Advance Your Career: Clinical Specialist Physical Therapist (Dry Needling) at the VA
Are you a dedicated physical therapist looking to make a profound impact on the health and recovery of our nation’s Veterans? The Hampton VA Medical Center is currently recruiting for a Clinical Specialist (Dry Needling) to join their Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service (PM&RS). This is a unique opportunity to work within a Complexity Level 1C facility, providing high-level, specialized orthopedic care.
About the Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is rooted in President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining our team, you become part of a network that prioritizes whole-health, evidence-based practices, and patient-centered rehabilitation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Specialist, you will act as a subject matter expert in orthopedic manual therapy and dry needling. Your daily duties will include:
- Patient Care: Conducting expert neuro-musculoskeletal evaluations and administering specialized treatment modalities.
- Mentorship: Teaching and orienting new staff members on hands-on manual therapy techniques, including cupping and taping.
- Collaborative Care: Serving as a vital member of the Interdisciplinary Pain Management Team.
- Consultation: Providing expert recommendations to other health care providers to optimize patient outcomes.
- Quality Improvement: Assisting in the development of treatment programs and participating in data collection for clinical research.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Education Level | Experience Required | Specialization Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 5 Years | Accredited PT Program |
| Master's Degree | 2 Years | Accredited PT Program |
| Doctorate Degree | N/A | Accredited PT Program |
Requirements and Professional Standards
To be considered for this position, applicants must hold a full, current, and unrestricted state license to practice physical therapy. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in English and meet the specific criteria for the GS-13 grade level, which includes at least 2,000 hours of specialized clinical practice or board certification (ABPTS) in the area of focus.
Salary Overview and Benefits
This position offers a highly competitive salary range of $142,298 to $184,989 per year. Beyond the base salary, VHA employees enjoy a robust benefits package, which includes:
- Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
- A secure retirement system featuring the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
Application Tips
When applying, ensure your resume clearly outlines your clinical hours. Use descriptive language to explain your experience with dry needling and orthopedic care, as the hiring committee cannot assume prior knowledge of your specific clinical capabilities. Ensure all documents—especially your licensure and transcripts—are current and easily legible.
If you are a clinical leader ready to use your expertise to serve those who have sacrificed for our country, the Physical Therapist Clinical Specialist position at the Hampton VA Medical Center is the perfect next step. Apply today to contribute to a legacy of excellence in Veterans' healthcare.
Why This Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist - Dry Needling) Job Matters
Elevate your career as a Clinical Specialist Physical Therapist at the Hampton VA Medical Center, where your expertise in dry needling directly impacts the quality of life for our nation's heroes.
Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist - Dry Needling) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a highly skilled Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist - Dry Needling) to join the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service (PM&RS) team at the Hampton VA Medical Center in Virginia. This role is ideal for a dedicated clinician who wants to blend advanced orthopedic intervention with compassionate care in a Complexity Level 1C facility, helping Veterans manage chronic and acute pain through specialized hands-on therapy.
Requirements for Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist - Dry Needling)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, unrestricted state license to practice physical therapy
- Graduate of a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist - Dry Needling)
- Minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in dry needling/specialty area within the past two to five years
- Board Certification in the specialty area recognized by the ABPTS
- Completion of a formal fellowship program
- Advanced degree in a related rehabilitation field
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive Federal Salary
- âś“Comprehensive Health Insurance options
- âś“Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- âś“Paid vacation and sick leave
- âś“Federal employee life insurance programs
- âś“Flexible spending accounts
đź’ˇ How to Apply Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist - Dry Needling) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Therapist (Clinical Specialist - Dry Needling) Job
- Prepare a detailed long-form resume or CV that highlights your clinical experience and specialty certifications.
- Log in or create a profile on USAJobs.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all required documentation, including your physical therapy license, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of October 9, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific about your clinical hours and duties; the agency cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your license is active and clearly documented.
- Verify that your transcript confirms graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this role?
This position specializes in neuro-musculoskeletal evaluations and advanced manual therapy techniques, specifically dry needling, for Veterans suffering from chronic or acute pain.
Is this a remote or telework-eligible position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Hampton VA Medical Center in Hampton, Virginia.
Is there a trial period for this job?
*A: Yes, all new appointees to the Federal service are required to complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.*
What is the physical requirement for this role?
*A: This position involves patient treatment requiring heavy lifting (45 lbs and over), walking, standing, and high-level dexterity.*