Lead Diagnostic Excellence: Podiatrist Nuclear Medicine Section Chief Opportunity
Are you a visionary medical leader looking to make a profound impact on the health of our nation's Veterans? The South Texas VA Health Care System (STVHCS) is currently hiring for a Podiatrist Nuclear Medicine Section Chief. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to merge specialized clinical expertise with administrative leadership in a world-class healthcare environment.
About the South Texas VA Health Care System
The STVHCS is a massive network serving 35 counties, encompassing the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital and the Kerrville VA Hospital. As part of VISN 17, we provide primary, secondary, and tertiary care to over 114,000 Veterans. Our facilities are hubs of innovation, featuring specialized centers for spinal cord injury, bone marrow transplantation, and geriatric research. Partnering with UT Health San Antonio, we pride ourselves on delivering whole-health care that honors those who have served.
Job Responsibilities
As the Section Chief for Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT, you will act as both a clinician and an administrator. Your primary duties include:
- Administrative Oversight: Managing personnel, equipment procurement, and budget planning for the Nuclear Medicine section.
- Clinical Leadership: Providing interpretive and patient care services while supervising technologists and other physicians.
- Compliance: Ensuring absolute adherence to NRC, FDA, OSHA, and Joint Commission standards regarding radiation safety and patient confidentiality.
- Quality Improvement: Developing and monitoring performance metrics to enhance patient safety and reduce wait times.
- Education: Mentoring medical students, residents, and technologist trainees.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree from an accredited institution.
- Training: Completed residency in an approved program leading to board eligibility.
- Licensing: Possession of a full, unrestricted license to practice Podiatry in any US State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Experience: Demonstrated ability to lead and develop clinical programs.
Comparison Table: Why Choose the VA?
| Benefit Feature | Federal VA Employment | Private Sector Average |
|---|---|---|
| Malpractice | Covered (Full Protection) | Often Out-of-Pocket |
| Paid Time Off | ~55 Days Per Year | Varies (Usually Less) |
| Pension | Traditional Federal Pension | Rare/401k Only |
| Flexibility | No Employment Contract | Rigid Contracts |
Salary and Benefits
We offer a highly competitive compensation package. The salary range for this position is $390,000 to $400,000 per year. Beyond the base pay, employees receive extensive federal benefits, including:
- Generous Leave: 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Insurance: Access to top-tier health, dental, vision, and long-term care plans.
- Retirement: A stable pension plan plus a 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching.
- CME: Annual reimbursement for continuing medical education.
Application Tips
- Use the Right Resume: You must use the designated VA clinical resume template. Uploading a standard corporate resume may result in a non-compliant application.
- Highlight Leadership: Use your application narrative to describe how you have handled conflicts, managed budgets, or led teams through accreditation surveys.
- Proofread: Ensure all licensure numbers and board certification details are accurate and current.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a security clearance required? A: Yes, this position requires a background and security investigation, including fitness/suitability screening.
Q: Is this a remote position? A: No, this role is onsite at the South Texas VA Health Care System facilities.
Q: What is the deadline to apply? A: The announcement remains open until September 5, 2026, or until the position is filled.
Joining the Department of Veterans Affairs is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have sacrificed for our country. As a Section Chief, you will define the standard of diagnostic care for thousands of Veterans. We invite you to bring your leadership, your clinical precision, and your compassion to the South Texas VA Health Care System today.
Why This Podiatrist Nuclear Medicine Section Chief Job Matters
Lead the future of diagnostic imaging at the South Texas VA Health Care System and provide world-class care to our nation's heroes.
Podiatrist Nuclear Medicine Section Chief Job Overview
The South Texas VA Health Care System is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Podiatrist to serve as the Section Chief for Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT. In this critical leadership role, you will manage administrative operations, clinical workflows, and diagnostic services while ensuring the highest standards of radiation safety and patient care. This is a unique opportunity to integrate podiatric expertise with nuclear medicine, influencing quality improvement and educational training programs in one of the VA's largest healthcare networks.
Requirements for Podiatrist Nuclear Medicine Section Chief
- Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from an accredited school of podiatric medicine.
- Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice Podiatry in a US State, Territory, or DC.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Commitment to the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Podiatrist Nuclear Medicine Section Chief
- Board Certification in Nuclear Medicine.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience as a staff radiologist or higher.
- Demonstrated proficiency in multi-modality and multi-organ system radiology.
- Proven track record in administrative leadership, specifically supervising technologists and physicians.
- Extensive experience with accreditation and inspection surveys (e.g., Joint Commission, NRC).
- Ability to manage complex budgets, supply acquisitions, and clinical quality improvement initiatives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary and annual performance bonuses.
- ✓Generous Paid Time Off: Up to 55 days annually (inclusive of leave, sick time, and federal holidays).
- ✓Comprehensive insurance: Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Robust retirement plans: Federal pension and 401(k) matching up to 5%.
- ✓Free malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓Annual Continuing Medical Education (CME) support.
- ✓Flexible work-life balance in a stable clinical environment.
💡 How to Apply Podiatrist Nuclear Medicine Section Chief Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Podiatrist Nuclear Medicine Section Chief Job
- Log in or create an account at USAJOBS.
- Review the full job announcement details and qualification standards.
- Download the standard VA Clinical Resume template provided on the VA Careers website.
- Prepare your documentation, including license, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference papers (DD-214/SF-15).
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal, including both the template and your detailed CV.
- Monitor your email for status updates or requests for interviews.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is tailored to reflect the specific leadership duties listed in the job description.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your previous responsibilities; be specific about your supervisory and clinical achievements.
- Use the exact provided Clinical Resume template to avoid technical disqualification.
- Double-check that all state licenses are current and valid.
- Complete the online questionnaire thoroughly before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for relocation assistance?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
What is the work schedule for this role?
This is a standard full-time position with a schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Can I hold a job outside of the VA while working here?
The VA allows for moonlighting with minimal restrictions, provided it does not conflict with your primary responsibilities.