Lead Surgical Excellence at the Central Alabama VA
Joining the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as a Chief of Surgery is more than a career move; it is a commitment to the men and women who have sacrificed for our nation. The Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System is currently looking for an experienced and visionary Chief of Surgery with a background in podiatry to lead our surgical department in Montgomery, Alabama. This position offers a unique balance of high-level clinical practice and strategic administrative management.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief of Surgery, you will be the cornerstone of our surgical department. Your responsibilities include:
- Administrative Leadership: Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the surgical service, including general surgery, urology, podiatry, orthopedics, ophthalmology, and anesthesia.
- Clinical Excellence: Participating directly in patient care through clinics, operative procedures, and hospital rounds.
- Strategic Oversight: Coordinating complex operating room schedules, managing surgical budgets, and ensuring performance measures are met.
- Mentorship: Facilitating the orientation and training of clinical staff and recruiting top-tier medical talent.
- Quality Management: Serving as a primary driver for quality/outcome measurement tools and facilitating surgical peer reviews.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-impact role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A degree in podiatric medicine from an approved school.
- Completion of an accredited surgical residency.
- An unrestricted license to practice podiatry.
- Proven ability to obtain surgical privileges.
- Proficiency in English and completion of pre-employment physical requirements.
Comparison: Role Expectations
| Feature | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Leadership | High (Departmental Oversight) |
| Clinical Focus | High (Surgery/Clinic/Rounds) |
| Administrative | High (Budget/Personnel/Quality) |
| Work Schedule | Core 8-4:30 (Potential 24/7 coverage) |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is competitive, ranging from $200,000 to $400,000 per year. Final salary determination is based on a formal pay-setting process that considers your professional education, length of practice, and specific clinical expertise.
Benefits
VA employees enjoy a robust total rewards package, including:
- Exceptional health insurance plans.
- Federal retirement options.
- Competitive leave and paid time off.
- Growth opportunities within a nationwide healthcare network.
Application Tips
- Use the Required Template: Ensure you use the specific Clinical Resume document linked in the announcement.
- Highlight Accomplishments: Use the "Major Duties" section to align your experience with the specific administrative and surgical requirements of the role.
- Stay Organized: Double-check all required documents, especially licensure and education transcripts, before submission.
If you are a surgical leader ready to influence the delivery of healthcare for our nation's Veterans, we invite you to apply. This role in Montgomery offers the professional fulfillment of high-stakes surgery combined with the stability of federal service. Apply today to begin your journey with the VA.
Why This Chief Of Surgery (Podiatrist) Job Matters
Lead surgical excellence for our nation's heroes in Montgomery, Alabama, where your clinical expertise meets impactful medical leadership.
Chief Of Surgery (Podiatrist) Job Overview
The Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System is seeking a distinguished Chief of Surgery (Podiatrist) to spearhead a comprehensive range of surgical services. You will oversee multidisciplinary teams across general surgery, urology, podiatry, orthopedics, ophthalmology, and anesthesia, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and operational efficiency. This role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of surgical delivery for those who have served, working within a facility dedicated to innovation, clinical excellence, and a supportive, collaborative environment.
Requirements for Chief Of Surgery (Podiatrist)
- Degree as a doctor of podiatric medicine from an accredited school approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
- Completion of an accredited residency program in podiatric medicine.
- Eligibility for or current board certification as required by local faculty status protocols.
- Possession of a full, unrestricted license to practice podiatry in any U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to obtain surgical privileges.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Chief Of Surgery (Podiatrist)
- Board certification by an American Specialty Board.
- Proven track record of administrative, leadership, or supervisory experience in a surgical setting.
- Post-graduate experience within the VA surgical service system.
- Significant contributions to research, including publications in professional journals.
- Current or past faculty appointments at an approved medical school.
- Experience managing clinical quality improvement and outcome measurement systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary range of $200,000 to $400,000.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance packages.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits and savings plans.
- ✓Paid time off and leave programs.
- ✓Supportive work-life balance initiatives.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and research participation.
💡 How to Apply Chief Of Surgery (Podiatrist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chief Of Surgery (Podiatrist) Job
- Prepare your resume and a formal CV detailing your clinical and administrative achievements.
- Download and complete the standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS profile.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire via the application link.
- Upload all supporting documents, including proof of licensure, education, and any veterans' preference documentation.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of 11:59 PM (ET) on September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA, as it is a mandatory document.
- Be highly detailed in your descriptions; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Clearly highlight your administrative and leadership roles, as these are critical for the Chief of Surgery position.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and current.
- Check your USAJOBS account dashboard frequently for status updates regarding your referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Chief of Surgery?
The incumbent manages the overall operation and supervision of surgical services, including general surgery, urology, podiatry, orthopedics, ophthalmology, and anesthesia, while ensuring quality care and administrative oversight.
Is relocation authorized for this position?
No, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an onsite position based in Montgomery, Alabama.*
What is the closing date for applications?
*A: The position is open until September 30, 2026.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System provides compassionate, high-quality care to over 49,000 Veterans across a 39-county area. As a vital component of the VA Southeast Network (VISN 7), our facilities in Montgomery and Tuskegee, along with our seven community-based outpatient clinics, represent the gold standard in Veteran-centered care. We are looking for leaders who are passionate about healthcare innovation and dedicated to the VA mission of honoring our nation's heroes.