Providing Compassionate Care: Career Opportunities for Staff Psychologists at the Minneapolis VA

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to serving those who have served our country. At the Minneapolis VA Health Care System (MVAHCS), we are looking for a highly skilled and compassionate Staff Psychologist to join our Comprehensive Pain Center (CPC). This is a unique opportunity to work in a Level 1A complexity facility that serves over 100,000 Veterans, providing holistic mental health and rehabilitation support.

Job Responsibilities

As a Staff Psychologist, you will:

Conduct thorough psychological assessments for patients with complex mental and physical comorbidities.
Implement evidence-based treatments such as CBT for chronic pain, biofeedback, and group therapy.
Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of providers to ensure integrated care plans.
Facilitate educational sessions for Veterans and their families.
Contribute to research, program evaluation, and the clinical training of psychology interns and residents.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet rigorous professional standards:

Education: Doctoral degree (PhD/PsyD) from an APA or CPA accredited program.
Internship: Completion of a one-year professional psychology internship.
Licensure: Current, unrestricted state license to practice at the doctoral level.
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.

Salary Overview

Grade Level	Scope	Salary Range
GS-11	Entry Level	$81,415 - $150,852
GS-12	Developmental	$81,415 - $150,852
GS-13	Full Performance	$81,415 - $150,852

Note: Salary ranges are subject to annual adjustments and locality pay scales.

Benefits

The VA offers one of the most robust benefits packages in the country, designed to support the well-being of our employees and their families. This includes premium health, dental, and vision insurance, a comprehensive retirement savings plan, generous annual leave, and professional development stipends.

Application Tips

Standardize your resume: Use the required Clinical Resume document provided by the VA.
Highlight relevant experience: Specifically mention any experience with chronic pain management or behavioral medicine.
Follow documentation rules: Ensure every requested attachment, including your current license and graduate transcripts, is properly uploaded.

Joining the Minneapolis VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in the service of our nation's heroes. If you are a psychologist ready to advance your career while making a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans, we encourage you to apply to this announcement today.

Why This Staff Psychologist Job Matters

Advance your clinical career while serving our nation's heroes: The Minneapolis VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join an interdisciplinary team committed to comprehensive, whole-person care for Veterans.

Staff Psychologist Job Overview

The Minneapolis VA Health Care System is recruiting for an Intermittent Staff Psychologist to contribute to our Comprehensive Pain Center (CPC). Located within a premier academic medical environment, the CPC provides intensive, evidence-based pain rehabilitation. This role offers the opportunity to practice in a collaborative setting, utilizing advanced diagnostic, therapeutic, and interdisciplinary approaches to manage chronic pain and complex mental health needs for those who have served our country.

Requirements for Staff Psychologist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
Successfully completed a professional psychology internship accredited by the APA or CPA.
Possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State or Territory.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Subject to a successful background and security investigation.
Must participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist

Experience in clinical pain management and behavioral medicine.
Expertise in CBT for chronic pain, biofeedback, and evidence-based interventions.
Demonstrated ability to function within an interdisciplinary medical team.
Experience with academic teaching, clinical supervision of trainees, or research program evaluation.
Proven proficiency in consulting with medical staff and developing complex treatment plans.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous paid vacation time and federal holidays.
✓Sick leave accrual.
✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP).
✓Life insurance coverage.
✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
✓Potential for service credit toward annual leave based on prior experience.

💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Staff Psychologist Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA career site.
Prepare your documentation: Resume, official transcripts, and current psychology license.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview invitations.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your experience as it relates to the specific Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed.
Be precise regarding dates of employment and specific populations treated.
Upload the required one-page Clinical Resume Document in the restricted field to avoid automated rejection.
Review your application thoroughly to ensure all required transcripts and license copies are attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this psychology position?

This role is based in the Comprehensive Pain Center (CPC), focusing on assessing and treating Veterans with complex mental and physical health issues related to chronic pain.

Is this position eligible for telework?

This role is generally on-site, though it is categorized as 'Ad-Hoc' telework eligible depending on facility needs.

What level of experience is required for this role?

The position ranges from GS-11 to GS-13. Entry-level (GS-11) requires completion of basic requirements, while higher grades (GS-12/13) require specific years of professional experience.

Do I need prior VA experience?

*A: No, we encourage applications from all qualified clinical psychologists, regardless of prior federal experience.*

Is this a permanent position?

*A: This is an excepted service position with potential for long-term career growth within the VA system.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Minneapolis VA Health Care System is not just a medical center; it is an academic powerhouse and a pillar of the community. Located near Minnehaha Regional Park, our system includes the main medical center and 13 Community Based Outpatient Clinics across Minnesota and Wisconsin. We emphasize whole-health care, blending advanced technology with compassionate, patient-centered service.