What program allows SMs to receive OJT for a VA job while still on Active Duty?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 24 Oct 2020 11:48:15 -0400

Does anyone know what the program is called where sm's can receive ojt for a VA job while on Active Duty. Once you complete the training you are offered a GS job with the VA but you have no say in where you go.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Oct 24 at 2020 12:41 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Sat, 24 Oct 2020 12:41:30 -0400

Internship programs? Common for all the Federal agencies, you need to be going to school, do your side training at the agency, but there is no guarantee of future employment. In reality, our interns that we let return were typically placed in a position when they graduated. Most times it was a career ladder position where they continue to develop, do more complex tasks, and then receive noncompetitive promotions. Our career ladders usually went GS-7-9-11 or GS-9-11-12 , depending on the degree. Not being invited back is usually a telling sign. You are not a FLSA employee as an intern and have no rights to anything. USAJOBS has lots of internship opportunities. We liked intern programs because you could quickly see who had a brain and was a hard worker.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Oct 24 at 2020 4:50 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sat, 24 Oct 2020 16:50:58 -0400

The program does exist, it does not come with a guarantee of employment. The military continues to pay the salary for up to 6 months, after which, should you qualify and the organization have a position you can direct higher. It is for all Federal agencies not the VA alone.