Launch Your Career as a Therapy Assistant with the VA

Are you seeking a career that combines clinical skill with deep personal fulfillment? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Therapy Assistant at the Central Alabama VA Medical Center in Tuskegee. This role is a unique opportunity to contribute to the rehabilitation and well-being of America's Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Therapy Assistant, you will act as a vital member of the rehabilitative care team. Your daily duties will include:

Designing and implementing recreational therapy interventions.
Assessing patient functioning and social limitations.
Working with complex cases, including mental health and substance abuse issues.
Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to track patient progress.
Administering physical exercises to aid in recovery from stroke, amputation, or chronic illness.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-6 position, you must meet specific federal eligibility criteria. Below is a quick comparison of qualification paths:

Qualification Path	Requirement Details
Specialized Experience	1 year of experience equivalent to GS-5 in a similar therapy field
Education Substitution	Directly related degree (OT, PT, Exercise Science)
Time-in-Grade	52 weeks at the GS-5 level for current federal employees

Note: A complete list of requirements, including citizenship and background checks, can be found in the official job posting.

Salary and Benefits

Salary Range: $45,409 – $59,031 per year.
Benefits: Access to federal insurance, retirement programs, and the opportunity for career progression within the VA system.

How to Apply

Build your resume: Keep it to exactly two pages or less.
Gather docs: Have your transcripts and SF-50 forms ready.
Apply online: Use the link provided to submit your package via USAJOBS.
Assessment: Be prepared to complete the online competency assessment.

Serving our Veterans is a high calling. If you have the skills to help our patients regain their quality of life, we encourage you to submit your application before the November 2, 2026, deadline.

Why This Therapy Assistant Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the Central Alabama VA Medical Center as a Therapy Assistant.

Therapy Assistant Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Therapy Assistant to join our team in Tuskegee, Alabama. In this role, you will work closely with licensed recreation therapists to design, implement, and document therapeutic interventions that restore physical and mental function for Veterans. You will engage with patients across diverse settings, including community living, psychiatric units, and outpatient clinics, providing compassionate care that improves quality of life.

Requirements for Therapy Assistant

U.S. Citizenship
Must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of 11/02/2026
Current federal employees must meet time-in-grade requirements (52 weeks at GS-5 for GS-6 position)
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-6 level
Education substitution for experience requires a degree in a field such as Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, or Exercise Science
Must provide valid transcripts if using education to qualify
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation
Must register for Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959)
Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program

Preferred Qualifications for Therapy Assistant

Experience working in a hospital or clinical setting supporting specialized therapy teams
Strong interpersonal skills for communicating with patients and clinical staff
Ability to adapt treatment plans for patients with multiple medical complications

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package
✓Opportunity to earn annual leave based on federal service years
✓Meaningful career serving the Veteran community
✓Professional development and training opportunities within the VA system

💡 How to Apply Therapy Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Therapy Assistant Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less and formatted to highlight relevant experience.
Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
Attach all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s (if applicable).
Submit your application through the portal by the closing date of 11/02/2026.
Complete any required online assessments if notified via email.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your resume meets the two-page limit.
Be specific about your duties, including hours worked per week, as the VA does not make assumptions about experience.
Save your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting.
Double-check that your SF-50 clearly shows one year of time-in-grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
Set aside at least 3 hours to complete the online assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No. Effective September 2025, federal agencies require resumes to be two pages or less to remain eligible for consideration.

Is telework available for this position?

No, this position is not eligible for telework and requires on-site attendance.

Do I need to be a veteran to apply?

No, this position is open to the public, though veterans' preference may apply if you provide the necessary documentation.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We are committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining our team, you contribute to a mission of whole-health care.