Advance Your Career as an Inpatient Occupational Therapist with the VA
Are you a dedicated Occupational Therapist looking to make a profound difference? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Inpatient Occupational Therapist to join our team in Martinez, California. This role offers not just a competitive salary and robust benefits, but the rare chance to provide world-class, whole-health care to our nation’s Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As an Inpatient Occupational Therapist, your duties are vital to patient recovery and independence. Responsibilities include:
- Evaluations: Conduct detailed assessments using standardized testing and clinical observation to determine patient functional needs.
- Intervention: Develop evidence-based treatment plans that address cognitive, physical, and psychosocial deficits.
- Care Planning: Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure seamless patient transitions and successful discharge planning.
- Equipment: Fabricate and modify orthotics, splints, and adaptive equipment to assist patients with daily living activities.
- Education: Provide clinical training to interns and staff to improve overall department outcomes.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Licensure | Current, full, active, and unrestricted state license |
| Certification | Current NBCOT certification |
| Education | Degree in OT from an accredited ACOTE program |
| Experience | At least one year of GS-11 equivalent experience |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this GS-12 position ranges from $111,896 to $145,468 annually. Beyond the salary, the VA offers an extensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement savings, and paid time off. A significant highlight of this role is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for eligible participants.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of selection, be sure to provide a detailed, accurate resume that highlights your specific clinical skills. The VA does not make assumptions about your experience, so clearly link your past accomplishments to the duties listed in the announcement. Be sure to use the official VA clinical resume format provided in the application link to avoid technical disqualification.
Serving those who have served us is more than just a job; it is a calling. If you are an Occupational Therapist ready to take on a new challenge in a supportive, professional, and impact-driven environment, we encourage you to apply to the Veterans Health Administration today.
Why This Occupational Therapist- Inpatient Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country while advancing your career as an Inpatient Occupational Therapist at the VA Northern California Health Care System.
Occupational Therapist- Inpatient Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to join our inpatient care team in Martinez, California. This role offers an opportunity to provide high-quality, whole-health rehabilitative services to Veterans. You will play a critical role in evaluating patient needs, developing evidence-based intervention plans, and collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to improve the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functioning of our nation's heroes. This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan repayment assistance.
Requirements for Occupational Therapist- Inpatient
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted state licensure to practice Occupational Therapy
- Current National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification
- Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level
- Ability to perform 'medium' physical work (lifting 20-50 lbs)
- Subject to background investigation and pre-employment health screenings
Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist- Inpatient
- Experience in an inpatient or acute hospital setting
- Proven ability to adapt treatment plans for complex, multi-faceted patient needs
- Strong communication skills for multidisciplinary team collaboration
- Clinical experience with orthotics, splinting, and adaptive equipment fabrication
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave accrual
- ✓Professional development and clinical training opportunities
- ✓Stable work-life balance with a consistent Monday-Friday schedule
💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist- Inpatient Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Occupational Therapist- Inpatient Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard clinical resume document provided by the VA.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, professional license, NBCOT certification, and transcripts.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of September 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your prior experience.
- Ensure all documentation, including license verification and transcripts, is uploaded correctly.
- Use the provided VA resume template to ensure your application meets the specific format requirements.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may offer up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualifying candidates.
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time position with a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing comprehensive care ranging from medical and surgical to rehabilitative and mental health services, the VHA is committed to fulfilling the promise of caring for those who have served. By joining the VA Northern California Health Care System (VANCHCS), you become part of a mission-driven organization that values clinical excellence and patient advocacy.