Advance Your Career as a Psychiatrist with the Madison VA
Are you a dedicated psychiatrist looking for a position that balances clinical excellence, academic involvement, and a deep sense of purpose? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a motivated Physician (Psychiatrist) to join the Great Lakes Healthcare System in Madison, Wisconsin. This unique role offers the chance to serve those who have served our country while enjoying the stability and benefits of a federal career.
Key Responsibilities
As a Psychiatrist, you will split your time between General Mental Health (GMH) and Addictions treatment. Your daily duties will include:
- Direct Patient Care: Providing medication management, individual and group psychotherapy, and behavioral interventions.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Serving as a core member of an addictions treatment team and consulting with other medical staff.
- Program Development: Identifying gaps in current services and helping implement new, evidence-driven care protocols.
- Educational Leadership: Supervising interns and staff, providing staff development presentations, and contributing to the VHA’s inter-professional education program.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must:
- Hold a valid medical degree (MD or DO).
- Possess a full, unrestricted license to practice in any U.S. State or territory.
- Have completed an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency.
- Be a U.S. Citizen (or meet specific recruitment criteria).
- Maintain the physical ability to perform essential job functions.
Salary and Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive "Total Rewards" package that is difficult to match in the private sector.
Compensation Comparison
| Benefit Feature | Federal VA Package | Standard Private Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Salary Range | $215,000 - $300,000 | Varies by Region |
| Loan Repayment | Up to $200,000 (EDRP) | Rare |
| Time Off | Up to 55 Days Annual | Typically 15-20 Days |
| Malpractice | Full Coverage/Tail Paid | Often Paid by Physician |
In addition to the base salary, employees benefit from a robust federal pension, 401(k) matching, and extensive health, dental, and vision insurance programs that can be carried into retirement.
Application Tips
- Highlight Your Experience: Include all clinical and volunteer psychiatric work on your resume.
- Focus on Outcomes: When describing past roles, use metrics to show how your interventions improved patient care.
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the January deadline, as positions can be filled as soon as a qualified candidate is identified.
The Madison VA offers more than just a job; it offers a career dedicated to excellence and service. If you are ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply and join our mission to serve the men and women who have protected our nation.
Why This Physician (Psychiatrist) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served by joining the Madison VA’s dedicated psychiatric team—now offering up to $200,000 in student loan debt reduction.
Physician (Psychiatrist) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a skilled Physician (Psychiatrist) to join the Great Lakes Healthcare System in Madison, Wisconsin. This role focuses on interdisciplinary mental health and addictions treatment, offering the chance to balance high-quality patient care with potential academic research and faculty opportunities. As a key member of a collaborative clinical team, you will provide comprehensive psychiatric services while helping to shape the future of Veteran-centered mental health care.
Requirements for Physician (Psychiatrist)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. State or territory.
- Degree of Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine from an accredited institution.
- Completion of an ACGME or AOA-accredited residency training program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must be able to successfully complete a background and security investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Psychiatrist)
- Three years of clinical psychiatric practice.
- Demonstrated experience in evidence-based interdisciplinary addictions treatment.
- Interest or experience in academic teaching and clinical research.
- Eligibility for a faculty appointment at the University of Wisconsin Department of Psychiatry.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
- ✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonuses.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal 401k retirement plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Generous PTO (up to 55 days annually, including holidays and sick leave).
- ✓Possible $1,000 annual CME reimbursement.
- ✓Free malpractice and liability protection.
💡 How to Apply Physician (Psychiatrist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician (Psychiatrist) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and C.V. detailing all relevant experience.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire within the online application.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of January 8, 2027.
- Monitor your email for status updates regarding qualification and referral.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume reflects both paid and volunteer experience to highlight your full competency range.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, provide a legible copy of your DD214.
- Apply early; the vacancy announcement may close ahead of the listed date if the position is filled.
- Check your USAJOBS dashboard regularly for notifications regarding your status.
- Reach out to the agency contact for assistance if you require an alternative application method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualified candidates.
Can I hold a faculty appointment while working here?
Yes, qualified candidates may be eligible for a faculty appointment in the University of Wisconsin Department of Psychiatry.
What is the expected schedule?
This position is part-time, typically scheduled for 24–32 hours per week, with exact details determined during the interview process.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have borne the battle and their families. Working at the Madison VA means joining a team dedicated to compassionate, evidence-based care. We pride ourselves on an interdisciplinary model where mental health professionals work together to provide holistic, patient-centered outcomes.