Advance Your Career as a Physical Therapist with the VA
Are you a skilled Physical Therapist looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring for a dedicated Physical Therapist at the VA Connecticut Healthcare System in West Haven. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide high-quality care to our nation’s Veterans while working within a supportive and mission-driven environment.
About the Veterans Health Administration
The VA is the largest and most technologically advanced integrated healthcare system in the United States. Driven by our "I CARE" values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—we strive to provide comprehensive whole-health care to those who have served. Choosing a career with the VA means joining a team dedicated to honoring the men and women who have sacrificed for our country.
Job Responsibilities
The Physical Therapist in this role acts as an autonomous clinician. You will be responsible for:
- Conducting comprehensive examinations and evaluations of patients.
- Developing and implementing evidence-based physical therapy plans of care.
- Making clinical decisions in a Direct Access environment.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure holistic treatment.
- Providing clinical oversight to Physical Therapy Assistants and students.
- Maintaining accurate patient records in accordance with The Joint Commission and VA standards.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-12 position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Licensure | Current, unrestricted PT license in the U.S. |
| Education | Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate in Physical Therapy |
| Experience | Varies by degree; 5 years (Bachelor's), 2 years (Master's), or 0 years (Doctorate) |
| Language | Proficient in written and spoken English |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $105,481 to $137,128 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Beyond the base pay, the VA offers a competitive benefits package including:
- Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Federal retirement benefits.
- Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Predictable work-life balance with standard daytime hours.
Application Tips
The federal hiring process can be detailed. Ensure you use the specific clinical resume document provided by the VA and submit your application via the official USAJOBS portal. Be clear in your descriptions of previous experience, as the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your skills.
If you are a passionate Physical Therapist looking to advance your career, this position at the West Haven VA provides the resources and the mission to help you succeed. Apply by September 8, 2026, to be considered for this rewarding role.
Why This Physical Therapist Job Matters
Advance your physical therapy career in a patient-centered environment where your clinical autonomy directly impacts the lives of those who served our nation.
Physical Therapist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapist to join the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation service at the VA Connecticut Healthcare System in West Haven. In this role, you will provide comprehensive, autonomous care to a diverse Veteran population, managing specialized treatment plans and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to optimize functional independence.
Requirements for Physical Therapist
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if no qualified citizens are available).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- A full, current, and unrestricted state license to practice physical therapy.
- A bachelor's degree in PT with five years of experience, a master's degree in PT with two years of experience, or a doctorate in PT.
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapist
- Three or more years of experience in inpatient physical therapy settings.
- Proven ability to manage autonomous clinical decisions in a Direct Access environment.
- Experience in providing clinical oversight to physical therapy assistants and students.
- Strong skills in musculoskeletal and neuromuscular assessment and intervention.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Generous paid time off and leave accrual
- âś“Flexible scheduling options
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance packages
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System
- âś“Opportunities for professional leadership growth
- âś“Access to the nation's largest integrated healthcare system
đź’ˇ How to Apply Physical Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Therapist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your required documents, including your license, resume, and transcripts.
- Download and complete the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 8, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Use the specific VA-provided clinical resume template to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Be specific and thorough when describing your professional experience to ensure full credit.
- Ensure your license documentation is current and clearly visible.
- Check your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
- Ensure you have digital copies of all required documents (SF-50, DD-214, etc.) ready before starting the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
This is an on-site, full-time position located in West Haven, CT. It is not a virtual or remote position.
Can I qualify with a foreign degree?
Yes, but you must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcripts to receive credit for foreign education.
What is the trial period requirement?
New hires are required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which their fitness, performance, and suitability for continued federal service are evaluated.