Advance Your Career as an Assistant Chief Physician with the VA
The VA Northern California Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated and visionary Physician to serve as the Assistant Chief (AACOS) of the Southern Tier. This is an exceptional opportunity for a physician looking to combine their clinical expertise with strategic leadership in a system dedicated to providing world-class care to our nation's Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant Chief, you will split your time between patient care and administrative leadership. Key duties include:
- Clinical Care: Treating patients for acute and chronic conditions.
- Administrative Oversight: Managing clinic staffing models, ensuring regulatory compliance, and participating in strategic planning.
- Mentorship: Serving as a preceptor for residents and medical students.
- Operations Management: Ensuring efficient clinic throughput and high-quality patient outcomes.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship of the United States.
- Graduation from an accredited allopathic or osteopathic medical school.
- A full and unrestricted medical license.
- Residency training in a core specialty.
- Proficiency in English and ability to pass a physical examination.
Comparison of Benefits
| Benefit Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $300,000 - $400,000 |
| Loan Repayment | EDRP up to $200,000 |
| Retirement | Pension + 401k (5% Match) |
| PTO | 50-55 Days annually |
| Malpractice | Fully covered with tail coverage |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary range between $300,000 and $400,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to base pay, the VA provides annual performance bonuses and regular salary step increases.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly detail your leadership experience alongside your clinical practice.
- Submit Early: While the posting remains open until December 2026, applications submitted before October 28, 2026, will be prioritized.
- Double-Check Documentation: Ensure your medical license and board certification proof are current and legible.
Join a team where your work truly matters. By serving as an Assistant Chief with the VA, you are not just taking a job; you are taking a stand for the health and well-being of those who sacrificed for our freedom. Apply today to begin your journey with the VA Northern California Healthcare System.
Why This Physician - Assistant Chief, Southern Tier (Stockton) Job Matters
Lead the future of Veteran care in California—the VA Northern California Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Physician to serve as Assistant Chief of the Southern Tier.
Physician - Assistant Chief, Southern Tier (Stockton) Job Overview
The VA Northern California Healthcare System is looking for a mission-driven physician to fill the role of Assistant Chief (AACOS) for the Southern Tier, which encompasses clinics in Martinez, Fairfield, Mare Island, Stockton, Sonora, and Modesto. This hybrid leadership position balances direct patient care with strategic administrative oversight, ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare to those who have served our nation.
Requirements for Physician - Assistant Chief, Southern Tier (Stockton)
- U.S. Citizenship (unless a qualified citizen is unavailable)
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy from an accredited institution
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. State or Territory
- Completed residency training in a core specialty
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Board certified or board eligible in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine
- Ability to pass pre-employment physical and drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Physician - Assistant Chief, Southern Tier (Stockton)
- Experience in Primary Care, Internal Medicine, or Family Medicine
- Current Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration
- Leadership experience in a clinical or administrative setting
- Ability to manage human capital and clinic operations
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- âś“Federal pension plan and 401k with up to 5% employer match
- âś“50-55 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- âś“Professional liability protection with tail coverage
- âś“Annual performance bonuses and salary increases
đź’ˇ How to Apply Physician - Assistant Chief, Southern Tier (Stockton) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician - Assistant Chief, Southern Tier (Stockton) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and C.V. detailing your relevant clinical and administrative experience.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online application portal.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of December 14, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights both your clinical practice and your administrative/leadership achievements.
- Apply early; the first cut-off date for initial review is October 28, 2026.
- Have your medical license and board certification documentation ready for verification.
- If claiming Veterans' preference, ensure you include your DD214 and any required SF-15 documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program requirements.
What is the work schedule?
This is a full-time position with a typical schedule of Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
Does the position require frequent travel?
The AACOS covers multiple sites in the Southern Tier; please be prepared for operational oversight that may require coordination across these locations.
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 served in our military and their families. The VA Northern California Health Care System (VANCHCS) provides comprehensive medical, surgical, and mental health services. Working in Stockton, you will join a supportive community that values innovation, academic energy, and professional growth.