Advance Your Career: Physician Assistant Opportunities in Behavioral Health
Are you a dedicated Physician Assistant looking to transition into a role where your clinical expertise directly improves the lives of our nation's Veterans? The James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center in Altoona, Pennsylvania, is currently inviting skilled and compassionate PAs to join our Behavioral Health team. This is a unique opportunity to practice at the full performance level within a supportive, mission-driven environment.
About the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center
Located in the heart of Pennsylvania, the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center serves a vast 14-county region. Our facility, along with several community-based outpatient clinics, provides comprehensive care ranging from acute and specialty medicine to pharmacy and social services. Our mission is to fulfill the promise of care for those who have served, making this an ideal workplace for professionals who prioritize patient-centered outcomes.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physician Assistant in Behavioral Health, you will act as a pivotal member of the medical team. Responsibilities include:
- Patient Care Coordination: Establishing diagnoses, formulating care plans, and managing patient follow-ups.
- Diagnostic Evaluation: Ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies including MRIs, CT scans, and lab work.
- Clinical Procedures: Obtaining informed consent, performing procedures, and managing emergency care when a physician is not immediately available.
- Patient Education: Counseling families and Veterans on medical conditions, preventive care, and life-sustaining treatment options.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers to provide holistic treatment.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field |
| Certification | Must have passed the PANCE exam |
| Licensure | Current, unrestricted license in any U.S. State or Territory |
| Eligibility | Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen |
| Background | Must pass a pre-employment security investigation and physical |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $97,247 to $174,377 per year. Beyond the base compensation, the Department of Veterans Affairs provides a comprehensive package designed to support your long-term success:
- EDRP: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program with potential awards up to $200,000.
- Insurance: Extensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Flexibility: Paid time off and consistent scheduling in a stable professional environment.
Application Tips
Navigating the federal hiring process requires precision. Start by ensuring you download the standardized VA clinical resume template to capture your experience correctly. Be descriptive in your questionnaire responses, as hiring officials cannot make assumptions about your previous duties. Finally, ensure all supporting documents—including your state licenses and transcripts—are uploaded clearly before the deadline.
Choosing a career with the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in the service of Veterans. If you are a Physician Assistant ready to take on the rewarding challenge of behavioral health care in Altoona, we encourage you to submit your application by August 28, 2026.
Why This Physician Assistant - Behavioral Health Job Matters
Advance your clinical career while serving our nation's heroes. Join the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center and make a profound impact in behavioral health.
Physician Assistant - Behavioral Health Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Physician Assistant to join our Behavioral Health team in Altoona, Pennsylvania. This role offers a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive, compassionate care to Veterans, utilizing advanced clinical judgment to support mental health, acute care, and patient advocacy within an interdisciplinary environment. Successful candidates will enjoy a competitive salary, robust federal benefits, and the potential for significant student loan repayment through the Education Debt Reduction Program.
Requirements for Physician Assistant - Behavioral Health
- U.S. Citizenship or qualified non-citizenship status.
- Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with one year of PA experience.
- Successful completion of the PA National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
- Current, full, and unrestricted state license to practice.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician Assistant - Behavioral Health
- Professional experience in a mental health or behavioral health setting.
- Demonstrated ability to function autonomously in complex medical environments.
- Experience with interdisciplinary team collaboration and telehealth services.
- Completion of a VA-accredited or professional PA residency program.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive salary within federal pay scales.
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- âś“Comprehensive health insurance plans.
- âś“Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- âś“Generous paid time off, including federal holidays and sick leave.
- âś“Professional liability protection.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Physician Assistant - Behavioral Health Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician Assistant - Behavioral Health Job
- Create a USAJOBS account if you do not have one.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume document.
- Upload your resume and all necessary supporting documents (licensure, transcripts, etc.).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of August 28, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific and thorough when describing your clinical experience to ensure accurate grade determination.
- Ensure your resume is formatted according to the VA’s clinical requirements.
- Double-check that all required documents, such as your DD-214 or transcripts, are attached.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the announcement closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The annual salary for this Physician Assistant role ranges from $97,247 to $174,377, depending on experience and qualifications.
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers reimbursement for qualified student loans up to $200,000.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an onsite position located at the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center in Altoona, PA.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
How do I prove my education for federal hiring?
You must provide transcripts from an institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Foreign degrees require a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency.