Advance Your Psychiatric Career with the VA in Buffalo
The Western New York Healthcare System is currently seeking a passionate and skilled Psychiatrist to serve our nation's Veterans. If you are looking for a career that balances high-quality patient care with professional development and stability, this is the opportunity for you. Serving those who have served us is a profound calling, and the VA offers a unique environment where clinical excellence meets compassionate support.
Job Responsibilities
As a Psychiatrist, you will be on the front lines of mental health care, performing evaluations and providing therapeutic interventions for diverse populations, including geriatric and post-deployment combat Veterans. Your key responsibilities include:
- Performing diagnostic assessments and medication management.
- Conducting suicide risk screenings and crisis interventions.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate comprehensive treatment plans.
- Potentially supervising psychiatric residents and participating in clinical teaching.
Comparison: Private Practice vs. VA Psychiatry
| Feature | Private Practice | VA Psychiatry |
|---|---|---|
| Malpractice Coverage | Often Paid by Provider | Fully Provided by VA |
| Patient Population | Varies | Veterans (Diverse/Specialized) |
| Loan Repayment | Rare | EDRP Available |
| Stability | Market Dependent | Federal Career Security |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must hold a degree of Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine from an accredited institution and possess a full, unrestricted medical license. Board certification or eligibility in Psychiatry is strongly preferred. Proficiency in English and completion of an accredited residency are mandatory.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $230,000 to $300,000 per year. Beyond the base pay, the VA provides an unparalleled benefits package including federal retirement plans, health insurance, and 50-55 days of total leave per year. You may also qualify for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Application Tips
Ensure your application is complete by using the specific clinical resume document provided by the VA website. Highlight your experience in mental health settings and clearly denote any board certifications.
Join a team that values your expertise and supports your professional growth. Apply for the Psychiatrist position at the Western New York Healthcare System today.
Why This Psychiatrist Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on those who served our nation while advancing your clinical career in a supportive, mission-driven environment in Buffalo, New York.
Psychiatrist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated Psychiatrist to join the Western New York Healthcare System. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive mental health care to a diverse population of Veterans. This position offers a competitive compensation package, excellent work-life balance, and the opportunity to participate in academic training programs, all while contributing to a healthcare team committed to excellence.
Requirements for Psychiatrist
- United States Citizenship (exceptions apply under specific VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any US State, Territory, or Commonwealth.
- Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security/suitability clearances.
Preferred Qualifications for Psychiatrist
- Board Certified or Board Eligible in Psychiatry.
- Clinical experience working with PTSD and complex mental health conditions.
- Experience in geriatric psychiatry or working with post-deployment combat veterans.
- Academic interest in supervising and teaching psychiatric residents.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with performance bonuses.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Comprehensive federal insurance including health, vision, dental, and life.
- ✓Robust retirement package including federal pension and 401(k) with matching.
- ✓Generous PTO (up to 55 days including holidays and sick leave).
- ✓Free malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓CME reimbursement opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Psychiatrist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychiatrist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your CV/resume and specific VA clinical documents.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online portal.
- Upload required documents, ensuring the clinical resume document is placed in the restricted upload field.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the provided VA-specific clinical resume template to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
- Clearly outline your experience with Veterans or mental health specialty care in your resume.
- Ensure all professional certifications and board eligibility statuses are clearly indicated.
- Double-check your eligibility for the EDRP program if you carry student loan debt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program eligibility and review.
What is the expected work schedule?
This is a part-time position with standard hours Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with compressed schedule options available.
Does the VA provide malpractice coverage?
Yes, physicians at the VA are provided with free liability protection, including tail coverage.
Can I moonlight while working for the VA?
*A: Yes, the VA imposes no significant restrictions on moonlighting activities.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care to America's Veterans, focusing on a whole-health approach that addresses the physical and mental well-being of our patients.