Lead Patient Safety: Physical Therapist Program Manager at Sheridan VA

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class care to those who have served our nation. We are currently seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Physical Therapist to join the Sheridan Health Care System as a Safe Patient Handling Program (SPHM) Manager. This leadership position is designed for an experienced professional ready to combine their clinical expertise with program management to improve safety standards for both staff and Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As the SPHM Program Manager, you will serve as the primary authority on patient handling safety. Your core duties will include:

Compliance and Oversight: Monitoring adherence to VHA Directive 1611 and implementing corrective actions where necessary.
Ergonomic Expertise: Leading facility-wide ergonomic assessments to identify hazards.
Program Development: Designing educational initiatives and training for staff, including the coordination of SPHM peer leaders.
Collaboration: Working across all medical services to ensure that safe patient handling equipment is correctly acquired and utilized.
Leadership: Representing the program to facility leadership and participating in regional and national VHA meetings.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-13 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Qualification Area	Requirement Details
Licensure	Unrestricted license to practice PT in a U.S. jurisdiction
Education	Graduate of a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program
Experience	Minimum of 1 year equivalent to GS-12 level experience
Citizenship	U.S. Citizen

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $138,370 per year. In addition to a robust salary, the VA offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Extensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
Retirement benefits through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Accrual of vacation (annual) and sick leave.
Opportunities for professional growth and clinical research.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of selection, please follow these instructions closely:

Use the Required Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume Document. Be sure to use this for the primary 'Resume' upload.
Detail Your Experience: Clearly outline your program management accomplishments. Focus on metrics, such as how your leadership improved safety or training outcomes.
Submit Early: Don't wait until the closing date of September 8, 2026, to avoid potential technical issues.

If you are a physical therapist with a passion for safety, leadership, and serving our Veterans, this role at the Sheridan VA offers a unique chance to shape organizational culture. Apply today to begin your journey with one of the most respected healthcare systems in the country.

Why This Physical Therapist - Safe Patient Handling Program Manager Job Matters

Elevate patient safety standards and lead specialized clinical programs for our nation's Veterans at the scenic Sheridan VA Medical Center.

Physical Therapist - Safe Patient Handling Program Manager Job Overview

The Sheridan Health Care System is seeking a dedicated and experienced Physical Therapist to serve as the Safe Patient Handling Program (SPHM) Manager. This leadership role is pivotal in ensuring the safety and mobility of our Veterans by managing and overseeing all aspects of the SPHM program across the medical facility. You will be responsible for program compliance, staff training, ergonomic assessments, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to create a culture of safety and excellence.

Requirements for Physical Therapist - Safe Patient Handling Program Manager

U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment conditions are met).
Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice Physical Therapy in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
Degree from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program.
English language proficiency (written and spoken).
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Completion of a background and security investigation.
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Successful completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapist - Safe Patient Handling Program Manager

Two years of specialized program management experience.
Proven track record in developing clinical educational programs.
Experience in ergonomic assessments and patient safety protocols.
Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage compliance reporting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Federal retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
✓Work-life balance in the historic, scenic Sheridan, WY area.
✓Support for Veterans and transitioning service members.

💡 How to Apply Physical Therapist - Safe Patient Handling Program Manager Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Therapist - Safe Patient Handling Program Manager Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Download and complete the mandatory Clinical Resume Document from the provided link.
Upload your resume, license, transcripts, and any applicable SF-50 documentation.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your application package before the closing date of September 8, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and thorough when describing your experience in your resume; do not leave room for assumptions.
Ensure your responses in the online questionnaire match your provided documentation.
Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to ensure compliance with the application format.
Monitor your email for status updates, including referral notifications and interview requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this role?

The focus is managing the Safe Patient Handling Program (SPHM), which involves ensuring facility-wide safety, monitoring compliance with VHA directives, and training staff on equipment and mobilization techniques.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an onsite position located in Sheridan, Wyoming, and is not eligible for telework.

What level of education is required?

You must hold a degree from a CAPTE-accredited college or university. Depending on the year of graduation and degree type, you must also have the required years of independent experience as a physical therapist.

What is the work schedule?

The schedule is generally Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, though some evening hours may be required for training purposes.

Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?

Yes, this position is open to various hiring paths. Review the announcement for details regarding your specific eligibility.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Sheridan VA Medical Center, located on the historic grounds of Fort Mackenzie, is a 200-bed facility that offers high-quality acute and chronic care services. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Wyoming mountains, Sheridan provides an exceptional quality of life. By joining our team, you become part of a mission-driven organization that values innovation, evidence-based practice, and compassionate service.