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.
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 10/10/2025. Permanent VA employees with at least two years of service working for the Department of Veterans Affairs, who are GS-12 through GS-14 with strong written and oral communication abilities and a keen sense to detail, are encouraged to apply. The application must contain: One to two-page resume. A one-page 250 words or less personal statement indicating how your skills and abilities apply to the program's purpose. Written supervisory approval. 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
The VA Office of Congressional & Legislative Affairs (OCLA) Congressional Fellowship program offers individuals a unique opportunity to further serve our nation and deepen their understanding of public policy through participation in the legislative process. The fellowship offers participants to work in the legislative branch of the federal government for one session of Congress. The program provides an unmatched opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the daily operations, activities, discussions and decisions on Capitol Hill, gaining invaluable first-hand experience while offering congressional offices their unique VA perspective and expertise. Fellows are placed with a congressional office or committee for a 12 month period, starting January 2026, and are given work equivalent to that of a congressional legislative aide or higher. By the end of the program, fellows will establish a professional network on Capitol Hill, understand how Congress operates, and acquire skills and expertise to further enhance the VA mission upon their return. The VA OCLA Congressional Fellowship Program is an Employee Developmental Program that is 12-15 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 12-15 months. Your placement on the Hill will be based on your background and 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. Your will remain on your home office's payroll while participating in the program. Your home office will be responsible for: Any relocation costs or payroll adjustments. Any travel while participating in the program or during the application and training period. You will be responsible for determining your home office's ability to fund your participation in the fellowship program prior to applying which requires supervisory approval to meet the program's eligibility requirements. You will be responsible for setting up your own living accommodations. 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.