A Career in Service: Become a VA Psychologist
Are you looking to take your clinical psychology career to a facility where your work directly impacts those who sacrificed for our country? The Bay Pines VA Healthcare System is currently recruiting for dedicated Psychologists to provide world-class mental health care to our Veterans. This is an opportunity to join a mission-driven organization that values clinical excellence, research, and holistic patient support.
Job Responsibilities
As a Psychologist within the VA, you will serve as a vital member of the Medical Staff. Key duties include:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Conducting psychodiagnostic assessments using current DSM standards.
- Treatment Planning: Developing and implementing individualized psychotherapy plans for group and individual sessions.
- Suicide Prevention: Implementing high-standard safety protocols and screening tools.
- Mentorship: Providing clinical supervision to students, interns, and post-doctoral residents.
- Quality Improvement: Utilizing data to improve clinical outcomes and program efficacy.
Position Comparison
| Level | Experience Required | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry Level | Developing clinical skills |
| GS-12 | 1 Year Experience | Independent practice with moderate supervision |
| GS-13 | 2+ Years Experience | Full performance, expert consultation |
Requirements
You must hold a doctoral degree from an accredited program and possess a current, unrestricted license to practice psychology. Candidates must be proficient in English and pass necessary background and physical screenings.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for this role is highly competitive, ranging from $144,298 to $187,590 annually. Beyond the salary, the VA offers:
- Debt Relief: Access to the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Retirement Security: Federal pension and 401(k) matching.
- Work-Life Balance: Up to 50 days of paid time off.
This position offers more than just a paycheck; it offers a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application and join the ranks of the dedicated professionals at the VA.
Why This Psychologist Job Matters
Join the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System as a Psychologist and make a lasting impact on the lives of those who have served our nation. We are offering competitive salaries, exceptional benefits, and significant student loan repayment opportunities through the EDRP.
Psychologist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated Psychologists to provide comprehensive mental health services at Bay Pines, Florida, and Cape Coral, Florida. This role offers the opportunity to practice in a collaborative medical environment, utilizing your expertise in psychodiagnostics, psychotherapy, and evidence-based assessments to support our Veteran population. Join a team committed to excellence, innovation, and whole-health care.
Requirements for Psychologist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA/PCSAS/CPA accredited program
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA/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 physical and background investigation
Preferred Qualifications for Psychologist
- Experience in psychodiagnostic assessment and evidence-based psychotherapy
- Proficiency in current DSM diagnostic standards
- Demonstrated ability to design and implement clinical treatment strategies
- Experience with clinical research and data-driven quality improvement
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal pension and 401K-style retirement plan with employer matching
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 50 days annually including holidays)
- ✓Paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidy eligibility
💡 How to Apply Psychologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychologist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume detailing relevant work experience (including grade levels and hours worked).
- Download and complete the mandatory Clinical Resume document from the VA Careers site.
- Gather your doctoral transcripts and state licensure documents.
- Submit your application and required documents through the USAJOBS portal by the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your experience.
- Include both paid and relevant volunteer experience to build your professional profile.
- Ensure all documentation is uploaded to the correct categories in the application portal.
- Apply early to be included in the first referral cut-off date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP. Interested candidates should review policy requirements and submit applications within four months of appointment.
What is the expected work schedule?
The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling the promise of caring for our Veterans and their families. At the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, our mission is to provide compassionate, whole-health care. We foster a culture of professional growth, interdisciplinary collaboration, and continuous improvement.