Advance Your Medical Career: Staff Physician (Psychiatrist) at the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class, comprehensive healthcare to those who have defended our country. We are currently seeking a board-eligible or board-certified Psychiatrist to join our team in Chesapeake, Virginia. This is a unique opportunity to serve veterans while enjoying the stability and benefits of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Physician (Psychiatrist), you will manage a wide spectrum of psychiatric conditions including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Your time will be split between direct patient care (85%) and clinical leadership/teaching responsibilities (15%).
Core Duties
- Conduct diagnostic assessments and personalized treatment plans.
- Medication management and psychotherapy.
- Crisis intervention and suicide risk assessment.
- Mentoring psychiatry residents and medical trainees.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams for holistic care.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- A valid, unrestricted medical license in any U.S. state.
- Completion of an accredited medical school and residency program.
- Ability to pass a federal background check and drug test.
- Dedication to the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Comparison: Public vs. VA Medical Career
| Feature | Private Practice | VA Physician |
|---|---|---|
| Salary | Variable | $265,000 - $315,000 |
| Benefits | Varies | Full Federal Benefits |
| Malpractice | Expensive | Fully Covered |
| Debt Relief | Rarely Provided | Up to $200,000 (EDRP) |
| Patient Focus | Billing-Centric | Care-Centric |
Salary and Benefits
The VA offers a highly competitive salary range of $265,000 to $315,000. Beyond the paycheck, our "Total Rewards" package includes a federal pension, 401(k) matching, and up to 55 days of paid time off per year. Furthermore, our Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) can help eliminate student loan burdens while you grow your career.
Application Tips
- Use the Standard Format: Ensure you use the specific VA clinical resume template provided in the link below.
- Clearance: Be prepared for a background investigation.
- Stay Proactive: This is a continuous opening; applying early ensures your application is reviewed in the initial June referral cycle.
Serving the veteran population as a Psychiatrist is one of the most rewarding career moves a medical professional can make. With exceptional pay, robust benefits, and the chance to shape the next generation of doctors, this role in Chesapeake, VA, is a premier opportunity. Apply today to start your journey.
Why This Staff Physician (Psychiatrist) Job Matters
Advance your psychiatric career by providing transformative mental health care to those who have served our nation.
Staff Physician (Psychiatrist) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Staff Physician (Psychiatrist) to join the Veterans Health Administration in Chesapeake, Virginia. This role focuses on delivering high-quality, comprehensive mental health services to a diverse veteran population. You will play a vital role in an integrated care team, conducting assessments, managing complex psychiatric disorders, and contributing to the education of future medical professionals.
Requirements for Staff Physician (Psychiatrist)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens under specific policies).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical or surgical license in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA accredited residency training program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Physician (Psychiatrist)
- Board Certification in Psychiatry.
- Experience in outpatient psychiatric settings.
- Background in supervising medical residents and trainees.
- Demonstrated expertise in treating combat-related PTSD and substance abuse.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
- ✓Federal pension plan plus 401(k) with 5% matching.
- ✓Generous PTO: 50-55 days total per year (vacation, sick, and holidays).
- ✓Recruitment incentive for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓$1,000 annual CME reimbursement.
- ✓Free medical malpractice liability coverage.
💡 How to Apply Staff Physician (Psychiatrist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Physician (Psychiatrist) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Download and upload the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA career site link.
- Submit your full CV or resume along with any required supporting documentation.
- Ensure all materials are submitted before the 09/30/2026 deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your CV highlights experience with veteran populations.
- Submit your application early to be included in the first round of referrals on June 2nd, 2026.
- Double-check your eligibility for the EDRP and reach out to the coordinator with specific questions.
- Verify your references are prepared to speak to your clinical expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located at a community-based clinic in Chesapeake, Virginia, and requires on-site clinical presence.
What is the EDRP program?
The Education Debt Reduction Program is a generous student loan repayment initiative for VA employees, offering up to $200,000 in assistance.
Is board certification required?
While board certification is preferred, the base requirement is the completion of an approved residency program leading to board eligibility.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) operates the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Working at the VA means more than just a job; it means joining a mission-driven organization that values compassion, integrity, and clinical excellence. Our clinics offer a supportive environment where psychiatrists have the resources to focus on patient outcomes rather than private-practice billing pressures.