Rewarding Careers: Orthotist/Prosthetist at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Are you a certified Orthotist or Prosthetist looking for a role that combines clinical excellence with deep personal satisfaction? The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas, is currently hiring motivated professionals to provide high-level care to our nation's Veterans. This is an open continuous announcement, allowing dedicated practitioners to join a mission-driven team dedicated to enhancing the lives of those who served.
Job Responsibilities
As an Orthotist/Prosthetist, your daily work will be varied and impactful. You will:
- Conduct clinical examinations, including gait analysis and muscle testing.
- Collaborate with physicians, therapists, and psychologists to create comprehensive treatment plans.
- Perform measurements, casting, and scanning to design custom devices.
- Fabricate orthoses and prostheses using state-of-the-art materials.
- Counsel Veterans on device use, maintenance, and follow-up care.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet rigorous standards, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A Bachelor’s degree in Orthotics/Prosthetics from a CAAHEP-accredited program.
- Active Board Certification from the ABC or BOC.
- Proficiency in English and ability to pass a background check.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position is graded on the federal General Schedule (GS) scale. Your starting pay will be determined by your clinical experience and current level of expertise.
| Grade Level | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-05 | Entry level, meets basic requirements |
| GS-07 | One year equivalent experience |
| GS-09 | Graduate education or 1 year of specialized experience |
| GS-11 | Advanced experience in complex clinical settings |
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and life insurance.
- Retirement plans (TSP).
- Paid annual leave and federal holidays.
- Opportunities for professional growth in a, top-tier medical facility.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the provided VA resume document to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
- Be Specific: Do not assume the hiring manager knows your expertise. Detail every technical skill clearly.
- Stay Organized: Track your application status directly through the federal careers website.
If you are ready to make a difference in the lives of Veterans, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the opportunity to practice your craft at the highest level in a supportive, mission-focused environment.
Why This Orthotist/Prosthetist Job Matters
Empower Veterans through innovation and care as an Orthotist/Prosthetist with the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center.
Orthotist/Prosthetist Job Overview
The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston is seeking compassionate and skilled Orthotists/Prosthetists to join our Rehabilitation and Extended Care team. This role is pivotal in helping Veterans regain mobility, comfort, and independence through the design, fabrication, and fitting of custom orthotic and prosthetic devices. You will work in a dynamic clinical environment, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality, life-changing care to those who have served our nation.
Requirements for Orthotist/Prosthetist
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
- Bachelor's degree or higher in orthotics and prosthetics from a CAAHEP accredited program (or relevant post-graduate certificate).
- Current Board Certification by the American Board for Certification (ABC) or the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Valid driver's license and ability to operate a Government vehicle.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and background investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Orthotist/Prosthetist
- Dual certification in both Orthotics and Prosthetics.
- Advanced experience in clinical patient analysis and complex device fabrication.
- Demonstrated ability to function as an integral member of a specialized clinical treatment team.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and advancement potential up to GS-11.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance packages.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Ongoing professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- ✓Access to a supportive, multidisciplinary clinical team environment.
💡 How to Apply Orthotist/Prosthetist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Orthotist/Prosthetist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the official federal careers portal.
- Create or update your profile on the federal job site.
- Download the required Clinical Resume Template provided by the VA.
- Prepare your documentation, including board certifications, transcripts, and relevant SF-50 forms.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire accurately to demonstrate your KSAs.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Use your resume to detail your paid and volunteer clinical experience, including start/end dates and hours per week.
- Use the template: Failure to use the specified VA clinical resume document may affect your application status.
- Quantify your results: Highlight complex cases you have handled or innovative techniques you have used in your clinical practice.
- Check your status: Monitor your application progress through your applicant dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Orthotist/Prosthetist at the VA?
You are responsible for evaluating patients, formulating treatment plans, and designing or fabricating custom devices to improve the mobility, health, and comfort of Veterans.
Is this position open to non-federal employees?
Yes, this announcement is open to various hiring paths including competitive and internal candidates; ensure you select the appropriate application link based on your status.
What is the salary potential for this position?
The position ranges from GS-05 to GS-11, with a broad pay scale from $46,979 to $111,966 based on qualifications and experience.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the gold standard for Veteran care. The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center serves over 151,000 Veterans in Southeast Texas. Working here means more than just a job; it means being part of an organization that honors President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have borne the battle. Houston offers a vibrant, cosmopolitan environment, making it an excellent city to live and grow your career.