Lead Mental Health Excellence: Psychiatry Section Chief Opportunities at the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of American healthcare, and the Mental Health Service Line is at the heart of that mission. We are looking for an experienced Psychiatrist to join our leadership team as a Section Chief. This is more than a job; it is a dedicated commitment to serving those who have protected our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Psychiatry Section Chief, your impact is multifaceted. You will:
- Provide administrative and clinical oversight for outpatient and inpatient mental health units.
- Supervise psychiatric staff and advanced clinical providers.
- Participate in on-call rotations for emergency psychiatric interventions.
- Facilitate medical center clinical committees.
- Collaborate with academic partners to mentor residents, medical students, and interns.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level role, candidates must possess:
- A valid, unrestricted medical license.
- Successful completion of an accredited residency program.
- Board certification in Psychiatry.
- Strong communication and leadership capabilities.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $260,000 - $335,000 |
| Grade Level | GS-15 equivalent |
| Location | Charlotte & Salisbury, NC |
| Schedule | M-F, 8:00am - 4:30pm |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary, regularly adjusted for performance and cost-of-living standards. With a range reaching $335,000, it reflects the high level of responsibility inherent in the Section Chief role.
Benefits
The VA provides a comprehensive rewards package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial security. Beyond base salary, clinicians enjoy extensive paid time off, federal retirement planning, and free liability coverage.
Application Tips
Submit a comprehensive C.V. and use the required Clinical Resume template. Be precise in your descriptions of previous clinical and leadership experience, as hiring managers rely on your documentation to evaluate your fit.
Serving as a Psychiatry Section Chief at the VA offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape mental health care for Veterans while enjoying a rewarding, secure career in North Carolina. Apply today to lead with purpose.
Why This Physician (Psychiatry Section Chief) Job Matters
Step into a vital leadership role at the Department of Veterans Affairs, where your psychiatric expertise directly improves the lives of those who served our nation.
Physician (Psychiatry Section Chief) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Physician to serve as a Psychiatry Section Chief. This leadership role involves overseeing clinical and administrative operations within the Mental Health Service Line in Charlotte and Salisbury, North Carolina. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, provide high-quality patient care, and participate in academic training programs, ensuring that Veterans receive exemplary, evidence-based mental health support.
Requirements for Physician (Psychiatry Section Chief)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply only under specific VA policy)
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C.
- Completed residency training in an accredited core specialty program
- Board Certification by the American Board of Medical Specialties or American Osteopathic Association
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Psychiatry Section Chief)
- Experience in psychiatric leadership or administrative oversight
- Background in teaching medical students, residents, or other health professionals
- Strong communication and collaborative skills for multidisciplinary team environments
- Demonstrated history of quality improvement in clinical settings
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Competitive base salary with annual performance bonuses
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Federal retirement pension and 401k-style thrift savings plan
- ✓50-55 days of combined annual leave, sick leave, and paid holidays
- ✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage
- ✓Continuing Medical Education (CME) reimbursement opportunities
💡 How to Apply Physician (Psychiatry Section Chief) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician (Psychiatry Section Chief) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Upload your resume, C.V., and all required supporting documentation to the application portal.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of August 28, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your experience and reflects all stated requirements.
- Utilize the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to avoid processing delays.
- Be proactive in submitting your EDRP application if seeking student loan assistance.
- Clearly label your supporting documents to ensure they are easily identified during the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP)?
The EDRP is a student loan reimbursement program for qualified VA health professionals. It provides up to $200,000 in loan assistance based on eligibility requirements determined after you are appointed.
Is board certification required for this position?
Yes, board certification by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) is a required qualification for this role.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: Relocation expenses are not offered for this specific vacancy. Please review the announcement carefully for updates.*
Can I moonlight?
*A: Yes, there are no significant restrictions on moonlighting, provided it does not conflict with your duties.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides holistic, patient-centered care to Veterans. Our core values, "I CARE" (Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, Excellence), guide every interaction. By joining us, you become a valued leader in a healthcare system that prioritizes evidence-based practices and professional growth.