Four Things You Can Expect in a Post-military Career at VA

Here’s what to expect if you come work at VA.

By Contributing Authors

Job changes can be stressful — and transitioning to your first civilian career after life in the military only adds another layer of complexity.

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“Big stressors in life [are] death of a loved one, change of a job, moving and those kinds of things. So, of course, transitioning military is high up there,” said Darren Sherrard, associate director of recruitment marketing, in a recent broadcast on VA Careers social media channels.

At VA, we understand the challenges that come with that transition and work hard to make it easier. Our patients are Veterans, and many of our employees, are former military as well. Many of us have walked in your shoes.

Ready to pursue a career at one of the most Veteran-friendly employers in the country? Here are four things you can expect during your transition:

1.) Unwavering commitment to those who have served our country.

Our first priority is the millions of Veterans who rely on us for health care. We are dedicated to providing them with the high-quality care they deserve after putting their lives on the line for our country. This mission runs through everything that we do.

In the military, you worked alongside people committed to serving — and that won’t change at VA. Our employees start each day ready to make life better for the brave men and women who risk so much to protect our freedom and our country.

2.) Understanding of the skills you bring to the table.

We know how the skills you gained in the military translate to a civilian career and how you can put them to work at VA. Qualities like integrity, communication, leadership, and courage under pressure make you an ideal team member.

Through our transitioning military personnel initiative, we’ve developed a seamless pipeline into VA jobs. You don’t need a medical license for many of these jobs, and you’ll often be ready to step right into one after leaving the military.

3.) Excellent incentives on top of your military benefits.

You’re already eligible for an extensive list of benefits thanks to your military service. The generous benefits you’ll get as a VA employee are icing on that cake.

Paid vacation time that begins accruing on your very first day.
Anywhere from 13-26 paid days off your first year, depending on your profession.
Option to buy back your military service time and apply it to a civil service FERS pension.
Participation in the federal 401(k) with up to 5% in VA matching contributions.
Premium-support group health insurance, including dental, vision and long-term care, which may become effective on the first full pay period after you start.
Scholarships, repayment options and flexible work schedules that make it easier to continue your education.

4.) A feeling of camaraderie.

Many of our doctors, nurses, support staff and others are Veterans and transitioning military just like you. In fact, nearly one in three federal employees is a Veteran, and hundreds of thousands of them choose to work at VA.

Not only will many of your colleagues understand your background, but you’ll be caring for patients with similar stories. This shared camaraderie will help ease your transition into your post-military career.