Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychiatrist with the VA in Tuscaloosa
Are you a dedicated psychiatrist looking for a career that offers both professional growth and the chance to give back to those who have served? The Tuscaloosa VA Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Staff Psychiatrist to join our mission-driven team. This is a unique opportunity to provide high-quality, comprehensive mental health care in a stable and supportive environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychiatrist, your primary mission is to provide psychiatric care to enrolled Veterans. Your daily duties will include:
- Diagnosing and treating psychiatric and behavioral health conditions.
- Managing antipsychotic medications and patient care plans.
- Providing psychiatric consultations for other clinical disciplines.
- Collaborating with medical providers, psychologists, and clinical pharmacists.
- Responding to psychiatric emergencies.
- Utilizing telehealth technology to reach Veterans both on-station and remotely.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A degree of Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine from an accredited school.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to practice in any U.S. state or territory.
- Training: Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required (exceptions only per policy).
- Professionalism: You must be proficient in both written and spoken English.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $124,308 - $315,000 |
| Student Loan Repayment | EDRP up to $200,000 |
| Paid Time Off | 50-55 days per year |
| Malpractice Coverage | Free with tail coverage |
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires attention to detail. Ensure that you have downloaded the standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA careers website and uploaded it exactly as instructed. Since this is an open continuous announcement, referral cut-offs occur weekly; applying early increases your visibility to hiring managers.
Becoming a Staff Psychiatrist at the Tuscaloosa VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the wellbeing of our nation's heroes. With a competitive salary, industry-leading benefits, and the ability to reduce your student debt, this role offers an ideal balance for your professional and personal life. Apply today to start your journey with the VA.
Why This Physician - Staff Psychiatrist Job Matters
Advance your psychiatric career in Alabama while providing world-class care to those who have served our nation. Join the Tuscaloosa VA Health Care System and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our Veterans.
Physician - Staff Psychiatrist Job Overview
The Tuscaloosa VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychiatrist to join our Mental Health Service Line. This role focuses on delivering comprehensive psychiatric care, from diagnosis to treatment management, within both inpatient and outpatient settings. This position offers a competitive salary, exceptional benefits, and the opportunity to utilize the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Requirements for Physician - Staff Psychiatrist
- U.S. Citizenship (unless recruitment of citizens is not possible).
- Degree of Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine or surgery in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Completion of an accredited residency training program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation and pre-employment physical.
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Staff Psychiatrist
- Board Certification in Psychiatry.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Traditional federal pension and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Generous PTO including 26 days annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 federal holidays.
- ✓Possible 5-day paid absence for Continuing Medical Education (CME).
- ✓Up to $1,000 annual CME reimbursement.
- ✓Free malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Staff Psychiatrist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Staff Psychiatrist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume/CV and the required Clinical Resume document.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package online before the cut-off date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your CV clearly highlights board certification status.
- Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to avoid processing delays.
- Submit your application early; the announcement has weekly referral cut-offs.
- Double-check that all licensure information is current and accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000.
Can I work remotely?
While the role is based in Tuscaloosa, some psychiatric care may be delivered via telehealth.
Is a contract required?
No, there is no physician employment contract, and there are no significant restrictions on moonlighting.
What is the EDRP program?
The Education Debt Reduction Program provides student loan payment reimbursement for qualifying health care roles up to a total of $200,000.
Is there an employment contract?
No, VA physicians do not sign employment contracts and are generally permitted to moonlight outside of their VA responsibilities.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. As part of the VA Southeast Network (VISN 07), the Tuscaloosa VA Health Care System prides itself on providing compassionate, whole-health care to our Veteran community. We foster an environment of collaboration, respect, and innovation.