The application period will close on August 23, 2024 or once the first 200 eligible candidates with completed application packages have been received. This is an employee developmental program which is utilizing USA Jobs to accept and screen applications. You will stay in your current grade. You will not be reassigned, changed to a lower grade or promoted. Your current office will remain in charge of reporting your time and attendance.

Duties

You will be a Fellow and will act as a Policy Advisor to Congress and showcase the quality of the Department's workforce. You will be assigned to work in U.S Congress, physically located on Capitol Hill, for either of the following: VA congressional committee of jurisdiction, an office of a Member of Congress on a VA committee of jurisdiction, or an office of a Member of Congress on a non-VA committee of jurisdiction. The duties of the Fellowship will vary depending on the legislative and policy agenda of the specific assignment. The VA Congressional Fellowship Program is an Employee Developmental Program that is up to 12 months in duration and consists of three components: (1) training through the Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs (OCLA), (2) a legislative operations seminar through the Government Affairs Institute at Georgetown University, and (3) working on Capitol Hill. You may be required to work away from the Department of VA for a specified time not to exceed 12 months. You will be placed based on the assessed needs of the participating offices. You will most likely meet with your prospective office prior to the beginning of the program. You will learn the workings of the Legislative Branch of the federal government and will serve in a position that capitalizes on the education and experience gained. You will acquire an in-depth understanding of the legislative process that will help the VA interact more effectively with Congress. Please ensure to read this advertisement in its entirety before submitting an application. Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted. For purposes of this program, you will be considered a Fellow. Telework may be available on occasion but not guaranteed. You will remain on your home office's payroll while participating in the program. This fellowship program does not include a follow-on assignment. You will return to your original position at your home office. You may be required to sign a continuing service agreement containing additional criteria regarding the fellowship. This will be signed in mutual agreement between OCLA and the home program office of the fellow. There may be funding requirements for participation in the fellowship program. If you are selected for an interview, further information regarding the funding requirements for the fellowship program will be provided.

Requirements

Qualifications

Current permanent career or career-conditional Department of Veterans Affairs employees who are currently in a GS-12 through GS-14 position with strong written and oral communication abilities and a keen sense to detail, are encouraged to apply. Applications The application deadline is August 23, 2024. The application must contain: Resume (no longer than two pages) A one-page 250 words or less personal statement indicating how your skills and abilities apply to the program's purpose. Written supervisory approval which must include an electronic certificate signature. The memo must also include an understanding that your home organization is acknowledging that while your are attending the 2025 Congressional Fellowship Program, you will be absent from your current position for up to 12 months. Two letters of recommendation. Most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action. Most recent Performance Appraisal. Incomplete application packages will not be considered. Title 38 employees are not currently eligible for the program.

Education

This job does not have an education qualification requirement.

Contacts

• Address DAS Congressional Affairs 810 Vermont Ave Washington, DC 20420 US
• Name: VHA National Recruitment Center
• Phone: (844)456-5208
• Email: [email protected]