Pursuing a Career as a Physical Therapist with the Veterans Health Administration

Becoming a Physical Therapist within the Department of Veterans Affairs is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have served our country. The Fargo VA Health Care System is currently looking for a skilled, autonomous clinician to join their team in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. This role offers a unique opportunity to blend clinical expertise with a deep sense of purpose.

Job Responsibilities

As a Physical Therapist in the Fergus Falls VA Clinic, you will serve as an independent care provider. Key duties include:

Performing thorough examinations and evaluations to diagnose musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.
Developing and modifying individualized treatment plans.
Collaborating with a multidisciplinary healthcare team to optimize outcomes.
Providing clinical oversight for Physical Therapy Assistants and students.
Documenting all patient encounters and goal progress in the electronic medical record.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several rigorous standards:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Education: Completion of an accredited Physical Therapy program (CAPTE).
Licensure: A current, unrestricted license to practice physical therapy.
Physical Fitness: Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination.

Salary and Grade Overview

Candidates may be selected at the GS-11 or GS-12 level based on experience and qualification standards.

Level	Role Type	Salary Range
GS-11	Entry / Full Performance	$74,678 - $116,362
GS-12	Full Performance	$74,678 - $116,362

Benefits

Employees of the Veterans Health Administration enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Robust federal health insurance plans.
Generous retirement savings options (TSP).
Ample paid leave, including sick and vacation time.
Stability in a career that directly supports the public interest.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your outpatient experience clearly.
Don't Forget Documentation: Include your license, transcripts, and any required SF-50 forms.
KSA Attention: If you choose to provide a separate KSA document, ensure it maps directly to the functional statements.

If you are a licensed physical therapist seeking a role that offers both clinical autonomy and the chance to give back to our Veteran population, the Fargo VA Health Care System is waiting for you. Apply today to start your journey.

Why This Physical Therapist Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Fargo VA Health Care System and provide essential rehabilitation care as a Physical Therapist in our Fergus Falls clinic.

Physical Therapist Job Overview

The Fargo VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated and autonomous Physical Therapist to join our team in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. As a primary care provider within the Rehab and Extended Care Service Line, you will deliver comprehensive, whole-health rehabilitation services to our nation's Veterans. This role offers the unique opportunity to practice in a collaborative outpatient setting, focusing on enhancing functional independence and improving the quality of life for those who have sacrificed so much for our country.

Requirements for Physical Therapist

U.S. Citizenship
Valid, full, current, and unrestricted license to practice physical therapy
Graduate of a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license for community-based travel
Subject to background and security investigation
Must be able to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccinations or provide approved documentation for exemption

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapist

Two years of specialized work experience in an outpatient clinical setting
Demonstrated ability to perform autonomous clinical decision-making in a direct-access environment
Experience overseeing Physical Therapy Assistants and students
Strong interpersonal skills for working within a multidisciplinary team

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and pay scale
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Federal retirement benefits
✓Paid time off, including sick leave and federal holidays
✓Opportunities for professional growth and student training affiliations
✓Supportive work environment within a Joint Commission accredited system

💡 How to Apply Physical Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Therapist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account profile
Prepare your resume, ensuring it meets all federal application guidelines
Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document
Submit your application package, including transcripts and license documentation, via the online portal before the deadline
Complete the required occupational questionnaire

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your clinical experience.
Ensure your responses to the online questionnaire align clearly with the evidence provided in your resume.
Proofread your application documents for accuracy before submission.
Monitor your email regularly for status updates from the VA hiring team.
Consider providing a separate document addressing the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) requested in the announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical work schedule for this position?

This position operates on a standard schedule, typically Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this is an on-site, in-person clinical position that requires direct interaction with patients in a clinic setting.

Does the position require travel?

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

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Fargo VA Health Care System is a pillar of excellence in patient care, serving over 36,000 Veterans across North Dakota and Minnesota. As a Joint Commission-accredited facility, the VA prioritizes a 'Whole Health' approach, ensuring that every Veteran receives personalized care that considers their specific goals, psychosocial factors, and environmental needs. Working here means joining a team dedicated to innovation, education, and compassionate healing.