Providing Excellence in Mental Healthcare: Psychiatrist Opportunities at the VA
The Fayetteville VA Coastal Healthcare System is currently seeking a highly motivated and compassionate Psychiatrist to join its medical team. If you are a medical professional committed to excellence and dedicated to serving the men and women who have defended our nation, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact.
Job Responsibilities
The selected Psychiatrist will be based at the Wilmington Health Care Center. Primary responsibilities include:
- Performing initial psychiatric evaluations for veterans.
- Developing and managing comprehensive treatment and medication plans.
- Maintaining diagnostic records using the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS).
- Providing psychiatric consultation to other specialty services within the VA.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: MD or DO degree from an accredited school.
- Licensure: An active, full, and unrestricted medical license.
- Board Certification: Must be board certified in Psychiatry.
- Residency: Completion of an accredited core residency program.
Comparison Table: Why Choose the VA?
| Feature | VA Benefits | Private Sector (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Liability | Free, including tail coverage | Often paid out-of-pocket |
| Retirement | Pension + 401k match | Usually 401k only |
| Student Loans | EDRP (up to $200k) | Rare |
| Work-Life Balance | Regular M-F hours | Often requires on-call/weekends |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $240,000 to $315,000 per year, supplemented by annual performance bonuses and regular pay increases. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a comprehensive benefits package, including federal health insurance, a solid pension, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Detail your CV: Use specific dates (month/year) for all schooling and training.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure your medical license is current and clear of restrictions.
- Leverage Preference: If you are a veteran, ensure your DD214 is uploaded to receive hiring preference.
Serving as a Psychiatrist within the VA system is more than just a job; it is a commitment to quality care for our nation’s heroes. With a focus on work-life balance, debt reduction support, and clinical excellence, this role is a premier opportunity for a talented Psychiatrist.
Why This Psychiatrist Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served our country while advancing your career as a Psychiatrist with the VA Coastal Healthcare System.
Psychiatrist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatrist to join our clinical team at the Fayetteville VA Coastal Healthcare System, specifically serving the Wilmington Health Care Center in Wilmington, North Carolina. This role focuses on providing high-quality, comprehensive mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and specialized treatment planning in an outpatient setting.
Requirements for Psychiatrist
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific waiver conditions are met).
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license to practice in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C.
- Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Board certification in Psychiatry.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Ability to complete a background security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Psychiatrist
- ABPN Addiction Board Certification.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary and annual performance bonuses
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with 5% matching
- ✓Generous PTO (50-55 days total including sick leave and holidays)
- ✓Liability protection with tail coverage
- ✓CME reimbursement of $1,000 annually
💡 How to Apply Psychiatrist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychiatrist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume/CV ensuring all medical education and residency dates are listed.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online portal.
- Submit your application and required documents before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and requests for further information.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your CV includes specific start/end months and years for all medical training and residencies.
- Carefully review your application for completeness before submission to avoid delays.
- Mention all volunteer experience, as it counts toward your qualifying history.
- If you are a veteran, include your DD214 or SF-15 to claim preference points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP. Eligibility and award amounts are determined by the VHA upon review of your application.
What is the work schedule for this role?
The role operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding federal holidays.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: to care for those who have served in our military and their families. As a member of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), you will work in an environment that prioritizes patient-centered care and professional growth.