Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Physical Therapist with the VA

Are you a dedicated physical therapist looking to make a meaningful difference? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a passionate Physical Therapist to join the Fargo VA Health Care System, serving Veterans in the Fergus Falls, Minnesota area. This role offers the unique chance to provide high-quality care to those who have served our country while enjoying the stability and benefits of a federal career.

About the Fargo VA Health Care System

The Fargo VA Health Care System is a pillar of health for Veterans across North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. Accredited by the Joint Commission, our facility provides a vast array of services, from acute care and community living to outpatient specialty clinics. We pride ourselves on a "Whole Health" approach, empowering Veterans to take charge of their well-being in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a Physical Therapist in our outpatient clinic, you will function as an autonomous provider. Your daily duties will include:

Comprehensive Evaluations: Assessing patients with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and pulmonary conditions.
Treatment Planning: Designing and modifying individualized plans of care that adapt to the patient's ongoing progress.
Autonomous Decision-Making: Using advanced clinical reasoning to diagnose and establish intervention goals.
Collaboration: Working alongside the healthcare team and referring to other specialists as needed.
Documentation: Maintaining accurate clinical records of progress, evaluations, and discharge summaries.

Position Comparison

Feature	GS-11 (Entry)	GS-12 (Full Performance)
Scope of Practice	Direct patient care under general guidelines	Autonomous clinical decision-making
Supervision	Operates under standard supervision	Provides oversight to PTAs and students
Requirements	Basic Education & Licensure	Basic requirements + 1 year of equivalent experience

Requirements for Success

To qualify for this position, candidates must be U.S. citizens and hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice physical therapy. You must also have graduated from a CAPTE-accredited program. Because this role requires travel for community-based care, a valid driver's license and the ability to perform operator-level vehicle maintenance are essential.

Salary and Benefits

We offer a competitive annual salary ranging from $74,678 to $116,362. Beyond the paycheck, federal employment includes:

Generous annual and sick leave.
Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
Federal retirement planning through FERS.
Professional development opportunities within a world-class healthcare network.

How to Apply

Applying for a federal position can be streamlined by following these steps:

Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have your transcripts and a properly formatted clinical resume ready.
Use the VA Templates: Download the specific Clinical Resume template from the VA Careers website to ensure compliance.
Visit USAJOBS: Submit your complete application package, including all required certifications and veteran preference documents, before the deadline.

Are relocation incentives offered?

No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.

Joining the Fargo VA Health Care System as a Physical Therapist is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and a way to honor our Veterans. If you possess the clinical expertise and the heart to serve, we encourage you to submit your application today. Help us continue to provide exceptional care for those who have sacrificed so much for our nation.

Why This Physical Therapist Job Matters

Advance your physical therapy career by providing compassionate, life-changing care to our nation's Veterans in Fergus Falls, Minnesota.

Physical Therapist Job Overview

The Fargo VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapist to join the Rehab and Extended Care Service Line. In this role, you will provide essential rehabilitation services to Veterans within an outpatient setting at the Fergus Falls VA Clinic. As an independent provider, you will play a critical role in developing personalized treatment plans, conducting evaluations, and fostering recovery for those who have served our country. This position offers the opportunity to work autonomously while contributing to a mission-driven organization focused on holistic patient wellness.

Requirements for Physical Therapist

U.S. Citizenship.
A degree in Physical Therapy from a CAPTE-accredited institution.
Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice physical therapy in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
Must possess a valid driver's license for clinic-related travel.
Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Ability to complete a successful background and security investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapist

Two years of specialized work experience in an outpatient clinical setting.
Demonstrated ability to function autonomously in a Direct Access environment.
Experience in providing clinical oversight for Physical Therapy Assistants and students.
Strong diagnostic skills regarding musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular systems.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and annual leave accrual.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical training.
✓Contribution to a mission-focused, interdisciplinary healthcare team.
✓Potential service credit for leave accrual based on prior experience.

💡 How to Apply Physical Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Therapist Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Template.
Prepare your comprehensive CV and transcripts.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload all necessary documents, including licensure and veterans' preference paperwork (if applicable).
Submit your full application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Use the provided Clinical Resume Template specifically to ensure your application meets formatting expectations.
Detail your clinical experience clearly, as selectors cannot make assumptions about your previous duties.
If you are a veteran, ensure all supporting documentation like the DD-214 is uploaded to receive preference credit.
Double-check that your license information is current and active in your documentation.
Address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) mentioned in the announcement within your application materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?

Non-licensed PTs may be eligible for a temporary appointment as a graduate PT at the GS-11 level for a period not exceeding two years, provided they satisfy all other education and program requirements.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes, you must hold a valid driver's license and be able to operate a vehicle to provide care in the community, potentially in various weather and traffic conditions.

What is the work schedule for this role?

The position follows a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an on-site, patient-facing role within the Fergus Falls VA Clinic.