Become a Staff Psychologist at the El Paso VA Health Care System

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class, compassionate healthcare to those who have served in our nation's military. The El Paso VA Health Care System is currently seeking a highly skilled Staff Psychologist to join our Behavioral Health Service. This is a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of our Veterans while enjoying a rewarding career path with excellent federal benefits.

Job Responsibilities

As a Staff Psychologist, you will operate as a member of the medical staff with clinical privileges. Your daily duties will include:

Conducting comprehensive psychological, cognitive, and neuropsychological assessments.
Providing evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions for individuals, families, and groups.
Offering crisis intervention and urgent walk-in support.
Consulting with professional staff regarding patient care plans.
Documenting clinical assessments and treatment plans effectively.
Participating in research, training, and program development activities.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
Internship: Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship.
Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology.
Professionalism: Must be proficient in written and spoken English and pass a security investigation.

Grade Level Comparison

Grade	Experience Requirement	Focus
GS-11	Entry Level	Meets basic education/internship requirements.
GS-12	Developmental	1 year of equivalent professional experience.
GS-13	Full Performance	2 years of professional experience, 1+ year at GS-12 level.

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive salary range between $88,479 and $163,941 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level. The VA is committed to providing regular salary increases and fair compensation based on professional experience.

Benefits

Working for the federal government comes with industry-leading benefits, including:

EDRP: Education Debt Reduction Program eligibility up to $200,000.
Time Off: Up to 50 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday leave per year.
Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
Healthcare: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Family Support: Paid parental leave and child care subsidies for qualifying families.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your clinical work, particularly with evidence-based therapies.
Use the Required Template: Ensure you use the standard Clinical Resume Document link provided in the vacancy announcement.
Follow Deadlines: All applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM ET on August 19, 2026.

Serving as a Staff Psychologist in El Paso is more than just a job; it is a way to give back to the men and women who have sacrificed for our country. With outstanding benefits and the opportunity for professional growth, this role provides the perfect setting to advance your career. Apply today through USAJobs.

Why This Staff Psychologist (Bhip) - Edrp/Recruitment/Relocation Approved Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by joining the El Paso VA Health Care System as a Staff Psychologist, where your expertise in mental health directly supports our nation's heroes.

Staff Psychologist (Bhip) - Edrp/Recruitment/Relocation Approved Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the Behavioral Health Service at the El Paso VA Health Care System. This role is ideal for a clinician passionate about evidence-based practice and veteran care. This position offers a highly competitive salary range of $88,479 to $163,941 per year, with eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) and potential recruitment/relocation incentives. Enjoy a vibrant professional life in El Paso, a city known for its rich culture, sunny climate, and proximity to scenic outdoor adventures.

Requirements for Staff Psychologist (Bhip) - Edrp/Recruitment/Relocation Approved

U.S. Citizenship
Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited graduate program
Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA (or equivalent)
Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. state, territory, or district
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
Completion of a background/security investigation
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program

Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist (Bhip) - Edrp/Recruitment/Relocation Approved

Experience in crisis intervention and risk management
Proven track record of working effectively within interdisciplinary clinical teams
Demonstrated expertise in evidence-based therapeutic modalities
Experience providing care to a veteran or military-affiliated population

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000
✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans
✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
✓Federal 401k-style thrift savings plan with up to 5% agency matching
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave plus 13 days of sick leave
✓11 paid federal holidays
✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees

💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist (Bhip) - Edrp/Recruitment/Relocation Approved Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Staff Psychologist (Bhip) - Edrp/Recruitment/Relocation Approved Job

Review the full vacancy announcement on USAJobs.
Prepare a resume that specifically addresses your clinical experience.
Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document via the VA Careers portal.
Log into your USAJobs account or create a new profile.
Upload your resume, transcripts, professional license, and other required documentation.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package before the deadline on August 19, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume; the hiring board does not make assumptions about your experience.
Ensure your transcripts are legible and include the graduation date.
Double-check that you have uploaded all required documents, including your state license.
Apply well before the closing date to avoid technical issues at the last minute.
Use the provided VA template for your clinical resume to ensure compliance with the application system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this is an onsite position located in El Paso, Texas, though limited ad hoc telework may be authorized.

Can I apply if I am not yet fully licensed?

Yes, non-licensed applicants may be appointed as a 'graduate psychologist' temporarily, provided they obtain full licensure within two years.

Does the VA offer assistance with student loans?

Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide reimbursement up to $200,000.

What is the EDRP?

The Education Debt Reduction Program is a VA initiative that provides student loan reimbursement for qualifying clinical staff.

Can I apply without a license?

Temporary appointments are available for non-licensed graduate psychologists if requirements are met, but full licensure is required within two years.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional care that helps them thrive. By working with the El Paso VA, you join a supportive community of professionals dedicated to the principles of Whole Health, innovation, and clinical excellence.