Job Summary

The position is responsible for the delivery of Whole Health Coaching and skill development of the Cincinnati VA Medical Center's Whole Health Coach program, including provision of care through coaching, promotion, education regarding Whole Health Coaching to Veterans and staff. The position is integral to supporting Whole Health Coaches and Veterans in navigating the Whole Health Journey, specifically through the Pathway, wellbeing and Whole Health clinical care elements of Whole Health care.

Job Description

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 06/19/2026. Basic Requirement: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook 5005 chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a Education and/or Experience: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in behavioral or social science or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR Combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field. OR Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field. Certification: Candidates must be currently certified by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Exception for Non-Certified Health and Wellness Coaches: Non-certified applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for certification, may be given a temporary appointment as Health and Wellness Coach under the authority of 38 U.S.C. § 7405(c)(2). Non-certified individuals may only provide care under the supervision of a certified Health and Wellness Coach at or above the full performance level or other designated occupation with the appropriate training and expertise. Non-certified individuals may only be appointed at the entry level and may not be promoted until certification is obtained. Temporary appointments of non-certified Health and Wellness Coaches may not be extended beyond one year or converted to a new temporary appointment. Note: If selected a non-certified candidate is selected, you will be expected to obtain the required certification within one year. GS-7 Qualifications: Specialized Experience: None beyond the basic requirements. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of health and wellness coaching processes and techniques. Ability to promote positive lifestyle choices. Ability to effectively communicate in writing through a variety of modalities. Ability to effectively communicate verbally/non-verbally. GS-9 Qualifications: Specialized Experience: At least one (1) full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GS-7) in the Federal Service, that is directly related to the work of the position and has equipped you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs). In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of current research literature related to health and wellness, including behaviors that promote a healthy lifestyle and well-being. Skill in using health and wellness coaching techniques to promote positive behavior change using one-on-one, couple or group modalities. Skill in exercising effective interpersonal communication techniques to develop and maintain strong interpersonal relationships. Ability to assist the client in developing a comprehensive personalized health plan based on a patient's action-oriented goals. Ability to identify resources internal and external to the organization that are necessary for achieving patient overall health and well-being goals. Ability to use information technology (IT) equipment and various/emerging technologies to carry out work responsibilities. Ability to document patient information using appropriate systems. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment. For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.