Lead Clinical Excellence: Supervisory Physical Therapist (Service Chief) at the Cincinnati VA

Are you a seasoned Physical Therapist with a passion for leadership and improving patient outcomes for those who served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly qualified professional for the role of Supervisory Physical Therapist (Service Chief) at the Cincinnati VA Medical Center. This is a pivotal role for a leader who values interdisciplinary care, strategic innovation, and professional growth.

Job Responsibilities

As the Chief of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) Service, your reach will be broad and your impact significant. You will:

Direct Clinical Operations: Oversee all aspects of Physiatry, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Pain Management, and specialty programs like Traumatic Brain Injury and Amputee Services.
Administrative Leadership: Manage the service budget, handle personnel requirements, and negotiate contracts.
Strategic Development: Represent the facility at regional (VISN) and national levels to align local efforts with VHA goals.
Mentorship: Provide clinical and administrative oversight to a diverse staff of therapists and team leaders.

Requirements

To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet the following baseline standards:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license in any U.S. state or territory.
Education: A graduate of a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program.
Experience: One year of progressively complex experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.

Comparison Table: Candidate Profiles

Feature	Preferred Candidate	Basic Requirement
Experience	3-5 years Federal Management	1 year at GS-13 level
Accreditations	ACGME/Site Director Exp	CAPTE Accredited Degree
Focus	Strategic Planning	Clinical Proficiency

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this role is $139,680 to $181,589 per year. Benefits include robust healthcare coverage, a federal retirement plan, and generous vacation accrual based on your years of service. You may also be eligible for recruitment incentives.

Application Tips

Use the Template: Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to avoid processing delays.
Quantify Results: When describing your leadership, use metrics to show your impact on patient wait times, staff retention, or budget efficiency.
Apply Early: The announcement has a long window, but initial referrals happen monthly starting in September.

Serving as the Service Chief at the Cincinnati VA is more than just a job; it is a chance to define the future of rehabilitation medicine for our Veterans. If you possess the clinical skill and administrative vision to lead, we encourage you to apply today.

Why This Supervisory Physical Therapist (Service Chief) Job Matters

Lead a legacy of care as the Chief of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Cincinnati VA Medical Center.

Supervisory Physical Therapist (Service Chief) Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a visionary Supervisory Physical Therapist to serve as the Service Chief for Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) in Cincinnati, Ohio. In this critical leadership role, you will oversee a multidisciplinary team providing vital services including Physical and Occupational Therapy, Pain Management, and specialized care for Polytrauma and Spinal Cord injuries. This position is perfect for a seasoned clinical leader who excels in strategic planning, resource management, and fostering environments of clinical excellence within a complex, patient-centered healthcare system.

Requirements for Supervisory Physical Therapist (Service Chief)

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Possess a valid driver's license.
Must have a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice Physical Therapy in any U.S. state, territory, or district.
Proficiency in written and spoken English as required by 38 U.S.C.
Completion of a CAPTE-accredited Physical Therapy degree program.
Successful completion of a background/security investigation and pre-employment physical.
Ability to complete a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Physical Therapist (Service Chief)

3-5 years of experience in Federal Healthcare managing a medium to large clinical section.
Directorship experience in ACGME-accredited programs involving university-affiliated health trainees.
Deep understanding of complex accreditation requirements for rehabilitation service lines.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive Federal health insurance plans.
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical leadership.
✓Eligibility for student loan repayment assistance (where applicable).
✓Access to a supportive, mission-driven work environment.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Physical Therapist (Service Chief) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Physical Therapist (Service Chief) Job

Register for a USAJOBS account if you do not already have one.
Prepare your resume using the standard Clinical Resume Document template provided by the VA.
Upload your full professional CV alongside the required clinical resume document.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the USA Staffing link.
Submit all supporting documentation, including transcripts and, if applicable, military service records (DD-214) or licensure proof.
Confirm the submission of your application through your USAJOBS dashboard before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume—the hiring panel cannot make assumptions about your experience.
Highlight your leadership in managing budgets, personnel, and large-scale clinical projects.
Ensure your professional license is current and verifiable.
Submit early, as the agency may process applications in monthly cycles beginning in September.
Use the provided Clinical Resume template precisely to ensure your application meets administrative requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of the PM&R Service Chief?

The Chief is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating all facets of the PM&R service, including Physiatry, PT, OT, and specialized pain management programs to improve Veteran health outcomes.

Can I apply if I am not currently a Federal employee?

Yes, this position is open to the public.

What level of complexity is the Cincinnati facility?

The Cincinnati VA Medical Center is a level 3 complexity facility, managing a wide geographical catchment area and requiring advanced leadership skills.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Providing care for our nation's Veterans is a mission rooted in excellence and compassion. At the Cincinnati VA, you will join a team committed to a "Whole Health" system of care, which empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being. The facility serves an extensive region, including Southwest Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and Southeast Indiana.