Physician Assistant Careers: Serving Veterans in St. Louis
The VA Saint Louis Health Care System is currently seeking passionate and highly skilled Physician Assistants to join our primary care team. This role represents more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of serving the men and women who have dedicated their lives to our country. If you are an experienced PA looking to blend clinical expertise with leadership and a commitment to patient-centered care, we invite you to apply.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physician Assistant, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Performing comprehensive patient histories and physical examinations.
- Leading interdisciplinary PACT teams in managing chronic and complex diseases.
- Ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies like labs, EKGs, and imaging.
- Providing patient counseling regarding preventive care and medication usage.
- Functioning with substantial clinical independence while maintaining close collaboration with staff physicians.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A Master's degree (any discipline) OR a Bachelor's degree with 1+ years of PA experience.
- Successful completion of the PANCE certification.
- A full, unrestricted license to practice.
- Ability to pass background checks, pre-employment physicals, and drug screenings.
Salary Overview
Positions within the VA use a formal pay-setting process. The salary range for this role is between $115,898 and $204,005 per year, depending on individual qualifications and agency needs.
Comparison Table: Why Work for the VA vs. Private Practice
| Feature | VA Healthcare | Private Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Focus | Mission-driven, Veteran-focused | Profit-driven, volume-focused |
| Teamwork | Interdisciplinary, collaborative | Often siloed |
| Benefits | Robust Federal Package | Varies significantly |
| Stability | High | Market dependent |
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a total rewards package that includes competitive pay, federal health insurance, retirement planning, and an unwavering focus on the work-life balance required to sustain a long-term medical career.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the provided Clinical Resume Document link.
- Be Detailed: Do not skip describing your past volunteer or professional experience.
- Check Documentation: Ensure your DD-214 and state licenses are legible and current.
Serving as a Physician Assistant in the St. Louis VA system offers a unique professional journey. You will work in a world-class environment where your clinical decisions directly impact the health and quality of life of our nation's heroes. Submit your application today to join a team that values excellence and service above all else.
Why This Physician Assistant - Primary Care Services Job Matters
Advance your clinical career while directly impacting the lives of those who served our nation at the VA Saint Louis Health Care System.
Physician Assistant - Primary Care Services Job Overview
The VA Saint Louis Health Care System is seeking dedicated Physician Assistants (PAs) to join our Primary Care Services team. You will function as a vital leader within interdisciplinary health care teams, managing both chronic and complex diseases for our Veteran population. This role offers the opportunity to practice in a collaborative clinical environment, utilizing your expertise to provide comprehensive care that includes diagnostics, treatment planning, and health education at our Women's Clinic and Manchester Avenue locations.
Requirements for Physician Assistant - Primary Care Services
- Master's degree in any discipline OR a Bachelor's degree with at least one year of experience as a Physician Assistant.
- Successfully passed or currently scheduled to take the PA National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
- Must hold or be eligible for a full, unrestricted license to practice in a U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- U.S. Citizenship (or appointment of non-citizens when qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician Assistant - Primary Care Services
- Demonstrated experience providing primary care services.
- Prior clinical experience in women's health.
- Advanced clinical competency in managing complex or chronic patient conditions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Support for continuing medical education
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the VA system
💡 How to Apply Physician Assistant - Primary Care Services Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician Assistant - Primary Care Services Job
- Create or update your profile on the official federal employment portal.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA link.
- Upload the standard resume into the designated two-page restricted field.
- Upload your comprehensive CV and supporting documents (transcripts, licenses, DD-214) into the 'Other' section.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your final package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on July 26, 2027.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your clinical resume uses the specific VA-provided template to avoid technical disqualification.
- Be specific in your experience descriptions; do not assume the hiring panel knows your previous duties.
- Highlight your experience with PACT teams or complex chronic care management.
- Verify your eligibility documentation (transcripts and licenses) well before the closing date.
- Opt-in to the resume sharing feature if you are open to other potential federal opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the PA in the VA Saint Louis system?
The PA functions as a clinical leader within a Primary Care or PACT team, assessing patients, diagnosing conditions, prescribing treatments, and coordinating holistic care plans for Veterans.
Is telework available for this position?
This position is primarily onsite, though limited ad-hoc telework may be authorized based on operational needs.
Are there specific vaccination requirements?
Yes. As a condition of employment, all Health Care Personnel must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program or obtain a formal medical or religious exemption.
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 in our nation's military and for their families." The VA Saint Louis Health Care System operates as a two-campus, full-service tertiary referral center. We provide advanced care in over 65 subspecialty areas, ranging from interventional cardiology to neurology and rehabilitation, all within a vibrant, family-friendly city known as the Gateway to the West.