Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist at the Battle Creek VA
Are you a dedicated clinical professional looking to make a lasting impact? The Battle Creek VA Medical Center is inviting qualified psychologists to join our inpatient mental health team. This role offers not only a competitive salary and robust federal benefits but also the unique opportunity to participate in the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Job Responsibilities
In this position, you will function as a key member of our multidisciplinary treatment team. Key duties include:
- Psychological Assessment: Conducting in-depth interviews and testing to aid in diagnosis.
- Treatment Planning: Developing and implementing effective therapy modalities for mental health and comorbid medical conditions.
- Consultation: Advising other clinical staff on psychological evaluations.
- Research and Education: Opportunity to engage in clinical research and provide supervision to postdoctoral residents and psychology interns.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must:
- Hold a doctoral degree in psychology (APA/CPA accredited).
- Possess a full, unrestricted license to practice.
- Successfully complete an accredited internship program.
- Pass all pre-employment background and drug screening requirements.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade | Experience Required |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry Level (Basic requirements met) |
| GS-12 | 1+ year of professional experience |
| GS-13 | 2+ years of professional experience |
Benefits and Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $85,619 to $158,642 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides comprehensive federal benefits, including:
- Student loan reimbursement via EDRP (up to $200,000).
- Recruitment and relocation incentives for highly qualified individuals.
- Federal health insurance and retirement packages.
- Generous paid annual leave.
Application Tips
Ensure your application package is complete. Use the mandatory VA clinical resume template to avoid disqualification. Clearly define your work history, including volunteer or specialized clinical training, and always attach your independent license if applying for the GS-13 level.
Serving the Veterans of Michigan is a profound responsibility and a rewarding career path. If you are a licensed psychologist seeking to combine clinical excellence with a mission-driven environment, we encourage you to apply through the USAJobs portal today.
Why This Staff Psychologist (Sign On Bonus And Education Debt Repayment) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served. The Battle Creek VA Medical Center is hiring mission-driven Psychologists for a rewarding clinical role with sign-on incentives and student loan repayment options.
Staff Psychologist (Sign On Bonus And Education Debt Repayment) Job Overview
The Battle Creek VA Medical Center is seeking two dedicated Psychologists to join our inpatient mental health units. As a hub for mental health care in Michigan’s lower peninsula, our facility provides comprehensive, evidence-based care to over 42,000 Veterans. This clinical position focuses on diagnosing, assessing, and treating a diverse range of mental health and medical conditions, working alongside a multidisciplinary team dedicated to the 'Whole Health' philosophy.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist (Sign On Bonus And Education Debt Repayment)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be hired only if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA or CPA accredited program.
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by the APA or CPA.
- Hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Ability to complete a successful background/security investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist (Sign On Bonus And Education Debt Repayment)
- Demonstrated experience in inpatient mental health settings.
- Strong proficiency in behavioral health techniques for pain management, smoking cessation, and chronic illness support.
- Advanced ability to design and implement psychological treatment strategies for diverse patient populations.
- Experience in clinical research execution and consultation.
- Proven ability to provide clinical supervision to psychology students and residents.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 in loan reimbursement).
- ✓Recruitment and relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Generous annual leave accrual based on federal service years.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and research participation.
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist (Sign On Bonus And Education Debt Repayment) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist (Sign On Bonus And Education Debt Repayment) Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS if you have not already done so.
- Download the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA careers link.
- Prepare your full CV and supporting documentation, including your license and transcripts.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USAJobs application portal.
- Submit your complete application package, including the specific clinical resume template, before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your experience; the hiring team cannot make assumptions.
- Include your independent practice license; failure to do so will result in an ineligible status for the GS-13 level.
- Use the mandatory VA clinical resume template to avoid processing delays.
- Double-check your submission for all required documents like transcripts and SF-50 forms.
- Verify your eligibility requirements before applying, as specific timelines apply for EDRP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for remote or telework?
No, due to the nature of the inpatient clinical responsibilities, this position requires on-site attendance at the Battle Creek facility.
What is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP)?
The EDRP is a student loan reimbursement program offering up to $200,000 in assistance. You must apply within four months of your appointment to be considered.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
Candidates who meet all other requirements but lack a license may be considered for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment under supervision for up to two years.
Are there remote work options?
No, this role requires on-site clinical presence at the Battle Creek medical facility.
What is the trial period?
New appointees must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate fitness and performance.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to those who have served in our nation’s military. The Battle Creek VAMC stands as a cornerstone of mental health care in the southwestern lower peninsula of Michigan. With over 276 operating beds and a focus on recovery-oriented care, we empower Veterans to achieve their best health.