Advance Your Career as a Physician Assistant in Surgery with the VA

Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to combine your clinical expertise with a deep sense of purpose? The Central Alabama Veterans Health Care Administration is currently seeking a highly motivated Physician Assistant (Surgery) to join our Orthopedic team at the Robert S. Poydasheff VA Clinic in Columbus, Georgia. This position offers the rare opportunity to serve those who have bravely served our nation while working in a state-of-the-art facility.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will play a vital part in the continuum of care for our Veteran patients. Your responsibilities include:

Assessing, planning, and implementing patient care plans for orthopedic conditions.
Conducting comprehensive physical examinations and ordering necessary diagnostic studies.
Interpreting medical data to formulate accurate diagnoses.
Collaborating with surgeons and clinical service providers to manage patient outcomes.
Maintaining detailed patient records through the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS).
Participating in quality improvement, peer reviews, and performance measures (SAIL metrics).

Requirements

To be considered for this vital role, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Education: A Master's degree in any discipline or a Bachelor’s degree with at least one year of professional PA experience.
Certification: Must have passed the PA National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
Licensure: Must hold a full, unrestricted license to practice in any U.S. State or Territory.
English Proficiency: Must be proficient in both written and spoken English.
Clearance: Ability to pass a background/security investigation.

Grade Determination Comparison

Grade Level	Education/Experience Requirement	Focus Area
PA-II (Intermediate)	2 years experience OR Post-grad residency OR Doctoral degree	Clinical problem solving and autonomy
PA-III (Full Performance)	3 years experience OR Residency + 1 year exp OR Doctoral + 1 year exp	Clinical leadership and mentoring

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position ranges from $88,660 to $140,209 annually. The final salary is determined through a formal pay-setting process that accounts for your unique experience, education, and the specific grade level (PA-II or PA-III) at which you are selected.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides an unparalleled benefits package, including:

Health and Wellness: Premium federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and paid federal holidays.
Growth: Continued training opportunities and support for professional development.

Application Tips

Use the Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume document on their website. Ensure you use this for your primary submission.
Be Specific: Do not leave room for assumptions. Detail every aspect of your clinical background, including volunteer work.
Follow Deadlines: While the position remains open until September 2026, we review applications on a bi-weekly basis. Early application increases your chances of consideration.

If you are a Physician Assistant ready to bring your surgical and orthopedic expertise to a mission-critical role, we invite you to apply. This position is more than just a job; it is a way to give back to the men and women who have sacrificed so much. Apply today and start your journey with the VA.

Why This Physician Assistant (Surgery) Job Matters

Transform lives in a mission-driven environment—join the Veterans Health Administration as a Physician Assistant (Surgery) and provide elite care to our nation's heroes.

Physician Assistant (Surgery) Job Overview

The Central Alabama Veterans Health Care Administration is seeking a dedicated Physician Assistant to join our Orthopedic surgical team. This role is based in the vibrant community of Columbus, Georgia, where you will provide critical medical support to Veterans. You will operate in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment, managing patient care, performing diagnostic evaluations, and collaborating with top-tier surgical specialists to ensure the highest quality of healthcare outcomes.

Requirements for Physician Assistant (Surgery)

U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be appointed under specific conditions)
Master’s degree in any discipline OR a Bachelor’s degree with one year of PA experience
Successfully passed the PA National Certifying Exam (PANCE)
Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice as a PA in any U.S. State, Territory, or District
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications for Physician Assistant (Surgery)

5 years of professional clinical experience in Orthopedics as a Physician Assistant
Doctoral degree in a health-related field from an accredited institution
Completion of a VHA-sponsored or accredited PA post-graduate residency program

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
✓Participation in federal retirement systems (FERS/TSP)
✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing medical education (CME)
✓Mission-focused work environment with dedicated support staff

💡 How to Apply Physician Assistant (Surgery) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physician Assistant (Surgery) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Download and complete the standard Clinical Resume document template provided by the VA.
Upload your customized one-page clinical resume into the 'Resume' section.
Upload your full CV/detailed resume into the 'Other' section.
Complete the occupational questionnaire via the application link.
Submit your full application package before the bi-weekly cut-off dates.

💡 General Tips

Be precise and clear in your resume; the hiring board cannot make assumptions about your experience.
Include both paid and unpaid/volunteer clinical experience if applicable.
Check your USAJOBS account frequently for updates on your application status.
Ensure your license and PANCE certification status are explicitly stated.
Double-check that all required supporting documents like transcripts or DD-214 are attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an onsite position located in Columbus, Georgia. While some flexibility may exist, it is not a virtual role.

What is the salary range for this role?

The salary range for this position is $88,660 to $140,209 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level (PA-II to PA-III).

How often are applications reviewed?

This is an open continuous announcement. Initial referral occurs on June 29, 2026, with subsequent reviews held bi-weekly thereafter.

What is the work environment like?

*A: You will work in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment that values collaboration and continuous improvement.*

Is this role eligible for telework?

*A: Yes, certain aspects of the position may allow for telework, but this is an onsite clinical role based in Georgia.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate care to America's Veterans. By joining the VA, you become part of an innovative network focused on whole health. The Central Alabama healthcare system serves a vast geographic area, ensuring that our Veterans receive top-tier medical attention. As a member of the surgical service line, you will contribute to a culture of excellence, integrity, and interdisciplinary collaboration.