Myth-busting: You don’t have to be a Veteran to work at VA

A misconception about VA is that we only hire Veterans. While that may be one person’s experience, we’re back to do a little more myth-busting and tell you that we need all kinds of employees, Veteran and civilian alike.

As we continue to serve the most diverse group of Veterans in history, VA is committed to hiring staff from a variety of backgrounds. That can only be done by opening up opportunities to candidates with a broad range of experience and skills.

The Veteran experience

Because we value the special skills and unique perspectives Veterans bring to the table, there are unique benefits to applying for a job at VA as a Veteran. Veterans’ preference does apply to many positions at VA, and special hiring authorities like the Veterans Recruitment Appointment allow agencies to appoint specific groups of qualified individuals to positions.

However, not all positions can be filled by Veterans. Some jobs require a particular civilian expertise, while others are open to the public to offer us the best possible pool of candidates to choose from.

From application to acceptance

So how do you rise to the top of that applicant pool and get hired at VA?

In the course of our efforts to encourage you on your journey to a VA career, we have compiled a number of resources to help you along the path. The first and best thing you can do is familiarize yourself with the hiring process at VA so you know what to expect and what we expect from our applicants.

Then it’s time for you to get to work, and we have some tips and tricks that can help. Perhaps you want to freshen up your resume, and make sure the details you include in your application are relevant to the role you want on our team. We can also help you write your cover letter, and walk you through the interview process.

Whatever tools you may need, you can find many of the answers you’re looking for in other blog posts, as well as in episodes of our weekly “Talk About It Tuesday” broadcasts. Our website is also a great resource for exploring the jobs that are available at VA and the benefits we provide.

You have a place with VA

The road to a VA career may not always be easy. The federal application process is long, and it often takes several tries to get a first interview, let alone a job. But we want you to succeed in your quest to join our team.

VA is growing, and our plans to modernize our facilities and develop new locations in communities with increasing Veteran populations will mean more available positions. We need applicants like you to help VA continue to be one of “America’s Best Employers.”

Whether you’re a Veteran or civilian, your background and talents have a place at VA.

Work at VA

Don’t let the fact that you’re not Veteran deter you from applying at VA. Every day, candidates from a variety of backgrounds join our team and expand our expertise. Why shouldn’t you be one of them?

• READ more career advice on VAntage Point.
• WATCH our weekly “Talk About It Tuesday” broadcasts for tips.
• JOIN our communities on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Glassdoor.
• SEARCH for your new VA career at VACareers.va.gov.