Embark on a Rewarding Career as an Occupational Therapist with the VA
Are you a dedicated Occupational Therapist seeking a role that combines clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring for an Occupational Therapist position within the South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) in Victoria, Texas. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who have served our nation while advancing your clinical career in a high-impact environment.
Job Responsibilities
As an Occupational Therapist at the STVHCS, you will work within the Geriatrics and Extended Care Service. Your core duties include:
- Performing comprehensive functional assessments using standardized evaluation tools.
- Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans for Veterans with neurological or musculoskeletal trauma.
- Providing consultative services for patients requiring adaptive equipment, orthotics, or splints.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians and prosthetics departments, to ensure seamless patient care.
- Mentoring students and participating in clinical training programs.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in occupational therapy from an ACOTE-accredited program.
- Possess a current, full, and unrestricted state license.
- Maintain current NBCOT certification.
- Demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English.
Grade Level Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Education/Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-9 | Entry level; meets basic licensure and educational requirements. |
| GS-11 | One year of specialized experience or three years of graduate education. |
| GS-12 | One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $68,549 to $118,072, depending on your qualifications, experience, and the assigned grade level.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust suite of federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Earned annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for professional growth and clinical in-service training.
Application Tips
- Use the Standardized Resume: The VA requires a specific clinical resume format. Download the provided template to ensure your application is processed correctly.
- Be Specific: Quantify your experience. Don't just list tasks—explain the clinical outcomes of your interventions.
- Review Requirements: Ensure your license and certification information is current and easily verifiable.
Serving as an Occupational Therapist for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to quality care for our nation's heroes. If you possess the passion and qualifications to help Veterans achieve their highest level of function, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Occupational Therapist Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the South Texas Veterans Health Care System as an Occupational Therapist.
Occupational Therapist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to join the South Texas Veterans Health Care System in Victoria, Texas. This role focuses on the Geriatrics and Extended Care Service, where you will provide vital, independent assessments and treatment plans to improve the quality of life for our Veterans. You will work within a supportive, multidisciplinary team, utilizing evidence-based practices to assist patients with neurological and musculoskeletal injuries, while helping them regain functional independence.
Requirements for Occupational Therapist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Active, full, and unrestricted state license to practice occupational therapy
- Current NBCOT certification as an Occupational Therapist
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Current, valid state-issued driver's license
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist
- Doctorate in occupational therapy
- Three years of progressively higher-level graduate education in occupational therapy
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 or GS-11 grade level
- Demonstrated clinical reasoning and critical analysis skills in complex patient scenarios
- Experience with orthoses, splinting, and adaptive equipment fabrication
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Annual Leave Accrual based on service tenure
- ✓Comprehensive Health Insurance options
- ✓Federal Retirement Benefits
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical training
- ✓Supportive work-life balance
💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Occupational Therapist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume document from the provided VA careers link.
- Prepare your full CV/resume and supporting documentation (transcripts, licenses, etc.).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online portal.
- Upload all required documents, ensuring the standard resume is in the restricted field.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is clear and specific; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Highlight both paid and volunteer work that relates to occupational therapy competencies.
- Verify your license and certification are current and in good standing before applying.
- Check your status regularly through the USAJOBS portal after submitting.
- If you are a Veteran, ensure you have your DD-214 ready for preference claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full performance level of this position?
The full performance level for this Occupational Therapist vacancy is GS-12.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
Graduate OTs may be appointed under a temporary status while pursuing licensure, provided they meet specific requirements and serve under the supervision of a licensed OT.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
How often is the position reviewed?
Applications are reviewed bi-weekly starting July 15, 2026, until the position is filled.
Is this a remote role?
This is an on-site position in Victoria, Texas, with potential for ad-hoc telework only.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The South Texas Veterans Health Care System is one of the nation's premier VA networks, serving 35 counties and over 114,000 Veterans. By joining our team, you become part of a mission-driven organization committed to "caring for those who have served." Our system provides comprehensive medical, surgical, and rehabilitation care, supported by advanced research and educational initiatives.