Advance Your Career: Psychiatrist Opportunities with the Department of Veterans Affairs
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively recruiting dedicated and talented Psychiatrists to join the South Central VA Health Care Network (VISN 16). If you are looking for a career that balances clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose, this is an exceptional opportunity. You will be providing high-quality, compassionate mental health care to the brave men and women who have served in the United States military.
Job Responsibilities
As a staff psychiatrist, you will serve as a vital member of a multidisciplinary healthcare team. Your daily tasks will include:
- Clinical Assessment: Conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations and physical examinations.
- Treatment Planning: Developing and implementing comprehensive, individualized treatment plans.
- Medication Management: Ordering labs and diagnostic tests, and prescribing appropriate psychiatric medications.
- Therapeutic Interventions: Leading group therapy and individual counseling sessions.
- Team Coordination: Working closely with nurses, social workers, and other physicians to ensure integrated care.
- Academic Mentorship: Instructing psychiatry residents and medical students.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must possess:
- U.S. Citizenship (or be eligible under specific VA hiring authorities).
- A valid and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. state or territory.
- Successful completion of an accredited medical school and residency program.
- Proficiency in English.
- Ability to pass a mandatory drug screening and physical examination.
Salary and Benefits Overview
Working for the VA offers a robust compensation package designed to support both your professional and personal life.
Comparison of Benefits
| Benefit Feature | VA Offerings |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $250,000 - $315,000 |
| Annual Leave | 26 Days |
| Sick Leave | 13 Days |
| Federal Holidays | 11 Days |
| Retirement | Pension + 401(k) Match |
| Loan Repayment | Up to $200,000 (EDRP) |
Application Tips
- Standardized Documentation: Always use the official VA Clinical Resume template found on their careers website.
- Clarity: Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your board-eligibility or certification status.
- Follow-Up: Monitor your USAJobs account regularly for status updates.
This role offers a unique combination of competitive compensation, substantial student loan support, and the rewarding experience of serving America's Veterans. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application to the South Central VA Health Care Network today.
Why This Physician - Psychiatrist Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on those who served our nation by joining the VA as a Physician-Psychiatrist, where your expertise in mental health directly enhances the lives of Veterans.
Physician - Psychiatrist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is seeking dedicated Psychiatrists to join the South Central VA Health Care Network (VISN 16). This role offers a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive mental health care in both inpatient and outpatient settings. You will be part of a multidisciplinary team committed to delivering state-of-the-art treatment for conditions including PTSD, substance abuse, and mood disorders, all while enjoying a stable federal benefits package and the support of a nationwide healthcare mission.
Requirements for Physician - Psychiatrist
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an approved institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. state or territory.
- Completion of an accredited residency training program in a core specialty.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation and drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Psychiatrist
- Board certification or Board eligibility in psychiatry.
- Experience in medication management and comprehensive treatment planning.
- Strong collaborative skills for multidisciplinary team environments.
- Experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric clinical settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary and annual performance bonuses.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓CME reimbursement opportunities.
- ✓No mandatory restrictive employment contracts.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Psychiatrist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Psychiatrist Job
- Create or log in to your account on the official federal hiring portal.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA career link.
- Upload the standardized resume into the two-page restricted field.
- Upload your full CV into the 'Other' document field.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to avoid processing delays.
- Be sure to account for all qualifying experience, including volunteer work and previous military service.
- Submit your application early, as the announcement may close once all vacancies are filled.
- Ensure all contact information is accurate to receive timely status notifications.
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 based on eligibility.
Can I work remotely?
No, this position is not offered as remote or telework. The incumbent must be physically located within 50 miles of the selected facility.
Is moonlighting allowed?
The VA does not impose significant restrictions on moonlighting, providing physicians with greater professional flexibility.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VA is a leader in mental health research, substance abuse treatment, and patient-centered care. Joining the VA means becoming part of an organization that honors President Lincoln’s promise to "care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families."