Transforming Lives: Physical Therapy Careers at the VA Augusta Health Care System

Are you a dedicated physical therapist looking to merge your clinical expertise with a meaningful mission? The Charlie Norwood VAMC in Augusta, Georgia, is currently seeking a passionate professional to join the Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) service line. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide specialized, high-impact care to Veterans, helping them regain independence and improve their functional outcomes. If you are ready to serve those who have served our nation, this position offers both professional challenge and personal fulfillment.

Job Responsibilities

As a physical therapist at the Augusta VA, you will be on the front lines of patient rehabilitation. Your daily duties will include:

Comprehensive Evaluations: Performing in-depth assessments of Veterans with complex medical histories, focusing on musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular impairments.
Treatment Implementation: Developing and modifying personalized treatment plans that evolve with the patient's recovery process.
Clinical Decision Making: Working in a direct-access environment to identify diagnoses and set functional goals.
Mentorship and Oversight: Providing clinical guidance to Physical Therapy Assistants and students during their clinical rotations.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:

Requirement Type	Specification
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Licensure	Full, current, and unrestricted license in any U.S. state or territory
Education	Degree from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program
Language	Proficient in written and spoken English
Background	Must successfully pass a security and fitness investigation

Salary Overview

This position is categorized under the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with a salary range between $83,571 and $119,633 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides substantial benefits, including:

Accrual of annual and sick leave.
Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings options.
Professional development and internal career mobility.
Stability and the prestige of serving within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Application Tips

Use the Standard Resume: Ensure you download and use the official Clinical Resume document provided by the VA career portal.
Be Detailed: Clearly describe your experience with specific patient populations, particularly those with spinal cord injuries.
Proof of Credentials: Ensure all licenses and transcripts are up-to-date and clearly legible when uploaded.

Joining the Charlie Norwood VAMC as a Physical Therapist is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of America's Veterans. With a supportive team, competitive salary, and the chance to specialize in spinal cord injury care, this is an ideal role for a clinician looking to make a real difference. Apply today to start your career with the VHA.

Why This Physical Therapist Job Matters

Make a lasting impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the Veterans Health Administration as a Physical Therapist in Augusta, Georgia.

Physical Therapist Job Overview

The Charlie Norwood VAMC is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapist to join the SCI Service line, focusing on the rehabilitation and care of Veterans with spinal cord injuries. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in assessing, planning, and implementing patient-centered care to improve functional outcomes, independence, and overall quality of life for our Veterans.

Requirements for Physical Therapist

U.S. Citizenship
Full, current, and unrestricted state license to practice physical therapy
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Graduate of a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program
Background and security investigation clearance
Completion of mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapist

Demonstrated ability to perform independent clinical evaluations and decision-making in a Direct Access environment
Strong proficiency in designing treatment plans for patients with complex musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions
Experience overseeing Physical Therapy Assistants and students in clinical settings
Ability to integrate patient preferences into clinically appropriate treatment goals

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal leave accrual based on total years of service
✓Exceptional health and wellness programs
✓Opportunities for professional growth within the VA system
✓Stable work environment supporting public service
✓Access to VA career advancement and training resources

💡 How to Apply Physical Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Therapist Job

Prepare your resume and ensure you have a copy of your current, unrestricted PT license.
Download the standard Clinical Resume document from the provided VA career site.
Log in to your USAJOBS account and search for the specific job announcement.
Complete the occupational questionnaire in full.
Upload your required documents, including your license, transcript, and the standard resume.
Submit your application package before the closing date of September 14, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and detailed in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your past tasks.
Clearly outline your clinical experience with spinal cord injuries or complex care.
Ensure all documentation is uploaded in the correct sections to avoid disqualification.
Double-check that your state-issued identification is REAL ID compliant.
Verify that your education is from a CAPTE-accredited institution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this physical therapy position?

This position is centered on the spinal cord injury (SCI) service line, focusing on the prevention, management, and rehabilitation of acute and chronic spinal cord injuries.

Can I apply if I have a foreign degree?

Yes, but you must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency along with your transcripts to confirm that your education meets U.S. standards.

Is this a remote or telework position?

No, this is a site-based position requiring physical presence in Augusta, Georgia.

What is the trial period for new hires?

You will be required to complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate your fitness for federal service.

Is there flexibility in the schedule?

The position requires 24 hours per week with a flexible schedule that includes Saturday shifts.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served, along with their families and survivors. At the Augusta VA Health Care System, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, evidence-based, and whole-health care in an environment that respects the sacrifice and service of our Veterans.