Become a Senior Psychologist Program Manager at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center
Are you a seasoned clinical leader looking to make a profound difference in the lives of our nation's heroes? The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia, is inviting applications for a Senior Psychologist Program Manager. This high-level position offers the unique opportunity to shape mental health policy, lead multidisciplinary teams, and improve the efficiency of care for Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Psychologist Program Manager (GS-15), you will serve as a key architect for mental health services. Your responsibilities will include:
- Strategic Oversight: Managing large, complex clinical programs, including budget, fiscal, and human resource management.
- Policy Development: Participating in executive-level discussions and decision-making regarding regional mental health services.
- Program Integration: Ensuring clinical and administrative functions work in harmony across outpatient clinics, inpatient settings, and residential rehabilitation centers.
- Leadership: Mentoring staff, overseeing training programs with university affiliates, and fostering an environment of recovery-focused care.
Comparison: Standard vs. Senior Leadership Roles
| Feature | Standard Psychologist | Senior Program Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Direct Patient Care | Strategy & Management |
| Scope | Individual/Group Therapy | Program/System Operations |
| Management | Clinical Supervision | Administrative & Budgetary |
| Grade Level | Typically GS-11 to GS-13 | GS-15 |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Education: Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice.
- Experience: At least four years of professional experience, including one year at the GS-14 level (or equivalent).
- Standards: You must pass a pre-employment physical and remain compliant with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Salary Overview
This position is categorized at the GS-15 level. Successful candidates will enjoy a competitive annual salary ranging from $146,481 to $190,424, commensurate with experience and federal pay regulations.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA offers an industry-leading benefits package:
- Financial Support: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) with up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
- Work-Life Balance: 13β26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Family Focus: Paid parental leave and available childcare subsidies.
- Retirement: Traditional federal pension and a 401K-style plan with up to 5% agency matching.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Ensure you download and use the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA.
- Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your experience in managing budgets and interdisciplinary teams in your resume.
- Be Detailed: Federal hiring managers look for evidence of specific competencies. Use the KSA section to outline your management successes.
If you are ready to transition your career into a high-impact leadership role within the VA, this position offers the perfect blend of mission-driven work and professional growth. Apply through USAJobs today to help shape the future of Veteran mental health care.
Why This Senior Psychologist Program Manager Job Matters
Lead transformative mental health initiatives and drive excellence in patient care at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia.
Senior Psychologist Program Manager Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a highly skilled Senior Psychologist Program Manager (GS-15) to oversee comprehensive mental health services. You will provide strategic leadership, manage fiscal operations, and guide clinical program development across a wide catchment area to ensure our nation's Veterans receive world-class, recovery-focused care.
Requirements for Senior Psychologist Program Manager
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology (APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited)
- Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Background and security investigation clearance
- Completion of pre-employment physical examination
- Participation in seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Psychologist Program Manager
- 10+ years of experience as a mental health provider
- 3+ years of documented experience in a leadership or management position
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex clinical programs and interdisciplinary teams
- Skill in strategic planning, budgeting, and systems analysis
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βEducation Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility
- βCompetitive salary with regular increases
- βGenerous Paid Time Off (13-26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 federal holidays)
- βPaid Parental Leave
- βChild Care Subsidy program
- βFederal retirement pension and 401K with 5% matching
- βComprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
π‘ How to Apply Senior Psychologist Program Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Psychologist Program Manager Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and prepare required documents (Resume, License, Transcripts).
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package online before the cut-off date.
π‘ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; the VA does not make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your license is current and uploaded clearly.
- Submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment if interested.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided in the job post.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site leadership position at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia.
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary for this GS-15 position ranges from $146,481 to $190,424 per year.
Does this role qualify for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers reimbursement up to $200,000 based on eligibility.
What is the first cut-off date for this position?
The first review of applications is scheduled for December 18, 2025.
Can I apply for this position if my license is from a different state?
Yes, as long as it is a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincolnβs promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working at the VA means joining a mission-driven organization that values compassion, integrity, and clinical excellence.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Application
- β Apply Online
- β VA Qualification Standards
- β YouTube: VA Careers Psychologist
- β EDRP Support Email
- β Benefits Information
- β Education Verification
- β Foreign Qualifications Info
- β I-9 Acceptable Documents
- β Application Status
- β Clinical Resume Template
- β Application Questionnaire Preview
- β Fair Chance Act Information
