Advance Your Medical Career: Otolaryngologist Opportunities at the VA
The Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) is actively recruiting a skilled Physician specializing in Otolaryngology (ENT Surgeon) to provide high-quality care to those who have served our country. This position represents more than just a job; it is an invitation to work within a unique, collaborative, and mission-driven healthcare system in North Chicago, Illinois. If you are a board-eligible or board-certified surgeon looking to make a measurable impact on patient lives while benefiting from federal career stability, this is your opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As an ENT Surgeon within our Surgical Service, your primary duties will involve the comprehensive management of head and neck conditions. Key responsibilities include:
- Clinical Care: Evaluating, diagnosing, and treating disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and facial skeleton.
- Surgical Excellence: Performing both non-operative and operative procedures within the scope of a Level 1C facility.
- Mentorship: Educating and training medical students, residents, and technicians to build the next generation of healthcare providers.
- Collaboration: Engaging with interdisciplinary teams to ensure continuity of care and participating in surgical staff briefings.
Skills and Expectations Comparison
| Requirement Type | Focus Area | Essential Expectation |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical | Otolaryngology | Board eligibility in ENT surgery |
| Technical | Advanced Surgery | Proficiency with Da Vinci Robotic systems |
| Administrative | Documentation | Familiarity with Oracle/CERNER records |
| Soft Skills | Mentorship | Ability to teach residents/medical students |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must hold a valid degree in medicine (MD or DO) and possess a full, unrestricted medical license in any U.S. state. Residency training in Otolaryngology is mandatory, and you must satisfy federal requirements for citizenship and English proficiency. Applicants are subject to pre-employment health screenings and drug testing.
Salary and Benefits
We offer a competitive compensation package designed to attract top-tier medical talent. The salary range for this position is between $250,000 and $400,000 per year, commensurate with experience and performance. Furthermore, we provide a robust benefits suite:
- Financial Support: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) with up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
- Time Off: Over 50 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday leave.
- Retirement: Dual-tier retirement system including a federal pension and a 401(k)-style plan with agency matching.
- Professional Protection: Free malpractice insurance, including tail coverage.
Application Tips
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly list your surgical volume and residency details in your CV.
- Include Research & Teaching: Emphasize any experience with academic instruction.
- Meet Deadlines: Submit your package via USAJOBS well before the November 2026 cutoff to avoid technical issues.
Serving as an Otolaryngologist at the VA means joining a team dedicated to excellence. With high earning potential, student loan support, and a supportive environment, this role provides the stability and professional satisfaction you deserve. Apply today to help us continue providing the best care possible to our nation's heroes.
Why This Physician - Otolaryngologist (Ent Surgeon) Job Matters
Transform lives as an Otolaryngologist at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, where cutting-edge clinical practice meets a mission of service to our nation's heroes.
Physician - Otolaryngologist (Ent Surgeon) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Physician (Otolaryngologist) to join the surgical team at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, Illinois. This role offers the opportunity to provide comprehensive ENT care—ranging from diagnosis to surgical intervention—for a diverse patient population, including active-duty service members and Veterans. Work in a collaborative, well-resourced medical environment that values evidence-based practice, mentorship, and professional growth.
Requirements for Physician - Otolaryngologist (Ent Surgeon)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA accredited residency in Otolaryngology.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary clinical privileges and credentials.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Otolaryngologist (Ent Surgeon)
- Board certification in Otolaryngology.
- Experience with Da Vinci Robotic Surgery systems.
- Proficiency in Oracle/CERNER electronic health record platforms.
- Completion of formal fellowship or subspecialty training.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonuses.
- ✓50-55 days of total paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal pension and 401K-style retirement plan with 5% matching.
- ✓Malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓CME reimbursement of $1,000 annually.
💡 How to Apply Physician - Otolaryngologist (Ent Surgeon) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Otolaryngologist (Ent Surgeon) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and CV highlighting your clinical training and experience.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online portal.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on November 30, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests regarding documentation.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly illustrates your residency training and subspecialty experience.
- Address all listed preferred qualifications to stand out during the evaluation process.
- Have your medical license and board certification documentation ready for the credentialing phase.
- If you are a Veteran, ensure your DD214 is uploaded to claim your hiring preference.
- Double-check that all contact information is current to ensure timely communication from the hiring team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this position?
Yes, this role is eligible for the EDRP, which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program approval and eligibility.
What is the work-life balance like at the FHCC?
The position features a standard, full-time Monday-Friday schedule (7:30 AM to 4:00 PM) with additional on-call requirements as dictated by VHA policy.
Are there opportunities for teaching within this role?
Yes, physicians at the center are expected to educate and mentor medical students, interns, and residents as part of their daily responsibilities.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) operates the largest integrated health care system in the United States. At the FHCC in North Chicago, our mission is to provide world-class medical and dental services to a dual population of active-duty military personnel, their recruits, and the Veteran community. We pride ourselves on a culture of whole health care that honors the sacrifices of our patients.