Become an Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist) at the VA

Are you a seasoned Occupational Therapist looking to leverage your clinical expertise to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation’s veterans? The VA Northern California Health Care System (VANCHCS) is currently seeking a highly skilled Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist) to join our Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation team in Martinez, California.

Job Responsibilities

As a Clinical Specialist, you will operate at the GS-13 level, serving as a subject-matter expert. Key responsibilities include:

Specialized Care: Providing expert assessment and intervention for veterans with diverse neurological and physical diagnoses.
Clinical Consultation: Serving as a primary consultant for medical center staff regarding complex rehabilitation.
Protocol Development: Creating and updating evidence-based policies and procedures for the rehabilitation department.
Mentorship: guiding and supporting staff therapists in contemporary occupational therapy practices.

Requirements

To qualify for this GS-13 role, candidates must meet rigorous standards, including:

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Education	Masters Degree or higher in Occupational Therapy
Licensure	Current, unrestricted state license
Certification	Active NBCOT certification
Experience	1 year equivalent to GS-12 plus 2,000 hours of clinical practice

Salary Overview and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $133,060 to $172,980 per year. In addition to salary, employees may be eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement. Other federal benefits include comprehensive health coverage and structured leave accrual.

How to Apply

Visit USAJOBS to create your profile.
Download the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
Complete the mandatory questionnaire.
Upload all supporting documentation by the closing date of September 16, 2026.

This role is an ideal step for an experienced clinician looking for a rewarding, high-level career within the federal sector. If you possess the clinical expertise and the passion for veteran care, apply today to start your journey with the VHA.

Why This Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist) Job Matters

Advance your career as an Occupational Therapist Clinical Specialist with the VA Northern California Health Care System and shape the future of veteran rehabilitative care.

Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist) Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking an experienced Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist) to join our team in Martinez, California. This role serves as a subject-matter expert within the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service, focusing on complex physical rehabilitation cases. You will provide specialized assessments, develop evidence-based treatment programs, and act as a consultant to medical staff, while mentoring fellow clinicians to improve overall patient care outcomes.

Requirements for Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist)

United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may be appointed only if qualified citizens are not available.
English Proficiency: Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
Educational Degree: Bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy plus two years of experience, or a Master’s degree or higher in occupational therapy from an accredited program.
Certification: Current National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification.
Licensure: Full, current, and unrestricted state license to practice occupational therapy.
Background Investigation: Subject to successful security and suitability vetting.
Mandatory Vaccination: Compliance with the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.

Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist)

At least 2,000 hours of clinical practice in the advanced practice area within the past five years.
Current certification in a specialty area recognized by the AOTA.
Completion of a formal fellowship, residency, or advanced degree program in physical rehabilitation.
Proven track record of developing evidence-based protocols and clinical procedures.
Experience providing clinical mentorship to other licensed therapy staff.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility for qualified student loan reimbursement up to $200,000.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance packages.
✓Competitive salary and federal pay grade structure.
✓Accrual of annual and sick leave based on federal service years.
✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
✓Stable federal career path within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Occupational Therapist (Clinical Specialist) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a detailed resume ensuring it highlights your clinical expertise and specific accomplishments.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Download and upload the standard Clinical Resume Document as instructed.
Upload required documentation, including licenses, certifications, and transcripts.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline on September 16, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be as specific as possible in your resume regarding your clinical hours and duties.
Ensure your state license and NBCOT certification are active and unrestricted.
Verify all uploaded documents are clearly legible.
Double-check your email notifications for confirmation after submitting your package.
Clearly highlight your experience with physical rehabilitation to align with the GS-13 grade level requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?

Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP. You must submit your application for this program within four months of your appointment.

What is the physical demand level for this position?

The role is classified as 'Medium' physical demand, involving frequent standing, walking, and occasional lifting of 20-50 lbs.

Can I apply if I have a foreign degree?

Yes, provided your education is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and you provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency.

Is there flexibility for remote work?

*A: No, this position is onsite in Martinez, California.*

What is the trial period?

*A: Selected candidates will serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate fitness for the role.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working with the Veterans Health Administration means joining a mission-driven organization that values compassion, clinical excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration.