Lead Psychiatric Care in the Rogue Valley: A Career at the VA
The VA Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center and Clinics (VA SORCC) is seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Physician to serve as the Psychiatry Lead. This is more than just a clinical position; it is an opportunity to lead, innovate, and provide essential mental health services to the men and women who have served our country. Located in the picturesque town of White City, Oregon, this role offers the perfect balance of a high-impact career and a nature-filled lifestyle.
Job Responsibilities
As the Lead Psychiatrist, your role is divided between hands-on clinical excellence and administrative oversight:
- Clinical Care (80%): You will perform psychiatric assessments, medication management, and evidence-based psychotherapy within both residential and outpatient settings.
- Leadership (20%): You will act as a clinical advisor, guiding the practice of psychiatry at the VA SORCC and ensuring that our behavioral health programs meet the highest standards of care.
Comparison: Traditional Practice vs. VA Psychiatry Lead
| Feature | Traditional Private Practice | VA Psychiatry Lead Role |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Population | Diverse/General | Dedicated to Veterans |
| Malpractice | Out-of-pocket costs | Fully covered with tail coverage |
| Loan Repayment | Rare | EDRP (up to $200k) available |
| Moonlighting | Often restricted | No significant restrictions |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must be a U.S. citizen (or meet specific criteria for non-citizens) and possess a degree of Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine. A full, unrestricted license to practice in any U.S. state is mandatory. You must have completed an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency program. Proficiency in English and the ability to clear background and drug screenings are essential prerequisites for employment.
Salary and Benefits
Physicians at this level can expect a highly competitive salary range between $200,000 and $300,000. Beyond the paycheck, the federal total rewards package includes:
- Generous Paid Time Off (up to 55 days including holidays and CME).
- Federal pension and 401k matching.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
If you are a psychiatrist who values clinical leadership and the chance to make a lasting impact, this role in White City, Oregon, is the ideal next step. The combination of professional support, financial incentives like the EDRP, and the beauty of the Rogue Valley creates an unparalleled work environment.
Why This Physician (Psychiatry Lead) Job Matters
Lead psychiatric care for our nation's heroes in the scenic Rogue Valley. Join the VA Southern Oregon team and help transform lives through compassionate, evidence-based behavioral health leadership.
Physician (Psychiatry Lead) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Physician to serve as a Psychiatry Lead at the VA Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center and Clinics (VA SORCC) in White City, Oregon. This dual-focus role allocates 80% of your time to direct patient care—ranging from residential rehabilitation to outpatient behavioral health—and 20% to providing expert clinical leadership and guidance for the Behavioral Health Service Line. Nestled in the beautiful Rogue Valley, this position offers a unique blend of high-impact clinical work, professional autonomy, and an exceptional quality of life.
Requirements for Physician (Psychiatry Lead)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Completed residency training in an ACGME or AOA accredited program
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Psychiatry Lead)
- Completion of a Psychiatry Residency at an APA Accredited Training Program
- Board certification in Psychiatry (Board eligible candidates will be considered)
- Professional experience in psychiatric residential care units and Acute Psychiatric Units (APUs)
- Minimum of one year of experience in clinical program leadership or management
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonuses
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓50-55 days of paid time off (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays)
- ✓Federal retirement pension and 401k plan with 5% employer matching
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Malpractice liability protection with tail coverage
- ✓CME reimbursement of up to $1,000 annually
💡 How to Apply Physician (Psychiatry Lead) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician (Psychiatry Lead) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your CV and the mandatory one-page clinical resume template.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package via the USAJOBS portal.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA clinical resume template provided on the VA Careers website to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
- Clearly highlight your leadership experience, as this role involves a significant management component.
- Ensure your DD214 is ready if you are a veteran claiming preference.
- Submit your application well before the deadline, as the position may close early if a selection is made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on eligibility.
What is the clinical vs. leadership split for this role?
The position is structured as 80% direct patient care and 20% dedicated to Lead Psychiatrist responsibilities, including program guidance and clinical oversight.
Can I hold a private practice outside of this position?
Yes, there are no significant restrictions on moonlighting, provided it does not interfere with your duties at the VA.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served. Our core I-CARE values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide every interaction. When you join the VHA, you become part of an integrated network committed to providing comprehensive, whole-health care to our nation’s heroes.