Advance Your Career as a Physical Therapist with the VA in Reno
Are you a licensed Physical Therapist looking to combine your clinical passion with a rewarding mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a motivated Fee Basis Physical Therapist to provide essential rehabilitation services in Reno, Nevada. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve our nation's Veterans while enjoying the unique culture and outdoor lifestyle of the Reno-Tahoe area.
Why Work in Reno?
Reno offers an incredible lifestyle. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, you are never far from world-class hiking, skiing, and water sports. The city itself boasts a vibrant culinary scene, a strong sense of community, and no state income tax—making it an ideal location for both professional growth and personal adventure.
Job Responsibilities
As a Fee Basis Physical Therapist, you will be a vital part of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) team. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Performing comprehensive physical therapy evaluations.
- Developing individualized treatment plans for Veterans with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and cardiopulmonary impairments.
- Documenting progress notes in the electronic medical record.
- Providing recommendations for mobility equipment and safety strategies.
- Coordinating care with other medical providers to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A degree in Physical Therapy from a CAPTE-accredited institution.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to practice.
- Background: Ability to pass a security investigation and drug screening.
- Health: Ability to meet all physical and immunization requirements.
Comparison of Education & Experience Paths
| Degree Level | Required Experience |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's | 5 Years |
| Master's | 2 Years |
| Doctorate | No Prior Experience Required |
Salary Overview
This Fee Basis role provides a competitive compensation structure per clinical service:
- Consult/Assessment: $85 per encounter.
- Treatment: $21.25 per treatment session.
- Cap: Earnings are capped at $20,000 per calendar year.
Benefits
Working for the VA offers more than just a paycheck. You will gain access to a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment where you can refine your skills, work with complex clinical cases, and feel the deep personal satisfaction of supporting our Veterans.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Ensure your resume highlights specific experience with patient assessments and treatment planning.
- Upload Everything: Don't forget your transcripts, professional license, and any required veterans' preference documentation.
- Check Status: Use the USAJOBS portal to monitor your application throughout the review process.
If you are a dedicated Physical Therapist ready to apply your skills in a setting that truly values your contribution, the VA in Reno is the place for you. Join a team that honors those who served while building a fulfilling career in one of the most beautiful regions in the West.
Why This Fee Basis - Physical Therapist Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by providing high-quality physical therapy care in the beautiful Reno-Tahoe region.
Fee Basis - Physical Therapist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Fee Basis Physical Therapist to join the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation team in Reno, Nevada. This role focuses on delivering exceptional, patient-centered rehabilitation services to our nation's Veterans. You will have the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment, evaluating and treating patients across various clinical settings to improve their functional independence and overall well-being. This position offers a unique chance to balance your professional expertise with a vibrant lifestyle in a location known for its outdoor recreation and dynamic community.
Requirements for Fee Basis - Physical Therapist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice physical therapy.
- Graduate of a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program.
- Must meet specific degree and experience requirements based on your educational background.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Completion of annual health requirements, including TB screening and influenza vaccination.
- Subject to background and security investigation.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
Preferred Qualifications for Fee Basis - Physical Therapist
- Experience in independent clinical decision-making.
- Ability to supervise physical therapy assistants and clinical students.
- Strong interpersonal skills for working with diverse patient populations.
- Demonstrated ability to thrive in stressful clinical environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Professional work-life balance.
- ✓Opportunity to serve Veterans.
- ✓Access to a wide range of clinical experiences.
- ✓Work in a scenic location with no state income tax in Nevada.
💡 How to Apply Fee Basis - Physical Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fee Basis - Physical Therapist Job
- Create or log in to your account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare your long-form resume or CV and gather required documents (transcripts, licenses, etc.).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire through the application link.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline on November 2, 2026.
- Monitor your email for confirmation and status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your experience, including dates and specific clinical duties.
- Verify all professional licenses are current and upload supporting documentation.
- Double-check that your transcripts reflect the required CAPTE-accredited degree.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues on the closing date.
- Review your responses on the questionnaire for accuracy before final submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'Fee Basis' position?
A fee basis position is a specific employment type within the VA where practitioners are often compensated based on the specific services or consults performed, rather than a standard hourly salary structure.
Can non-citizens apply?
Generally, U.S. citizenship is required. Non-citizens may only be appointed if it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
What are the physical demands of this role?
This position requires walking, standing, bending, and lifting. You may need to transfer patients, so manual dexterity and physical stamina are essential.
What is the time commitment for this role?
*A: The schedule is generally one day per weekend, 2-3 weekends per month. Exact details will be finalized during the interview.*
Do I need a specific type of license?
*A: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice physical therapy in a U.S. State or territory.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing care at over 1,200 facilities. The mission is clear: to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. Working with the VA means joining a team dedicated to compassionate, whole-health care.