Become a Home-Based Occupational Therapist for the VA
Are you an Occupational Therapist looking to make a meaningful difference? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Iron Mountain, Michigan, is currently seeking a passionate and skilled Occupational Therapist to join our Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) team. This role offers the opportunity to provide essential care to those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Occupational Therapist in the HBPC program, you will practice independently, providing expert assessments and creating personalized treatment plans. Your daily duties will include:
- Performing comprehensive evaluations of functional and occupational needs.
- Developing individualized treatment plans and setting attainable goals.
- Modifying patient treatment as they progress.
- Recommending and adapting durable medical equipment for home safety.
- Collaborating with an interdisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, and caregivers.
- Educating patients and families on therapeutic exercises and life-safety strategies.
Qualifications
This position is open to individuals at the GS-9 through GS-12 levels. Key requirements include:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program.
- Credentialing: Must hold current NBCOT certification and a valid state license.
- Physical: Must be able to ambulate patients and lift up to 50 pounds.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Requirements Overview |
|---|---|
| GS-9 | Base requirements met; entry-level practitioner. |
| GS-11 | 1 year experience at GS-9 level or doctorate degree. |
| GS-12 | 1 year experience at GS-11 level with advanced clinical expertise. |
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with significant advantages. Beyond a competitive salary, you will have access to a robust benefits package, including:
- Federal health insurance options.
- Comprehensive retirement plans including FERS.
- Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- A collaborative work environment that prioritizes professional growth.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Clearly describe your clinical experience. The hiring team cannot make assumptions about your past duties.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts, licenses, and certifications are uploaded before the deadline.
- Check Status: Use the USAJOBS dashboard to track your application after you hit submit.
Providing care to our Veterans in their homes is an incredibly rewarding way to use your clinical skills. If you are a licensed Occupational Therapist ready to take the next step in your career with the Department of Veterans Affairs, we encourage you to apply by the closing date.
Why This Occupational Therapist (Home Based Primary Care) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by delivering essential occupational therapy directly to our Veterans in the comfort of their own homes.
Occupational Therapist (Home Based Primary Care) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist for their Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) program in Iron Mountain, Michigan. This role is pivotal in providing compassionate, specialized care to Veterans, focusing on maintaining independence and quality of life through comprehensive evaluations and tailored intervention plans.
Requirements for Occupational Therapist (Home Based Primary Care)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Degree in occupational therapy from an ACOTE-accredited program.
- Current, full, and unrestricted state licensure to practice as an OT.
- Current NBCOT certification.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical/medical evaluation.
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist (Home Based Primary Care)
- Experience in home health or primary care settings.
- Proven ability to manage independent caseloads.
- Strong interdisciplinary collaboration and communication skills.
- Advanced knowledge in the adaptation and modification of durable medical equipment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with growth potential (GS-9 to GS-12).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- ✓Stable work-life balance with a Monday-Friday schedule.
💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist (Home Based Primary Care) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Occupational Therapist (Home Based Primary Care) Job
- Create a profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume highlighting clinical experience.
- Gather supporting documents including academic transcripts and professional licenses.
- Apply online by completing the required questionnaire before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be explicit in your resume about your experience; do not assume the hiring team knows your previous clinical duties.
- Ensure your resume reflects both paid and volunteer experience.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before submission to avoid disqualification.
- Clearly highlight your ability to solve complex problems and adapt equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work schedule for this position?
The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Can I apply if I am a recent graduate without a license?
Yes, under specific circumstances, you may be appointed as a temporary 'Graduate OT' for up to two years while you actively pursue your required credentials.
Does this position involve traveling?
Yes, as this is a Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) role, you will be conducting patient visits in their home environments.
Can I telework?
No, this is not a telework or virtual position; it requires active travel to patient homes.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, all new appointees to this role must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We are committed to fulfilling 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 mission-driven organization that values ICARE—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.