Advance Your Career as an Occupational Therapist with the West Texas VA
Are you a dedicated Occupational Therapist looking to transition your clinical skills into a rewarding career serving those who have protected our nation? The West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS) is currently hiring for an Occupational Therapist to join our team in Big Spring, Texas. This role offers the unique combination of professional stability, clinical autonomy, and a significant financial incentive through the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Job Responsibilities
As an Occupational Therapist at the GS-12 level, you will serve as an independent practitioner within the Geriatrics and Extended Care service line. Your core responsibilities will include:
- Conducting comprehensive patient evaluations using standardized and non-standardized assessment tools.
- Developing and modifying individualized treatment plans to enhance daily living, work, play, and social participation.
- Utilizing behavioral interventions and activity analysis to improve patient functional outcomes.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, physical therapists, and nursing staff.
- Fabricating and adjusting adaptive equipment and orthoses.
Qualification Requirements
To be considered for this competitive position, you must meet basic requirements including a degree from an ACOTE-accredited program, a valid and unrestricted state license, and current NBCOT certification. Candidates at higher grade levels (GS-11/12) must demonstrate specific experience equivalent to lower grade-level work, including the ability to independently manage complex caseloads.
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Requirements | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-9 | Entry/Developmental | Basic foundations and practice |
| GS-11 | Proficient | Independent practice and assessment |
| GS-12 | Full Performance | Complex problem solving and clinical leadership |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a highly competitive annual salary range of $78,484 to $147,963, depending on experience and grade level. Beyond the base salary, VA employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package:
- EDRP: Student loan reimbursement up to $200,000.
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Health: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires attention to detail. Ensure your resume is detailed, long-form, and highlights your clinical achievements specifically. Submit your application through the official USAJOBS portal before the January 8, 2027 deadline. Don't forget to attach your license, transcripts, and any relevant veteran preference documentation.
Joining the West Texas VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in patient care. With the support of the EDRP and a team dedicated to whole health, this is an ideal step for any clinician looking to advance their career. Apply today to secure your place in a system that values your expertise as much as you value the lives of our Veterans.
Why This Occupational Therapist-Education Debt Reduction Program-Authorized Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation while advancing your clinical career in a supportive, mission-driven environment in beautiful West Texas.
Occupational Therapist-Education Debt Reduction Program-Authorized Job Overview
The West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS) is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to join our Geriatrics and Extended Care service line. Based in the vibrant community of Big Spring, Texas, this role offers the opportunity to provide high-quality, comprehensive clinical care to our Veteran population. This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), providing up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualified candidates.
Requirements for Occupational Therapist-Education Debt Reduction Program-Authorized
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment exceptions apply).
- Current, full, and unrestricted state license to practice occupational therapy.
- Current NBCOT certification.
- Degree in Occupational Therapy from an ACOTE-accredited program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist-Education Debt Reduction Program-Authorized
- Four years of specialized clinical experience in an occupational therapy setting.
- Advanced clinical reasoning skills for complex, multi-system patient cases.
- Experience in geriatric or extended care environments.
- Demonstrated ability to perform comprehensive patient evaluations using both standardized and non-standardized tools.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Federal employee health and life insurance options
- ✓Competitive federal retirement system
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Ad-hoc telework flexibility
💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist-Education Debt Reduction Program-Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Occupational Therapist-Education Debt Reduction Program-Authorized Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a comprehensive long-form resume or CV.
- Review and gather required documents (transcripts, licenses, veteran preference forms).
- Submit your application package online before the closing date of January 8, 2027.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire embedded in the application.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough when describing your experience in your resume; do not rely on the hiring manager to assume skills.
- Ensure all educational documentation clearly states the ACOTE accreditation status.
- Double-check your state licensure status; it must be full and unrestricted.
- Check your USAJOBS account frequently for updates on your referral status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides reimbursement for student loans up to $200,000 based on program approval and individual eligibility.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is not a virtual position. However, ad-hoc telework is permitted based on departmental agreements and specific job duties.
What is the full performance level of this job?
The full performance level for this position is GS-12. Applicants may be selected at the GS-9, GS-11, or GS-12 levels depending on their qualifications and experience.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The West Texas VA Health Care System is committed to fulfilling the promise to care for our nation's Veterans, their families, and survivors. Serving approximately 57,000 Veterans across West Texas and parts of New Mexico, the WTVAHCS is a state-of-the-art facility offering comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services. Big Spring, often called "The Crossroads of West Texas," provides a thriving community with a revitalized downtown and proximity to major regional hubs like Lubbock and Midland.