Become an Occupational Therapist with the VA in Grand Island

Are you a skilled Occupational Therapist looking for a role that combines professional clinical growth with the opportunity to serve those who have served our nation? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Grand Island, Nebraska, is currently seeking a passionate professional to provide high-level care to our Veterans. This position is vital to our mission, ensuring that our heroes regain their independence and improve their quality of life through expert therapeutic intervention.

Job Responsibilities

As an Occupational Therapist, you will be responsible for a wide range of clinical duties, including:

Conducting comprehensive OT evaluations for inpatients and outpatients.
Developing individualized treatment plans using evidence-based practice.
Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, social workers, and psychologists.
Fabricating and modifying adaptive equipment, splints, and orthoses.
Documenting care in accordance with VA policies and standards.

Comparison of Clinical Requirements

Grade Level	Education/Experience Requirement
GS-9	Entry Level: Basic educational and licensure requirements.
GS-11	One year of specialized experience or three years of graduate education.
GS-12	One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level.

Requirements

Education: A degree from an ACOTE-accredited occupational therapy program.
Licensing: Active, unrestricted state license and current NBCOT certification.
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Communication: Proficiency in spoken and written English.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $116,362 per year. Compensation is determined based on the applicant's qualifications and the GS grade level attained upon hiring.

Benefits

Employees of the VA enjoy robust federal benefits, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.
Generous paid annual and sick leave.
Professional growth through continuing education credits.

Application Tips

To stand out, ensure your resume is explicit about your clinical background. Follow the formatting guidelines strictly, especially when uploading the required clinical resume document. Do not leave gaps in your work history description, as specific examples of your clinical reasoning are highly valued by hiring managers.

Serving our Veterans as an Occupational Therapist in Grand Island is a rewarding career path. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application and join us in our mission of providing whole health care to those who sacrificed for our freedom.

Why This Occupational Therapist - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country while advancing your career in the heartland of Nebraska.

Occupational Therapist - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to join our team in Grand Island, Nebraska. This role offers the opportunity to provide high-quality, comprehensive clinical care to veterans in both inpatient and outpatient settings. You will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to develop intervention plans that restore function and improve the quality of life for our nation's heroes. Highly qualified candidates may be eligible for recruitment or relocation incentives.

Requirements for Occupational Therapist - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
Must possess a current, full, active, and unrestricted state license to practice occupational therapy.
Must hold a current NBCOT certification.
Must be a graduate of an ACOTE-approved occupational therapy program.
Ability to undergo a background and security investigation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.

Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized

Experience within a Community Living Center or Skilled Nursing Facility environment.
Strong background in outpatient occupational therapy clinical practice.
Proficiency in wheelchair seating and mobility assessment.
Proven ability to manage complex patient caseloads independently.
Demonstrated skill in orthotic fabrication and adaptive equipment modification.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and pay advancement potential
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
✓Paid time off and federal holidays
✓Continuing education and professional development support
✓Recruitment and relocation incentives for eligible candidates

💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Occupational Therapist - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized Job

Log in or create an account on the USAJobs portal.
Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
Upload your resume, transcripts, and relevant licensing/certification documents.
Complete the occupational questionnaire within the application portal.
Submit your full application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your experience in a way that matches the KSAs listed in the job announcement.
The VA may not make assumptions about your experience; be specific and explicit about your duties.
Use the provided clinical resume template to ensure your application meets formatting expectations.
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests regarding your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary range is $61,722 to $116,362 per year, determined by your specific qualifications and grade level (GS-9 through GS-12).

Are relocation incentives available?

Yes, relocation or recruitment incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates at the discretion of the agency.

Is this a remote or telework position?

No, this is an on-site position based in Grand Island, Nebraska.

Is a trial period required?

*A: Yes, as a condition of employment, new hires will serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to ensure fitness for the role.*

Can I apply if I am a graduate OT?

*A: Yes, graduates may be hired on a temporary appointment for up to two years while awaiting certification or licensure.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working for the VA means becoming part of a community-focused team. Grand Island, Nebraska, offers an incredible work-life balance, low cost of living, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal location for healthcare professionals to build a long-term career.