Become an Occupational Therapist at the Amarillo VA Health Care System
Are you a dedicated clinician looking for a career that combines professional growth with the opportunity to give back to those who have served? The Amarillo VA Health Care System is currently hiring an Occupational Therapist to join our clinical team. This position offers a stable, supportive environment and the chance to transform the lives of Veterans through comprehensive, evidence-based care.
Job Responsibilities
As an Occupational Therapist at the Amarillo VA, you will:
- Perform detailed assessments of patients with physical, cognitive, and psychosocial deficits.
- Develop and implement personalized intervention plans.
- Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, and physical therapists.
- Fabricate and modify adaptive equipment to improve patient safety.
- Educate Veterans and their families on home safety and post-discharge transitions.
- Supervise Certified Occupational Therapist Assistants to ensure quality care.
Requirements
To qualify for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Licensure: Current, full, and unrestricted OT license.
- Certification: Current NBCOT certification.
- Education: Graduate of an ACOTE-accredited occupational therapy program.
- Language: Proficient in written and spoken English.
Salary and Grade Comparison
The position is offered at the GS-9 to GS-12 level. Your specific starting grade is determined by your years of experience and education level.
| Level | Experience/Education Required |
|---|---|
| GS-9 | Basic Requirements |
| GS-11 | 1 year at GS-9 level or relevant graduate education |
| GS-12 | 1 year at GS-11 level and demonstrated independent practice |
Annual Salary Range: $72,065 - $116,362
Benefits
Working for the VA provides substantial benefits, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Professional liability protection and potential for continuing education support.
Application Tips
To ensure your application stands out, be descriptive when outlining your clinical experience. Use bullet points to list specific assessment tools or patient populations you have managed. Always include a current, long-form resume, and if you are using a degree to qualify, ensure your official transcripts are attached. Please note that the VA has a zero-tolerance policy for missing documents; ensure your file is complete before submitting.
If you are an Occupational Therapist eager to practice at the top of your license while supporting a vital cause, the Amarillo VA Health Care System is the place for you. Apply today to help us deliver the high-quality care our Veterans deserve.
Why This Occupational Therapist Job Matters
Advance your clinical career while serving our nation's heroes in the scenic and welcoming community of Amarillo, Texas.
Occupational Therapist Job Overview
The Amarillo VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to provide high-quality rehabilitative care. In this role, you will perform assessments and develop evidence-based treatment plans for Veterans facing acute and chronic physical, cognitive, or psychosocial dysfunction. You will work within an interdisciplinary team to enhance patient quality of life, independence, and functional performance.
Requirements for Occupational Therapist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a valid, current, and unrestricted license to practice Occupational Therapy in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Must hold current certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
- Must be a graduate of an ACOTE-approved Occupational Therapy program.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Completion of a successful background and security investigation.
- Must participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist
- Experience in outpatient settings providing assessment and treatment.
- Background in treating chronic pain using a biopsychosocial approach.
- Familiarity with telehealth or virtual care platforms.
- Experience in long-term care or skilled nursing facilities.
- Clinical experience in home-based care and home safety assessments.
- Acute care experience, particularly with post-operative orthopedic patients.
- Knowledge of seating systems and adaptive equipment fitting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Defined benefit retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical training
- ✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts
💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Occupational Therapist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJobs account.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume that details your clinical experience.
- Gather supporting documents such as your OT license, NBCOT certification, and academic transcripts.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documents, including DD-214 if claiming Veterans' Preference.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJobs dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume; do not assume the hiring panel knows your daily duties.
- Clearly highlight your work with specific populations (e.g., orthopedic, geriatric, or psychiatric).
- Ensure your license and certification information is up to date and clearly visible.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before submission to avoid disqualification.
- Submit early to address any technical issues before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
The role typically follows a Monday through Friday schedule, with shift options of 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position requiring the practitioner to be present at the Amarillo VA health facility.
Can I apply if I am a recent graduate without full licensure yet?
Yes, under specific circumstances, you may be appointed as a Graduate OT on a temporary, time-limited basis while completing your certification and licensure requirements.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*
How often is the position updated?
*A: The vacancy will remain open until filled. It is highly recommended to apply by the initial cutoff date for early consideration.*
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. Working at the Amarillo VA provides clinicians with a unique opportunity to provide "whole health" care in a facility known for its compassionate mission. Amarillo offers an excellent quality of life, featuring a low cost of living, no state income tax, and proximity to diverse outdoor adventures and cultural hubs.