Launch Your Career as a Psychology Technician with the Defense Health Agency
Are you looking to transition your clinical skills into a rewarding federal career? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring a Psychology Technician to serve in Oak Harbor, Washington. This role is an excellent opportunity for professionals dedicated to supporting the mental health and readiness of our military personnel and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As a Psychology Technician, you will serve as a key member of the mental health team. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Clinical Support: Administering and scoring psychological assessments under the guidance of a licensed psychologist.
- Patient Care: Conducting patient interviews to gather essential medical histories.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate clinical records in the electronic medical record system.
- Case Coordination: Tracking treatment milestones and facilitating patient referrals to ensure continuity of care.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Experience/Education: You need one year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or at least 9 semester hours of graduate-level education in psychology.
- Compliance: You must pass a background investigation for a Secret security clearance and meet federal suitability requirements.
Salary Overview & Comparison
Positions at the DHA offer competitive federal compensation packages. Below is a brief overview of how this position compares to typical private sector roles:
| Feature | Federal Psychology Technician | Private Sector Tech |
|---|---|---|
| Salary Range | $51,037 - $66,348 | Varies by Region |
| Benefits | Full Federal Package | Employer Specific |
| Growth | Defined Grade Progression | Variable |
Benefits
Employees of the DHA enjoy a robust benefits package that includes:
- Competitive health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
- Stability and career mobility within the federal government.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is clear and strictly follows the two-page limit. Clearly define your previous clinical tasks, including the number of hours worked per week, and be prepared to attach your transcripts if you are qualifying based on your education.
Serving as a Psychology Technician at the DHA in Oak Harbor is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the wellbeing of our military community. If you possess the required skills and a passion for mental health care, we encourage you to apply before the November 10, 2026, deadline.
Why This Psychology Technician Job Matters
Launch your career in behavioral health with the Defense Health Agency in scenic Oak Harbor, Washington—where your clinical support skills make a real difference for our nation's service members.
Psychology Technician Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Psychology Technician to join our team in Oak Harbor, Washington. In this pivotal role, you will provide essential technical and paraprofessional support to licensed mental health professionals, ensuring our military personnel, retirees, and their families receive high-quality care. This direct-hire position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to a world-class integrated healthcare system while gaining invaluable experience in a federal medical setting.
Requirements for Psychology Technician
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level, such as interviewing patients, analyzing medical history, or administering psychological tests.
- Alternatively, hold a minimum of 9 semester hours of graduate-level education in psychology or a related field.
- A combination of education and experience that meets 100% of the total requirement.
- Must successfully undergo a background investigation for a Secret security clearance.
- Submit a resume of two pages or less that clearly details your experience and qualifications.
- Male applicants born after 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Psychology Technician
- Experience working in a clinical or hospital mental health setting.
- Proficiency in electronic medical record (EMR) systems.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate patient care and manage clinical documentation.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal healthcare and insurance plans.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the Defense Health Agency.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Psychology Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychology Technician Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting your relevant specialized experience.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked within the application portal.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline on November 10, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the system will disregard any portion of a resume exceeding two pages.
- Use clear, plain language to describe your past work experience; avoid obscure acronyms.
- Ensure your resume includes start and end dates (month/year) and the average hours worked per week for all relevant positions.
- Double-check your application for completeness before hitting submit, as incomplete packages will not be considered.
- Monitor your email for status updates throughout the hiring process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of security clearance is required for this position?
This position requires a Secret level security clearance, as well as a suitability and fitness assessment.
Is telework available for this role?
No, this position is not eligible for telework.
Can I use foreign education to meet the requirements?
Yes, but you must provide an evaluation from a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign education programs to prove it is equivalent to U.S. standards.
Is a recruitment incentive offered?
Yes, recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates.
How do I track my status?
You can monitor your application status directly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is a vital component of the Department of Defense, responsible for delivering integrated healthcare across the globe. By joining our team, you become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to serving those who serve our country. We prioritize clinical excellence, patient-centered care, and the professional growth of our team members.