Advance Your Career: Senior Psychologist Program Manager at VA Puget Sound
Are you a visionary clinical leader looking to make a lasting impact on the lives of Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a highly qualified Senior Psychologist Program Manager to join the VA Puget Sound Health Care System. This high-level position offers the chance to lead a dedicated team in the Outpatient Mental Health section, driving clinical excellence in one of the most complex healthcare environments in the country.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a Director for the Mental Health Service Line. Your core duties include:
- Program Management (30%): Leading the development, implementation, and oversight of complex clinical care programs.
- Supervision (20%): Providing administrative and clinical oversight to a diverse team of professionals.
- Clinical Practice (45%): Delivering high-level psychological assessments, evidence-based psychotherapy, and diagnostic services.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-15 role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA or CPA-accredited program.
- An active, unrestricted state license to practice at the doctoral level.
- Four years of professional experience, including at least one year at the GS-14 level or equivalent.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Benefit/Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Salary Range | $166,283 – $197,200 |
| Student Loan Repayment | Up to $200,000 via EDRP |
| Annual Paid Time Off | 37-50 Days |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 5% 401K Match |
Application Tips
Submit your application via the USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume highlights both your leadership accomplishments and your clinical expertise. Clearly document your supervisory experience and maintain a record of your license and doctoral transcript.
This role is an exceptional opportunity for a psychologist ready to transition into high-level administrative and clinical leadership. With competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a noble mission, you can build a meaningful career while supporting our nation's Veterans.
Why This Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job Matters
Lead a mission-driven team and transform mental health care for our nation's Veterans at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System.
Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Senior Psychologist Program Manager to lead the Outpatient Mental Health program at the American Lake division. In this vital leadership role, you will oversee a complex clinical care environment, manage a multidisciplinary team, and provide expert psychological diagnostic and therapeutic services. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape mental health initiatives in one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the nation, directly impacting the lives of those who have served.
Requirements for Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Subject to pre-employment drug screening and background investigation
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Must be able to pass a pre-employment medical evaluation
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Psychologist Program Manager - Outpatient Mental Health Section
- At least four years of professional experience as a psychologist
- Minimum of one year of experience equivalent to the GS-14 grade level
- Demonstrated expertise in directing large, complex clinical organizational units
- Strong skills in negotiation, conflict resolution, and motivational leadership
- Advanced ability to analyze and implement systemic clinical solutions
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- ✓Childcare subsidies for qualifying families
💡 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
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather required documentation (CV, transcripts, license)
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal
- Upload all required supporting documents, ensuring they are legible and current
- Submit your application package before the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume specifically to the GS-15 duties listed in the announcement
- Ensure your CV clearly documents your leadership and supervisory experience
- Double-check that your license information is current and clearly visible
- Submit well before the deadline to account for potential technical issues
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD-214 is properly attached
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP, which may provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement, subject to application and eligibility requirements.
Is this position fully remote?
No, this is an on-site position at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System, American Lake division in Tacoma, Washington.
What is the trial period?
New federal employees must complete a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate fitness and performance.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is a premier Level 1a teaching facility known for its interdisciplinary approach to healthcare. Providing care across two major divisions, the system supports a wide range of specialties, from spinal cord injury units to comprehensive psychiatric services. By joining this team, you become part of a mission-driven organization committed to delivering compassionate, whole-person care to the men and women who have served in our nation's military.