Become an Assistant Chief Psychologist at the Veterans Health Administration

Are you a seasoned psychologist looking to transition into a high-impact leadership role? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring an Assistant Chief for Behavioral Health in White City, Oregon. This position is a perfect blend of clinical expertise and administrative leadership, allowing you to influence how mental health care is delivered to our nation’s heroes.

Job Responsibilities

As the Assistant Chief, you will work closely with the Associate Chief of Staff to drive service-level strategy. Key duties include:

Program Planning: Using data-driven analytics to identify service gaps and allocate resources.
Leadership: Directly supervising interdisciplinary behavioral health staff and fostering professional development.
Compliance: Ensuring that clinical care meets VA and national accreditation standards.
Operations: Managing budgets, equipment, and staff training requirements.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-14 level role, candidates must meet strict professional requirements:

Requirement	Description
Education	Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA/CPA accredited program.
Experience	Three years of experience, including one year at the GS-13 level.
Licensure	Unrestricted license to practice at the doctoral level.
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $150,424 to $195,558 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides one of the best benefits packages in the country, including substantial paid time off, federal pension programs, and the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) to assist with student loans.

How to Apply

Applicants should apply through the official USAJOBS portal. Ensure you have your CV, transcripts, and proof of licensure ready before beginning the application questionnaire. All applications must be submitted by the closing date of November 13, 2026.

Serving as an Assistant Chief Psychologist at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the wellbeing of Veterans. If you have the leadership skills and clinical background to make a difference, we encourage you to apply today.

Why This Psychologist (Assistant Chief) Job Matters

Elevate your career in clinical leadership at the Veterans Health Administration, where your expertise as a Psychologist directly impacts the lives of those who served our nation.

Psychologist (Assistant Chief) Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated and experienced Psychologist to serve as an Assistant Chief for Behavioral Health in White City, Oregon. This vital role involves bridging the gap between clinical excellence and strategic administration, ensuring our Veterans receive the high-quality, compassionate mental health care they deserve. You will collaborate with the Associate Chief of Staff to optimize service delivery, manage operational resources, and mentor a multidisciplinary team. This position offers a unique chance to shape the future of behavioral health services within a mission-driven environment.

Requirements for Psychologist (Assistant Chief)

U.S. Citizenship (unless no qualified citizens are available)
Doctoral degree in psychology (APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program)
Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA
Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation and drug screening

Preferred Qualifications for Psychologist (Assistant Chief)

Three years of experience as a professional psychologist
At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-13 level
Previous leadership or supervisory experience within a behavioral health setting
Demonstrated ability to manage complex budgets, staffing, and clinical operations

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary and regular pay increases
✓Generous paid time off (up to 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays)
✓Federal retirement benefits, including a pension and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan
✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility for qualified loans
✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees

💡 How to Apply Psychologist (Assistant Chief) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Psychologist (Assistant Chief) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your long-form resume, current license documentation, and academic transcripts.
Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
Submit your application and all supporting documents before the closing date of November 13, 2026.
Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume to specifically address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the job requirements.
Ensure all documentation, including professional licenses and transcripts, is clearly labeled and uploaded.
Double-check your eligibility status for the EDRP program before applying.
Submit early to avoid technical issues as the closing deadline approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this is an onsite position in White City, Oregon, though some ad-hoc telework may be available at the discretion of the supervisor.

What is the EDRP and am I eligible?

The Education Debt Reduction Program provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualifying employees. Eligibility is determined post-appointment by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VHA is committed to a "Whole Health" approach that focuses on the physical, mental, and social well-being of those who have served.