Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist at the Coatesville VA Medical Center
Are you a dedicated psychologist looking to transition your clinical skills into a mission-driven environment? The Coatesville VA Medical Center is currently seeking a motivated Staff Psychologist to join their Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program. This is an exceptional opportunity to support the men and women who have served our country while enjoying the stability and comprehensive benefits of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, your role is multifaceted, focusing on providing high-quality care to Veterans with complex mental health needs, particularly those struggling with PTSD and substance use disorders. Your primary duties will include:
- Clinical Diagnosis: Performing thorough psychological and neuropsychological assessments.
- Treatment Planning: Implementing evidence-based psychotherapy across individual, group, and family modalities.
- Consultation: Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to address patient care issues.
- Research & Education: Participating in program evaluations and supporting the development of psychology interns.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet several baseline federal criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Doctoral degree in Psychology (APA/PCSAS/CPA accredited) |
| Internship | Successfully completed accredited professional internship |
| Licensure | Full, current, and unrestricted state license |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a highly competitive salary range of $91,960 to $170,391, reflecting the clinical expertise required. Beyond the salary, the VA offers a "Total Rewards" package that is difficult to match in the private sector:
- Student Loan Relief: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can reimburse up to $200,000 in student loans.
- Generous Leave: Accrue between 37 and 50 days of paid time off annually.
- Retirement: Access to a traditional federal pension and a 401(k)-style plan with agency matching.
- Insurance: A wide selection of health, dental, vision, and long-term care plans.
Application Tips
Navigating the federal hiring process requires precision. Start by ensuring your USAJOBS profile is up to date. Specifically, download the VA-provided clinical resume template; using this document ensures that your experience is formatted in a way that resonates with hiring managers. When writing your professional history, be explicit—do not assume the hiring panel knows the scope of your previous duties. Connect your volunteer and professional experience directly to the required competencies listed in the announcement.
A role at the Coatesville VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of America's Veterans. With the combination of loan repayment, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to perform impactful clinical work, this position offers a pathway to a long and rewarding career in federal healthcare. Apply today to begin your journey with the VA.
Why This Staff Psychologist Job Matters
Advance your career in clinical psychology while making a profound difference in the lives of those who served our nation. Join the Coatesville VA Medical Center as a Staff Psychologist and gain access to industry-leading benefits, including significant student loan repayment support.
Staff Psychologist Job Overview
The Coatesville VA Medical Center is seeking a compassionate and skilled Staff Psychologist to provide comprehensive, evidence-based mental health services. Working within the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program, you will play a critical role in treating Veterans navigating complex challenges such as substance use disorders and PTSD. This position offers a collaborative environment where clinical excellence, research, and professional growth are prioritized, all while serving the dedicated men and women of our military community.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply only if no qualified citizens are available)
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by the APA or CPA
- Current, full, and unrestricted state license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist
- Advanced training and clinical experience in evidence-based psychotherapies for PTSD
- Demonstrated ability to perform clinical research and program evaluation
- Experience in providing professional consultation and supervision to interns
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- âś“37-50 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- âś“Traditional federal pension and 401(k) with 5% matching
- âś“Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- âś“Child care subsidy eligibility
- âś“Ad-hoc telework opportunities
đź’ˇ How to Apply Staff Psychologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume, ensuring you include all relevant clinical and volunteer experience.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA website.
- Submit the full application package, including transcripts and necessary certifications, through the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Upload the specific VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your application is processed correctly.
- Be specific and thorough in your descriptions of past clinical work; the agency cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your license status is current and clearly documented.
- If you are a veteran or transitioning service member, utilize the VA for Vets career-search tools for additional guidance.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program approval.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?
Non-licensed applicants may be appointed as a 'graduate psychologist' temporarily for up to two years, provided they are under the supervision of a licensed psychologist while obtaining licensure.
What is the work-life balance like at the Coatesville VA?
Staff enjoy a consistent Monday–Friday schedule, generous annual leave, federal holidays, and access to telework options, supporting a sustainable career in public service.
Is telework an option for this role?
*A: Yes, ad-hoc telework is available, though this is primarily an on-site, patient-facing position.*
What is the trial period?
*A: New federal employees must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and mission alignment.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the largest integrated health care system in the nation. Driven by the mission to care for those who have served, the VA operates under the core values of Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—collectively known as "I CARE." By joining the team in Coatesville, you are becoming part of a community that values clinical innovation, whole health, and the professional growth of its providers.