Physician Assistant Opportunities at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated Physician Assistant to join the team at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. This role offers a unique opportunity to provide high-quality medical services within a military healthcare environment, directly impacting the lives of service members, retirees, and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physician Assistant, your primary duty is to ensure the health and medical readiness of your patients. Key tasks include:
- Performing medical screening examinations for patients of all ages.
- Conducting patient work-ups, including physical exams and history taking.
- Ordering and interpreting laboratory tests and imaging, such as X-rays.
- Diagnosing and treating acute and chronic illnesses.
- Educating patients and their families on treatment plans and health maintenance.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-12 position, candidates must meet specific criteria set forth by the federal government:
- Education: Completion of an ARC-PA accredited PA program.
- Certification: Current NCCPA certification and active, unrestricted state licensure.
- Experience: At least one full year of specialized professional experience as a certified Physician Assistant.
- Security: Ability to maintain a Secret security clearance.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | ARC-PA Accredited Degree |
| Experience | Min 1 Year at GS-11 equivalent |
| License | Current & Unrestricted State License |
| Drug Test | Required |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package, with an annual salary range of $127,999 to $166,402. The salary is inclusive of locality pay, reflecting the local market supplement for the Portsmouth area.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a wide range of benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous retirement planning through the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Federal service credit toward retirement.
- Structured career progression and development programs.
Application Tips
- Focus on the Resume: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less. Use plain language and clearly state your hours per week for all previous positions.
- Supporting Docs: Do not forget to attach your transcripts and professional license copies.
- Quality Control: Once you upload your documents, they will undergo a virus scan. Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical glitches.
Serving at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth is a rewarding way to advance your career as a Physician Assistant while supporting the military mission. With excellent benefits, a robust salary, and the opportunity to serve those who protect our nation, this is an ideal role for an experienced medical professional. Apply today to begin your federal career.
Why This Physician Assistant Job Matters
Join the elite medical team at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, providing mission-critical care to those who serve our country.
Physician Assistant Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Physician Assistant to join the Directorate of Medicine at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. This position focuses on providing comprehensive medical care, ranging from routine examinations to the management of chronic conditions, within an integrated military healthcare environment. This is a vital role for an experienced professional committed to supporting the health and readiness of military members and their families.
Requirements for Physician Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Graduation from an ARC-PA accredited Physician Assistant program.
- Successful completion of the NCCPA examination and maintenance of current certification.
- Possession of a current, active, full, and unrestricted state-level license.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience as a certified Physician Assistant at the GS-11 equivalent level or higher.
- Must be able to pass a drug test and obtain a Secret security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician Assistant
- Experience in an inpatient or outpatient emergency medicine setting.
- Demonstrated ability to perform medical history documentation and narrative summaries efficiently.
- Strong proficiency in patient education and communication techniques.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement programs including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance programs.
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives for highly qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Physician Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation: license, transcripts, and professional certifications.
- Verify all uploaded documents have passed the system's virus scan.
- Submit your complete application package before the August 24, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages; documents exceeding this length will be automatically excluded.
- Include specific details regarding your work history, such as hours worked per week and exact employment dates.
- Avoid using technical jargon or acronyms that may be unfamiliar to HR staff.
- Double-check that all supporting documents, specifically your license and transcripts, are attached before clicking submit.
- Log in periodically to check your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the required experience?
No. For this specific position, you must meet the qualification requirements based on professional experience alone.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically removed from consideration.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance and is subject to a drug testing requirement.
Are recruitment incentives available?
Yes, recruitment incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates based on agency needs.
Can I apply if I have worked as a PA for only 6 months?
No, the position requires at least one full year of specialized experience.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is a joint, integrated Combat Support Agency that enables the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Air Force medical services to provide a medically ready force and a ready medical force. By serving at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, you become part of a strategic organization dedicated to worldwide medical excellence, ensuring that our nation's heroes receive the care they deserve.