Advance Your Career as a Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist) at the VA Black Hills
If you are a highly skilled Physical Therapist with a passion for chronic pain management, the VA Black Hills Health Care System invites you to apply for our Clinical Specialist vacancy. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide specialized, patient-centered care to our nation's Veterans while advancing your professional expertise in a supportive, multidisciplinary environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Specialist, you will act as a primary subject matter expert. Key duties include:
- Planning complex, innovative treatment programs for chronic pain.
- Serving as a consultant to other medical professionals.
- Leading multidisciplinary team discussions on patient care.
- Mentoring staff and students in specialized PT techniques.
- Utilizing cutting-edge research to adapt and improve treatment modalities.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet stringent federal standards:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted state license.
- Education: A degree from a CAPTE-accredited institution.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or higher.
Salary Overview
This position is classified under the GS-13 pay scale, with an annual salary range of $106,437 to $138,370, depending on experience and qualifications.
Comparison Table: Clinical Specialist Roles
| Feature | Standard Physical Therapist | Clinical Specialist (Pain) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | General Rehabilitation | Chronic Pain Specialty |
| Leadership | Clinical Team Member | Consultant/Mentor |
| Decision Making | Routine | Highly Independent |
| Certification | State License | Advanced Cert/Fellowship |
Benefits
Working for the VA provides access to federal benefits, including:
- Robust health and life insurance.
- Paid federal holidays and sick leave.
- Retirement and savings plans.
- Opportunities for specialized training.
Application Tips
Ensure your application is complete. Do not assume hiring managers know your background—be specific in describing your clinical experience. Always double-check the 'Required Documents' section before hitting submit.
This role is perfect for a driven physical therapist looking to specialize and make a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans. Apply today to help us uphold our promise to those who have served.
Why This Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist)-Pain Job Matters
Join the VA Black Hills team and transform the lives of Veterans as a Clinical Specialist in chronic pain management.
Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist)-Pain Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist) to join our team in Fort Meade, South Dakota. This position serves as a subject matter expert, providing advanced, evidence-based care for Veterans suffering from complex chronic pain conditions. You will play a pivotal role in multidisciplinary teams, guiding treatment strategies and mentoring staff to ensure the highest standard of whole-person care.
Requirements for Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist)-Pain
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment conditions are met).
- Current, unrestricted physical therapy license in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Graduate of a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical and driving examination.
- Valid state-issued driver's license.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
- Adherence to seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist)-Pain
- Prior clinical experience or training within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).
- Specialized training or certification in chronic pain management.
- ABPTS Board Certification in a relevant specialty.
- Completion of a post-graduate physical therapy fellowship program.
- Advanced degree in a physical therapy-related field.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and advancement opportunities.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance packages.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including federal holidays and sick leave.
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-equivalent).
- ✓Professional development, training, and mentorship programs.
- ✓Flexible work-life balance in the scenic Black Hills region.
💡 How to Apply Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist)-Pain Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist)-Pain Job
- Log in or register on the USAJobs portal.
- Review the full job announcement and required documents checklist.
- Download and complete the required one-page Clinical Resume document.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, license, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) outlined in the position description.
- Double-check that you have uploaded the mandatory one-page clinical resume template.
- Submit all documents well in advance of the deadline to account for potential technical issues.
- Clearly document all qualifying experience, including unpaid volunteer or clinical rotation hours.
- Use the provided online status tracker to monitor your application progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is an on-site position based in Fort Meade, South Dakota, with only ad-hoc telework options available based on supervisor discretion.
What is the closing date for this application?
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on August 11, 2026.
Are there recruitment incentives for this role?
Relocation and recruitment incentives are currently not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work schedule?
Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, all new appointees to this position serve a 1 to 2-year trial period.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to those who have served. The VA Black Hills Health Care System provides a range of services across Western South Dakota, Nebraska, and Wyoming. Our team operates with a 'Whole Health' philosophy, focusing on the veteran as a whole person, not just their symptoms.