most VA hospital jobs require U.S. citizenship; however, the VA may hire non-citizens for certain healthcare positions if no qualified citizens are available, provided they meet education and licensing requirements.
Hiring timelines for the VA (along with other similarly bureaucratic institutions) can take 60 to 120 days from application to onboarding, depending on the role and the background checks required. Planning ahead and preparing documents early can improve your chances of moving through the process smoothly.
How to Apply for a Job at the VA Hospital
Applying for a VA hospital job requires careful preparation and good attention to detail. Here are some of the key steps:
- Search for open positions. Visit USAJOBS.gov or VA Careers to browse the current openings that match your skills and interests.
- Review job requirements. Each posting lists education, licensing, and experience requirements. Be sure that you meet the criteria before applying.
- Prepare your resume and documents. Federal applications require a detailed resume that highlights your specialized experience. You may also need transcripts, licenses, and supporting documentation.
- Write a tailored cover letter. Highlight your skills, experience, and commitment to serving veterans through a personal cover letter. This is the opportunity to explain how your qualifications match the position.
- Follow application instructions carefully. Most applications are submitted online through USAJOBS, though some postings may outline alternative application processes.
- Submit on time. Deadlines for the VA (and federal government) tend to be strict. Late or incomplete applications are not considered, so ensure everything is uploaded before the application closing date.
The VA application process can take several weeks to several months. Qualified candidates may move on to an interview, background check, and additional screenings before they receive an offer
VA Hospital Application Process
The VA hospital application process has specific requirements for each role. Job postings outline the education, licensing, and experiences that are needed, and applicants are evaluated against these criteria and other competing candidates. After submitting your application through USAJOBS.gov or the VA Careers portal, qualified candidates may advance to the interview round and background checks.
VA Hospital Interview Questions
To prepare for an interview, it helps to practice both general and role-specific questions in mock interviews. Here are some examples of commonly asked questions in VA hospital interviews:
- How do you handle difficult work situations? Be ready to share a real example and the steps that you took to resolve it.
- Why do you want to work for the VA? Show your motivation to support our veterans and explain how your skills align with the organization’s mission.
- What is your vision for your future at the VA? Describe how you would like to contribute to the VA’s long-term goals and how this position fits into your professional growth.
- How would you react to an unfamiliar work situation? Highlight your adaptability and emotional intelligence.
- Tell me about your professional experiences. This is the opportunity for you to give your ‘elevator pitch’. Summarize your career path, highlight your relevant skills and brag on your accomplishments.
Again, we want to emphasize that this is often a slow process. Hiring can take 60 to 120 days depending on the position and required clearances. Preparing your documents in advance and practicing interview responses can help streamline the process.
What’s It Like to Work at the VA Hospital?
The federal government offers a wide range of employment opportunities for veterans and civilian professionals to work at VA hospitals. VA hospitals are often diverse, progressive work environments that emphasize quality patient care and innovation. Many facilities foster a strong sense of community, with supportive teams and opportunities for professional growth.
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with extensive federal employee benefits. These may include:
- Health insurance. Full medical, dental, and vision coverage under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program. Employees can choose from multiple plans, and coverage includes preexisting conditions.
- Retirement plans. Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which provides pension benefits after five years of service, along with the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which is similar to a 401(k).
- Education and training. Programs such as the VA National Education for Employees Program (VANEEP), the Health Professional Scholarship Program (HPSP), and the National Nursing Education Initiative (NNEI) support continuing education for employees while they are working.
- Professional development. Leadership training, mentorship, and the VA’s Leadership Development Framework (LDF) help employees to advance their careers.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Employees can pay for certain medical and dependent care expenses with pre-tax funds.
Diversity and Inclusion – The Department of Veterans Affairs is an equal opportunity employer and invests in building inclusive workplaces.
Administrative Training – Management-level employees often receive specialized training before taking on leadership roles. These programs can include leadership development seminars, employee management courses, and continuing education opportunities to strengthen administrative skills.
VA Hospital Career Opportunities: Job Titles and Descriptions
There are a wide range of VA hospital careers for healthcare professionals, administrators, and support staff. Below are some common VA hospital jobs, with updated salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, reputable salary websites, and VA postings as of 2025.
General Cardiologist
- Salary: About $115,600 to $385,000 is the annual wage for cardiologists6
- Benefits: Health insurance, life insurance, flexible retirement plan
- Requirements: Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO); Board Certification preferred
- Role: Provides inpatient and outpatient cardiac care, oversees treatment plans, and supervises other healthcare providers.
Psychiatrist
- Salary: About $115,600 to $336,000 median annual wage for psychiatrists6
- Benefits: Flexible spending accounts, life insurance, health insurance
- Requirements: MD or DO degree, completion of psychiatry residency, board certification
- Role: Evaluates and treats veterans with psychiatric conditions, conducts therapy and medication management, and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams.
Medical Director
- Salary: VA postings list salaries from $130,000-$304,000, depending on location and specialty6
- Benefits: Health insurance, life insurance, retirement plan
- Requirements: MD or DO degree; leadership experience preferred
- Role: Oversees clinical operations, supervises medical staff, and ensures quality standards across services.
Executive Director
- Salary: About $144,000-$222,000, depending on GS level and location7
- Benefits: Paid time off, health insurance, life insurance
- Requirements: Typically requires IT management experience; some roles prefer advanced degrees
- Role: Manages IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and systems that support delivery of veteran healthcare.
Neurologist
- Salary: About $115,600 to $336,000 median annual wage for neurologists6
- Benefits: Paid time off, malpractice coverage, health insurance
- Requirements: MD or DO degree; board eligible or certified in neurology
- Role: Provides inpatient and outpatient neurology consultations, conducts diagnostic tests, and collaborates with care teams.
Chief Nursing Officer
- Salary: About $135,200 is the average for senior nursing administrators8
- Benefits: Health insurance, retirement plan
- Requirements: Nursing degree (BSN or higher), typically 7+ years of professional nursing experience
- Role: Advises senior management, oversees nursing operations, develops policies, and manages staff performance.
Clinical Pharmacist
- Salary: About $151,000-$195,000 median annual salary range for pharmacists9
- Benefits: Paid time off, liability protection, health insurance
- Requirements: Bachelor’s in Pharmacy or Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD); state license
- Role: Manages patient medication therapy, monitors safety and effectiveness, and advises providers on prescribing.
Engineering Technician
- Salary: About $71,000 is the annual wage for engineering technicians10
- Benefits: Paid time off, health insurance
- Requirements: Certification from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) preferred
- Role: Supports hospital construction and engineering projects, using tools like AutoCAD and Revit.
Student Trainee for Health Professions
- Salary: Stipends vary, but they typically hover around $27.40 per hour for trainee roles12
- Benefits: Educational assistance
- Requirements: Enrollment in a qualifying college or university program
- Role: Gains hands-on training in healthcare provision and administration while pursuing an academic degree.
Nursing Assistant
- Salary: About $46,000 is the average annual wage for nursing assistants11
- Benefits: Health insurance, long-term care options
- Requirements: At least one year of post-secondary study with relevant coursework or certification (CNA)
- Role: Provides daily care and support to veteran patients under the supervision of a registered nurse.
What Does It Take to Get a Job at the VA Hospital?
Getting a job at a VA hospital requires patience and preparation. The hiring process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the position and the background checks thar are required.
To improve your chances, make sure you:
- Meet eligibility requirements. Most positions require U.S. citizenship, though some healthcare jobs may consider non-citizens if there are no qualified citizens available.
- Satisfy education and licensing standards. Roles such as physicians, nurses, and pharmacists require valid degrees and professional licenses. Administrative and support positions may have less stringent requirements.
- Prepare a strong federal resume. VA applications use the USAJOBS format, which is specific and requires detailed descriptions of your experience, certifications, and accomplishments.
- Plan for the timeline. The process can take 60 to 120 days from application to onboarding, so apply early and follow up whenever possible.
While the process is lengthy, those who qualify can access rewarding, mission-driven careers helping veterans receive the care they deserve.
How to Get a Job at the VA Hospital FAQ
Absolutely. Working at a VA hospital can be a rewarding career choice. Employees often report strong benefits, opportunities for advancement, and the chance to serve veterans who have dedicated their lives to the country.
VA hiring timelines will vary by role, but most applicants wait at least 60 to 120 days from the application to the first interview, depending on position type and required background checks.
Yes, the VA conducts background checks on most new hires, especially for healthcare, administrative, and security-sensitive positions. These background checks may include employment history, education, criminal history, and credit history.
Review the job description carefully, practice potential interview questions, and highlight how your experience aligns with the VA’s mission to serve their veterans. Bring multiple copies of your required documents, dress professionally, and arrive early to allow time to check in and get settled before your interview.
References
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/
- https://www.va.gov/health/aboutVHA.asp
- https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/development-electronic-health-record/2011-03
- https://digital.va.gov/ehr-modernization/
- https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-delivered-all-time-record-care-and-benefits-to-veterans-in-fiscal-year-2024/
- https://www.va.gov/OHRM/Pay/2023/PhysicianDentist/AnnualPayRanges_20230101.pdf
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salary/US-Department-of-Veterans-Affairs-Executive-Director-Salaries-E41429_D_KO34,52.htm
- https://www.indeed.com/cmp/US-Department-of-Veterans-Affairs/salaries/Chief-Nursing-Officer
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salary/US-Department-of-Veterans-Affairs-Clinical-Pharmacist-New-York-City-Salaries-EJI_IE41429.0,33_KO34,53_IL.54,67_IM615.htm
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salary/US-Department-of-Veterans-Affairs-Engineering-Technician-Salaries-E41429_D_KO34,56.htm
- https://www.indeed.com/cmp/US-Department-of-Veterans-Affairs/salaries/Nursing-Assistant
- https://www.indeed.com/cmp/US-Department-of-Veterans-Affairs/salaries/Student-Trainee
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
