Lead Mental Health Excellence: Senior Psychologist Program Manager in Tacoma
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class, comprehensive healthcare to our nation's Veterans. The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is currently searching for a high-caliber leader to serve as the Senior Psychologist Program Manager for the Outpatient Mental Health (OMH) section at our American Lake division. This role is a unique opportunity to lead a large, multidisciplinary team and shape the mental health landscape for one of the most complex VA healthcare systems in the country.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as the Director of OMH for the Mental Health Service Line. Your primary duties include:
- Program Management (30%): Leading the development and oversight of complex clinical care programs.
- Supervisory Duties (20%): Providing administrative and clinical supervision to Program Managers and frontline staff.
- Clinical Care (45%): Conducting psychological assessments and diagnostic services while providing evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions.
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate a strong educational and professional background in psychology. Key requirements include:
- A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Completion of an accredited internship.
- A full, unrestricted psychology license.
- At least four years of professional experience, including one year at the GS-14 level.
Salary and Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-15 |
| Salary Range | $166,283 - $197,200 |
| Location | Tacoma, Washington |
| Benefits | Comprehensive Federal Package |
Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, the VA offers an unparalleled benefits package, including:
- Financial Incentives: Potential access to the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Work-Life Balance: Up to 50 days of combined leave per year.
- Support: Parental leave and child care subsidies for qualifying families.
- Future Security: Robust pension and 401K matching programs.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume clearly links your past performance to the specific KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) listed in the announcement. Be precise about your management experience—quantify the size of the teams you have led and the impact of the programs you have managed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the trial period? A: As a condition of employment, a 1 or 2-year trial period is required to evaluate performance and agency fit.
Q: Can I apply if I have a foreign degree? A: Yes, but you must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript.
This role offers more than just a paycheck; it offers the chance to lead and mentor a team that directly improves the lives of those who have served our country. If you have the expertise and the desire to serve, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job Matters
Lead a high-impact mental health team at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System and shape the future of care for those who served our nation.
Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking an experienced Senior Psychologist Program Manager to lead the Outpatient Mental Health section at our American Lake division in Tacoma, Washington. This critical leadership role oversees a multidisciplinary team dedicated to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based care to our Veterans. You will manage complex clinical programs, provide high-level supervision to staff, and implement innovative strategies to ensure the highest standards of mental health excellence.
Requirements for Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program
- Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Four years of professional psychology experience, with at least one year equivalent to the GS-14 level
- Passing a pre-employment medical evaluation and drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section
- Demonstrated expertise in managing large, complex organizational units
- Proven track record in policy negotiation and clinical program development
- Advanced interpersonal and problem-solving skills in a multidisciplinary environment
- Experience in utilizing measurement tools for system-wide analysis
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year
- ✓12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan
- ✓Federal 401K with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Prepare your long-form resume, current license documentation, and relevant transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details how your experience aligns with the required KSAs.
- Submit all required documentation, including SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Double-check that your license is current and clear in the documentation.
- Highlight volunteer or specialized experience if it mirrors the required professional duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP)?
It is a student loan reimbursement program offering up to $200,000 for qualifying professionals. Interested candidates should review their eligibility upon appointment.
Is this position remote?
No, this is an onsite position based at the American Lake division in Tacoma, Washington.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
VA Puget Sound Healthcare System (VAPSHCS) is a Level 1a major interdisciplinary teaching institution. Our facilities, located across the Pacific Northwest, house specialized units ranging from Spinal Cord Injury treatment to Blind Rehabilitation. We pride ourselves on a culture of compassionate, integrated care.