Advance Your Medical Career as an Ophthalmologist at the Truman VA
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Ophthalmologist to join the team at the Harry S. Truman VA Medical Center in Columbia, Missouri. This position offers a unique blend of high-acuity clinical practice, academic teaching opportunities, and the unmatched job security of the federal civil service. If you are a board-certified or board-eligible specialist looking to provide transformative care for Veterans, this could be the ideal next chapter for your career.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead clinical eye care services with a focus on comprehensive management of ophthalmic disorders. Key duties include:
- Direct Patient Care: Perform clinical exams, diagnose, and prescribe treatment plans for a wide range of eye-related illnesses.
- Surgical Expertise: Conduct and supervise surgical ophthalmologic interventions and laser procedures.
- Consultation: Serve as an expert consultant to primary care providers.
- Clinical Leadership: Engage in quality assurance and peer review programs to maintain high clinical standards.
- Academic Contribution: Educate staff, patients, and healthcare trainees in the management of ophthalmic disorders.
Requirements
To be considered for this vital role, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A doctoral degree in medicine (MD/DO) from an accredited medical school.
- A full, unrestricted medical license.
- Completion of an approved residency program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $300,000 - $375,000 |
| Schedule | Monday - Friday (8:00 AM - 4:30 PM) |
| Student Loan Aid | Up to $200,000 via EDRP |
| Benefits | Full federal package (Health, Pension, PTO) |
Salary and Benefits
Physicians at the VA are supported by a comprehensive "Total Rewards" package. Beyond the competitive base salary, you will receive:
- Loan Repayment: The Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) offers significant support for those carrying student loans.
- Paid Time Off: Between annual leave, sick leave, and holidays, employees enjoy substantial time off.
- Retirement: Benefit from a dual-component retirement plan including a traditional pension and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure you use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA and submit your application through the official portal before the closing date. Take time to document your clinical supervision experience clearly, as this is a preferred attribute for this role.
Serving as an Ophthalmologist at the Truman VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the wellbeing of those who have sacrificed for our country. With competitive compensation, extensive benefits, and a professional environment that encourages growth, this position stands out as an exceptional opportunity in the field of ophthalmology. Apply today to secure your future at the VA.
Why This Physician (Ophthalmologist) Job Matters
Advance your medical career at the Harry S. Truman VA Medical Center, where your clinical expertise directly supports those who have served our nation.
Physician (Ophthalmologist) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Ophthalmologist to join the clinical team in Columbia, Missouri. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive eye care within a high-complexity, state-of-the-art facility. You will enjoy a stable federal career, a competitive salary, and the satisfaction of delivering essential health services to America's Veterans.
Requirements for Physician (Ophthalmologist)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine or surgery in any U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Completed residency training in an accredited core specialty program.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Successful passage of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Ophthalmologist)
- Board certification in Ophthalmology.
- Experience in supervising Ophthalmology residents.
- Demonstrated ability to meet ACGME requirements for clinical supervision.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with performance bonus potential
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Generous paid time off: 26 days annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 federal holidays
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal pension and 401(k) retirement savings with 5% matching
- ✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage
💡 How to Apply Physician (Ophthalmologist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician (Ophthalmologist) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the required VA Clinical Resume template provided on the VA Careers website.
- Upload the standardized resume to the 'Resume' section and your full CV to the 'Other' documents section.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly follows the two-page document requirement specified for this series.
- Double-check that your license is currently active and unrestricted.
- Clearly highlight your experience with clinical supervision and academic training programs.
- Monitor your email for status notifications after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP, providing student loan reimbursement of up to $200,000 based on program approval and eligibility.
What is the work-life balance like at the Truman VA?
The role follows a standard Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm schedule with no restrictive moonlighting clauses and access to extensive paid time off.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families." The Truman VA Medical Center in Columbia is a center of excellence, serving over 40,000 Veterans with a complexity level of 1c. Located in a vibrant academic and community hub, the center provides a wide array of specialized medical services and supports training across multiple healthcare disciplines.