Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the Fargo VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Fargo VA Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Staff Psychologist. This role offers the opportunity to work within a highly-rated facility while enjoying the benefits of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, you will operate within a 'Whole Health' model, focusing on the veteran as a whole person rather than just their symptoms. Key duties include:
- Conducting diagnostic assessments and cognitive evaluations.
- Providing evidence-based individual and group psychotherapy.
- Collaborating on multidisciplinary treatment plans.
- Providing crisis intervention and management.
- Offering consultation to clinical staff and supervising psychology trainees.
Comparison: Standard vs. Federal Psychology Practice
| Feature | Standard Clinical Practice | VA Staff Psychologist |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Practice | Often limited to private settings | Integrated, whole-person care |
| Benefits | Varies by employer | Federal, comprehensive pension/insurance |
| Loan Repayment | Rare | EDRP (up to $200k) available |
| Clinical Support | Independent | Multidisciplinary team environment |
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent educational and professional standards, including a doctoral degree from an accredited program and completion of an accredited internship. You must hold an unrestricted license or be eligible to practice under supervision for a temporary period. Proficiency in English and U.S. Citizenship are mandatory.
Salary and Benefits
Salary for this position ranges from $83,814 to $155,296 per year. Beyond the salary, you will receive:
- Paid Time Off: Between 37 and 50 days annually.
- Insurance: Federal health, vision, and dental programs.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401K options.
- EDRP: Potential for significant student loan debt reduction.
Application Tips
When applying for a federal position, clarity is key. Do not leave room for assumptions. Your resume should highlight specific achievements. If you have volunteer experience, include it. We strongly recommend creating a separate document that specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the job requirements.
Joining the Fargo VA means joining a team dedicated to excellence. With high patient satisfaction ratings and a focus on professional development, this is an excellent opportunity for any psychologist aiming to grow their career while supporting those who have served our country.
Why This Staff Psychologist Job Matters
Join a 5-Star rated healthcare team in Fargo, ND, and provide life-changing mental health support to those who served our nation.
Staff Psychologist Job Overview
The Fargo VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our multidisciplinary team. As a vital member of our Whole Health System, you will provide comprehensive mental health services, including diagnostics, evidence-based therapy, and patient-centered treatment planning. This role is ideal for a clinician committed to compassionate care and innovation within a top-tier medical environment serving over 36,000 Veterans.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist
- Demonstrated expertise in psychological assessment and diagnosis
- Experience in designing and implementing evidence-based treatment strategies
- Ability to provide clinical consultation and supervision for trainees
- Strong communication skills for interdisciplinary collaboration
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal Pension Plan and 401K with up to 5% employer match
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓37-50 days of combined annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and required documentation.
- Prepare your long-form resume and official transcripts.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all required documents by the deadline.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Write explicitly to each Knowledge, Skill, and Ability (KSA) requirement on a separate document.
- Ensure your resume clearly reflects your experience as it relates to the specific duties mentioned.
- Do not make assumptions; if you performed a task, include it in your description.
- Ensure all transcripts are official and clearly labeled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which may provide student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualifying candidates.
What is the work schedule?
The schedule is a standard Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. format.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
Yes, non-licensed applicants may be appointed as a 'graduate psychologist' for up to two years, provided they are supervised by a licensed psychologist and work toward full licensure.
What is the trial period?
New federal employees must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.
Can I telework?
Yes, this position offers ad-hoc telework opportunities, though it is not a fully remote position.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. The Fargo VA is recognized for excellence, holding a 5-star CMS rating and being ranked #1 in patient experience among Level 2 VHA Hospitals. We provide comprehensive care to over 36,000 Veterans across North Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota, and maintain strong affiliations with the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences.