Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist at the Houston VA
The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is currently accepting applications for a high-impact Staff Psychologist position within their Workplace Violence Prevention Program. This role is perfect for a seasoned clinical expert looking to blend direct psychological practice with institutional leadership and safety strategy.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, you will operate at the nexus of clinical care and facility safety. Your duties will include:
- Threat Assessment: Conducting comprehensive evaluations of patient, family, and visitor behavior to prevent workplace violence.
- Risk Mitigation: Developing and implementing clinically, culturally, and legally grounded safety strategies.
- Leadership: Serving as a chair or co-chair of the Disruptive Behavior Committee and reporting directly to executive leadership.
- Training & Consultation: Providing support and education to staff regarding workplace safety and positive engagement strategies.
- Supervision: Overseeing psychology trainees and consulting with other health care disciplines.
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must hold a doctoral degree in psychology and have completed an accredited internship. You must also possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice.
Comparison of Qualification Pathways
| Pathway | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| Standard | APA/CPA Accredited Doctoral Program + Internship |
| Re-specialization | APA/CPA Accredited Re-specialization Program |
| Legacy | Doctoral degree 1951-1978 + Dissertation |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $152,754 to $198,583 annually. Pay setting is based on qualifications and experience, with opportunities for regular increases.
Benefits
- EDRP: Student loan repayment up to $200,000.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k) with up to 5% agency match.
- Time Off: Up to 50 days of combined leave and holidays.
- Insurance: Comprehensive federal health, life, and disability options.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume includes month-to-month employment dates and details about your specific clinical duties. Avoid generic descriptions; use your resume to showcase how your experience directly aligns with threat assessment and crisis management.
This role is an ideal opportunity for an experienced psychologist to lead safety initiatives while supporting the veteran community in a world-class facility. If you possess the required clinical expertise, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Staff Psychologist (Workplace Violence Prevention Program) Job Matters
Make a tangible impact on veteran safety and welfare as a Lead Staff Psychologist in Houston.
Staff Psychologist (Workplace Violence Prevention Program) Job Overview
The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the Workplace Violence Prevention Program. This critical role involves performing comprehensive threat assessments, facilitating risk mitigation strategies, and providing expert consultation to medical center leadership to ensure a secure environment for veterans, families, and staff.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist (Workplace Violence Prevention Program)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program
- Completed an APA or CPA accredited professional psychology internship
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Must pass a drug screening
- Must be able to maintain required vaccinations, including seasonal influenza
- Background and security investigation clearance
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist (Workplace Violence Prevention Program)
- Experience with evidence-based risk assessment
- Proficiency in adapting technology to improve clinical outcomes
- Experience leading multidisciplinary hospital teams
- Strong background in behavioral health consultation
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with employer match
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 26 days annual leave and 13 days sick leave)
- ✓11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Paid parental leave (after 12 months)
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist (Workplace Violence Prevention Program) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist (Workplace Violence Prevention Program) Job
- Create or log in to a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a long-form resume or CV, including specific duty descriptions and hours worked.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and a copy of your license.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the month and year for every job entry to demonstrate your experience.
- Be as specific as possible regarding your threat assessment and clinical experience.
- Verify your eligibility for Veterans' Preference before submitting if applicable.
- Double-check that your license information is current and active.
- Submit all documents well in advance of the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on policy and application review.
Can I work remotely or via telework for this role?
No, this is a site-based position located in Houston, Texas, and does not support virtual work or telework arrangements.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation/recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
When is the deadline?
The announcement closes on November 2, 2026.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. The Houston VA facility serves over 151,000 veterans in the region, offering a sophisticated healthcare environment that combines high-tech medical care with a compassionate approach to service.