Advance Your Career as a Retina Specialist with the VA
Are you a dedicated ophthalmologist looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our country? The Wilmington VA Medical Center is currently accepting applications for a full-time Retina-specialized Ophthalmologist. This role offers the perfect blend of complex clinical practice, surgical independence, and the rewarding opportunity to teach the next generation of eye care professionals.
About the Wilmington VA Medical Center
Located in the heart of the northeast corridor, the Wilmington VA Medical Center provides comprehensive care to our nation's Veterans. We are approximately 40 minutes from Philadelphia and centrally located between New York City and Washington, D.C. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for our Veterans and their families through compassionate, whole-health care.
Key Responsibilities
As a staff ophthalmologist, you will function as a vital member of our surgical team. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Comprehensive Eye Care: Assessing and diagnosing a full spectrum of ophthalmic conditions.
- Specialized Retina Focus: Managing retinal diseases, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinal disorders.
- Surgical Practice: Performing surgical interventions, including the use of YAG, SLT, and Argon lasers.
- Mentorship: Supervising ophthalmology residents and assisting with educational programming.
- Collaborative Care: Working alongside optometrists, technicians, and other specialists to develop integrated treatment plans for complex medical cases.
Comparison: VA Medical Benefits vs. Private Practice
| Feature | VA Physician Role | Private Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Malpractice Insurance | Fully covered with tail coverage | Out-of-pocket or employer-subsidized |
| Retirement | Pension + 401k match | Primarily 401k only |
| Work-Life Balance | Standard Mon-Fri schedule | Often irregular/extended hours |
| Loan Forgiveness | Potential EDRP participation | Highly variable |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Background: A degree from an accredited school of allopathic or osteopathic medicine.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license from any U.S. state or territory.
- Training: Completion of an accredited residency program in ophthalmology.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is required for most federal appointments.
Salary and Total Rewards
The position offers a competitive salary range of $330,000 to $385,000. Beyond the base salary, physicians receive an extensive total rewards package that includes 50-55 days of leave, federal retirement benefits, and comprehensive health insurance coverage.
If you are an experienced retina specialist interested in a rewarding career that offers both clinical impact and professional stability, the Wilmington VA Medical Center is the place for you. Apply today to contribute to our mission of service.
Why This Physician - Ophthalmologist Retina (Open Continuous) Job Matters
Advance your medical career with the Department of Veterans Affairs: Providing world-class retina and ophthalmic care to those who have served our nation.
Physician - Ophthalmologist Retina (Open Continuous) Job Overview
The Wilmington VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated, Board-Eligible or Board-Certified Ophthalmologist with sub-specialty training in Retina to join our interdisciplinary Surgical Care team. This is a vital role where you will manage a diverse range of ophthalmic conditions, from diabetic retinopathy to macular degeneration, while mentoring the next generation of medical residents in a supportive clinical environment.
Requirements for Physician - Ophthalmologist Retina (Open Continuous)
- United States Citizenship (exceptions only in limited, agency-approved circumstances).
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited school.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice medicine or surgery in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA-approved residency training program.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Must be able to perform all core physical functions required of the position.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Ophthalmologist Retina (Open Continuous)
- Board Certification in Ophthalmology.
- Specialized training and clinical experience as a Retina Specialist.
- Experience in an academic setting involving the supervision and training of medical residents.
- Proven history of effective clinical management and patient safety oversight.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive base salary with annual performance bonus opportunities.
- ✓50-55 days of combined annual leave, sick leave, and paid Federal holidays.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Federal pension (FERS) and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with 5% agency match.
- ✓Professional liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓Relocation incentives and recruitment bonuses for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓CME reimbursement possibilities for board-certified physicians.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Ophthalmologist Retina (Open Continuous) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Ophthalmologist Retina (Open Continuous) Job
- Log in or register for an account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare your CV/resume and download the standard VA Clinical Resume document.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire through the online application portal.
- Submit your application, including your standard clinical resume and any additional supporting documentation.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal following the initial cut-off date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your retinal specialty experience.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided on the VA Careers website.
- Review your application for accuracy to prevent delays in the referral process.
- Veterans should ensure their DD214 and any relevant preference documentation are uploaded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work-life balance for this position?
The position features a stable Monday-through-Friday schedule, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with a call schedule that is shared among the ophthalmology team and residents.
Is a contract required for this role?
No, VA physician positions do not require a formal employment contract, and there are no significant restrictions on moonlighting.