Advance Your Career: Staff Psychologist in Pain Management at the VA Central Iowa
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class, holistic care to the men and women who have defended our nation. We are currently seeking a compassionate and highly skilled Staff Psychologist to join the VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines. This role is dedicated to the Pain Management Team, focusing on evidence-based behavioral health interventions for Veterans dealing with chronic pain. If you are passionate about clinical excellence and want to be part of a mission that prioritizes the patient experience, we invite you to apply.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist specializing in Pain Management, you will be integral to the clinical success of our patients. Your primary duties include:
- Delivering evidence-based interventions like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP).
- Conducting psychological assessments and diagnosing mental health disorders.
- Serving as an active member of the interdisciplinary Pain Management Team.
- Developing and evaluating treatment plans tailored to the complex needs of adult patients.
- Participating in clinical program development and ongoing medical research.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Skill Category | Expected Proficiency | Impact on Care |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Treatment | Expert | Improved Patient Outcomes |
| Team Collaboration | High | Integrated Care Delivery |
| Program Evaluation | Moderate | Long-term Quality Assurance |
| Research Execution | Moderate | Innovation in Pain Care |
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent educational and professional standards to qualify for this critical role, including:
- A doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program.
- Completion of an accredited internship.
- Possession of a current, unrestricted professional license (for GS-13).
- Proficiency in English and U.S. Citizenship status.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $82,193 to $152,294 per year, commensurate with your qualifications and experience level (GS-11 through GS-13).
Benefits
Beyond salary, we offer the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 for student loan reimbursement, along with standard federal health, retirement, and leave benefits.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume includes detailed descriptions of your clinical experience. Use the required VA-provided clinical resume format to guarantee your application is processed efficiently. Proofread your documents and ensure all transcripts are attached.
Join the VA Central Iowa team and use your expertise to transform the lives of our Veterans. Apply today and help us fulfill the promise of providing the highest quality healthcare to those who have served.
Why This Staff Psychologist-Pain Management Job Matters
Transform lives by providing specialized pain management care to our nation's heroes. The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our multidisciplinary team and make a tangible impact on Veteran health.
Staff Psychologist-Pain Management Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is hiring a Staff Psychologist specializing in Pain Management at the VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines. This role is pivotal in delivering evidence-based, whole-health psychological interventions. As a key member of the Pain Management Team, you will apply a biopsychosocial approach to care, utilizing your expertise to help Veterans manage complex pain through individual and group therapy. This position offers a rewarding career path with growth potential from GS-11 to GS-13, student loan repayment support, and the chance to contribute to meaningful clinical research and program development.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist-Pain Management
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment conditions are met).
- Doctoral degree in psychology (APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited) or equivalent re-specialization program.
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA (or approved equivalents).
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level (required for GS-13).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation and drug screening.
- Must be able to provide required transcripts and professional documentation.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist-Pain Management
- Demonstrated expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP).
- Experience working in a multidisciplinary, team-based pain clinic environment.
- Proven ability to design and implement clinical treatment plans for complex patient populations.
- Strong skills in clinical research coordination and program evaluation.
- Experience with electronic health record documentation and performance measure compliance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualifying loans).
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical research.
- ✓Supportive, mission-driven work environment in a Whole Health System.
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist-Pain Management Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist-Pain Management Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement and confirm your eligibility.
- Prepare your resume, academic transcripts, and clinical credentials.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume document from the VA career portal.
- Create or log in to your USAJobs account.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire and upload all required documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 14, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your application package is complete, including all necessary transcripts and current SF-50s if you are a federal employee.
- Be specific in your resume about your pain management experience to ensure you are accurately credited for your clinical skills.
- Use the designated VA clinical resume template to streamline the process.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.
- Contact the provided Human Resources representative early if you have questions regarding the EDRP process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for eligible candidates.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?
The GS-13 level requires a full, unrestricted license. Individuals at the GS-11 or GS-12 levels may be eligible depending on their experience, but must adhere to supervisory requirements.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Des Moines, Iowa, and is not eligible for telework or virtual status.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Is a drug test required?
Yes, all candidates for this position must undergo a drug screening as part of the onboarding process.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. The VA Central Iowa Health Care System serves Veterans through a network of clinics and a main medical campus. Our focus is on "Whole Health," an approach that goes beyond treating symptoms to empowering Veterans to take charge of their well-being in collaboration with a dedicated team of providers.