Become a Staff Psychologist with the VA in Lincoln, Nebraska
Are you a dedicated clinical psychologist seeking a role that balances high-level care with a deep sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for a talented Staff Psychologist to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Lincoln, Nebraska. This is more than just a job; it is a commitment to serving those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, you will operate at the intersection of clinical excellence and multidisciplinary collaboration. Your core duties include:
- Conducting comprehensive psychological assessments and diagnostic evaluations.
- Delivering evidence-based psychotherapy for mental health, substance use, and behavioral concerns.
- Providing clinical supervision to unlicensed staff and trainees.
- Offering behavioral health consultation to medical providers.
- Implementing suicide prevention and crisis management protocols.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship: Required for federal employment.
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice.
- Internship: Completion of a professional, accredited psychology internship program.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Experience Required |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry Level (Basic requirements met) |
| GS-12 | 1 year of equivalent professional experience |
| GS-13 | 2 years of professional experience (1 year at GS-12 level) |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is highly competitive, reflecting the expertise required for the role. The salary range for this vacancy is $92,622 to $171,691 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA offers a robust benefits package:
- Student Loan Repayment: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
- Retirement: Federal pension plan and a 401K-style plan with agency matching.
- Paid Time Off: Generous accrual of annual and sick leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
Application Tips
- Highlight Your Experience: Be explicit about your clinical rotations and specific therapy modalities in your resume.
- Organize Documents: Ensure your transcripts, license copies, and CV are in clear, readable formats before applying.
- Follow Instructions: Missing a single document, such as a transcript, can result in your application being rejected.
Join a healthcare system that values your well-being as much as your clinical expertise. Apply for the Staff Psychologist position with the VHA today and help us provide world-class care to our nation's Veterans.
Why This Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job Matters
Advance your clinical career while directly impacting the lives of those who served. Join a multidisciplinary team in Lincoln, Nebraska, where evidence-based care meets a supportive environment and top-tier benefits, including up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist for our Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Lincoln, Nebraska. This role offers the opportunity to provide comprehensive psychological assessments and evidence-based psychotherapy to a diverse Veteran population. You will work within an integrated healthcare system dedicated to the 'Whole Health' model, fostering professional growth and meaningful contributions to clinical service and research.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State or Territory
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip)
- Experience equivalent to the GS-11, GS-12, or GS-13 level in a professional clinical setting
- Demonstrated ability to design and implement effective treatment strategies
- Proven knowledge in psychological assessment methods and clinical research
- Experience working within multidisciplinary medical and mental health teams
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401K with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Generous PTO: 13-26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a long-form resume or CV, transcripts, and any necessary licensure documentation.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all required documents, including your transcript and professional certifications.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is detailed and lists specific clinical experience; do not assume the recruiter knows your background.
- Double-check that your transcripts are official and clearly show your degree completion.
- If you are a current federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 is included to verify your status.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues as the closing date approaches.
- Carefully review the 'Required Documents' section to ensure no omissions, as incomplete packages will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation assistance (Permanent Change of Station) is not authorized for this position.
Are unlicensed psychologists eligible?
Temporary appointments as a 'graduate psychologist' may be granted for up to two years while obtaining full licensure, provided requirements are met.
What is the EDRP program?
The Education Debt Reduction Program provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualifying professionals; you must apply within four months of appointment.
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an onsite position located in Lincoln, Nebraska.*
Do I need a security clearance?
*A: No, this position is non-sensitive, but you will undergo a standard background check.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have borne the battle and their families. The VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System provides exceptional, compassionate, and evidence-based care across an integrated network serving over 56,000 Veterans.