Become a Chief of Surgery with the VA Central California Health Care System
Are you a visionary surgical leader looking to make a meaningful difference? The VA Central California Health Care System (VACCHCS) is currently seeking a highly skilled physician to serve as the Chief of Surgery. This position offers the rare opportunity to balance high-level administrative leadership with hands-on surgical patient care, all while supporting our nation’s Veterans in the heart of Fresno, California.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief of Surgery, you will report directly to the Chief of Staff. Your primary goal is to ensure that surgical services are delivered efficiently, safely, and in alignment with VHA national objectives. Key duties include:
- Administrative Oversight: Managing the daily operations, compliance, and fiscal health of the surgical department.
- Clinical Excellence: Maintaining an active surgical practice and participating in on-call coverage.
- Leadership and Mentorship: Fostering the professional development of surgical staff and residents.
- Strategic Collaboration: Working with other Service Chiefs to integrate care across the facility.
Requirements
To be eligible for this high-level role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A degree from an accredited school of allopathic or osteopathic medicine.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted medical license.
- Training: Completion of an accredited surgical residency.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a federal background check and drug testing.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $350,000 – $400,000 per year |
| Incentives | Recruitment bonus & EDRP (up to $200k) |
| Time Off | 50-55 days total (Leave + Holidays + CME) |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401K with 5% match |
Why Choose the VA?
Working for the VA is not just a job; it is a commitment to service. Beyond the competitive salary and loan repayment opportunities, the VA offers unparalleled job security, malpractice protection, and the ability to work in an environment where patient health takes precedence over profit margins.
Application Tips
- Use the Standard Format: Ensure you use the provided Clinical Resume Document template.
- Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your experience in hospital administration, policy implementation, and team management.
- Stay Current: Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal, as referrals occur in bi-weekly cycles.
This position is ideal for an experienced surgeon ready to transition into a leadership role where they can influence systemic change. If you have the expertise and the heart to serve, we invite you to apply and join our team in Fresno.
Why This Physician - Chief Of Surgery Job Matters
Lead the future of surgical excellence at the VA Central California Health Care System, where your expertise directly transforms the lives of our nation's heroes.
Physician - Chief Of Surgery Job Overview
The VA Central California Health Care System is seeking a distinguished Chief of Surgery to provide clinical and administrative leadership. This role is pivotal in driving our mission to deliver comprehensive, high-quality, and compassionate healthcare to Veterans. Based in Fresno, California, you will oversee surgical services within a facility that offers a blend of primary, secondary, and tertiary care. This is a unique opportunity to shape surgical standards, mentor medical professionals, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in an environment that honors service and promotes clinical innovation.
Requirements for Physician - Chief Of Surgery
- U.S. Citizenship (unless recruitment of a citizen is not possible).
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA-approved residency in Surgery.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and background security investigation.
- Successful completion of drug testing, as this is a testing-designated position.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Chief Of Surgery
- Board Certification in Surgery.
- Extensive experience in administrative medicine, including knowledge of Executive Orders and VHA regulations.
- Proven track record in clinical leadership and oversight of surgical specialty programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive base salary with annual performance bonuses.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
- ✓Recruitment incentive (sign-on bonus) available.
- ✓Relocation assistance for qualifying candidates.
- ✓Federal pension and 401K retirement plans with matching contributions.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 federal holidays.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance coverage.
- ✓Free malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Chief Of Surgery Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Chief Of Surgery Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA careers link.
- Upload the Clinical Resume Document into the 'Resume' section.
- Upload your full CV/Resume into the 'Other' section for comprehensive review.
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly illustrates how your experience aligns with both clinical and administrative duties.
- Veterans should claim preference by submitting a DD214 and any required SF-15 documentation.
- Apply early; the vacancy has rolling cut-off dates every two weeks starting in January 2026.
- Double-check that your license information is accurate and unrestricted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to international medical graduates?
Yes, provided the degree is from an approved school or you possess ECFMG eligibility, and you meet all licensure requirements to practice medicine in the U.S.
Does this role require administrative duties?
Yes. The Chief of Surgery role is a leadership position that requires overseeing staff, ensuring policy compliance, and managing clinical resources in addition to maintaining surgical practice.
What is the benefit of the Education Debt Reduction Program?
The EDRP provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualifying medical professionals, significantly helping to manage educational debt.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Central California Health Care System is a vital part of the VA Sierra Pacific Network (VISN 21). Our facility provides state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical treatment services to Veterans across California, Nevada, and Hawaii. With a 57-bed acute care center and a 54-bed Community Living Center, we are dedicated to providing "Whole Health" care that honors the sacrifices of those who served our country.