Launch Your Career as a Psychology Technician with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical expertise with a deep commitment to service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Psychology Technician to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) team at the Monterey Clinic in Marina, California. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment dedicated to providing world-class care to our nation's Veterans.
About the Agency: The Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincolnβs promise to care for those who have served in our military and their families. Working at the VHA means joining a community that values compassion, integrity, and excellence. Employees enjoy a supportive work culture that emphasizes work-life balance, competitive pay, and the profound satisfaction of knowing your daily efforts contribute to the well-being of those who sacrificed for our country.
Job Responsibilities
The Psychology Technician plays a vital role in the daily operations of the BHIP team. Your work will directly impact how quickly and effectively Veterans receive mental health services. Key responsibilities include:
- rTMS Administration: Managing repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatments, including patient scheduling, transport, and protocol administration.
- Clinical Support: Assisting the Medical Director with motor threshold identification and supporting providers during patient encounters.
- Data Collection & Documentation: Maintaining clinical records, performing chart reviews, and ensuring data accuracy.
- Patient Interaction: Conducting brief interventions such as psycho-education and motivational interviewing, and ensuring a therapeutic environment for all Veterans.
Comparison: Qualification Requirements
| Requirement Type | Specific Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree (Major in Social/Bio Science) + 12 Semester hours in Psychology |
| Experience | 2 Years of technical experience (minimum 6 months at GS-8 level) |
| Alternative | 2 Full years of graduate study in psychology |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
Salary and Benefits Overview
The salary for this position ranges from $77,161 to $100,315 per year. Beyond the base salary, federal employment provides comprehensive benefits, including reliable leave accrual, health insurance options, and long-term career stability within the federal government.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Follow these steps to ensure your application is competitive:
- Prepare: Visit the USAJOBS website to build your profile.
- Resume Formatting: Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages and highlights your clinical skills.
- Documentation: Attach your transcripts and proof of Veterans' preference if applicable.
- Submit: Complete the online application and any required assessments before the October 30, 2026 deadline.
If you are a dedicated professional seeking a rewarding career in mental health, this Psychology Technician role in Marina is an excellent opportunity. By supporting the BHIP team, you will help optimize access to critical mental health services for Veterans. Apply today and become part of a team where your work truly matters.
Why This Psychology Technician Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact in the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program team in Marina, CA as a Psychology Technician.
Psychology Technician Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated Psychology Technician to support the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) at the Monterey Clinic. This role is instrumental in delivering high-quality, measurement-based mental health services. You will work closely with medical directors and clinicians to administer repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), conduct clinical assessments, and provide essential support to Veterans in a team-based outpatient environment.
Requirements for Psychology Technician
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher in a social or biological science with at least 12 semester hours in psychology
- Two years of technical experience under a professional psychologist (at least 6 months must be at the GS-8 level or 1 year at the GS-7 level)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Psychology Technician
- Experience in administering rTMS or similar neuro-diagnostic/therapeutic protocols
- Proven experience in data collection, chart reviews, and standardized test administration
- Familiarity with clinical documentation and privacy compliance protocols
- Background in motivational interviewing and brief psycho-educational intervention
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βGenerous paid time off (vacation and sick leave)
- βPredictable and flexible scheduling options
- βCareer development and training opportunities
- βMeaningful work serving Veterans
- βOpportunity for federal career advancement
π‘ How to Apply Psychology Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychology Technician Job
- Create a USAJOBS account and prepare a two-page maximum resume
- Submit your resume, academic transcripts, and any applicable supporting documents (e.g., DD-214)
- Complete the online questionnaire and required assessments
- Monitor your email for potential requests for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment
- Submit your final package before the closing date of October 30, 2026
π‘ General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages as per new federal requirements
- Quantify your experience by stating hours worked per week for every position
- Clearly link your work experience to the duties mentioned in the announcement
- Submit all transcripts immediately; missing documents cannot be requested later
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure proper formatting and compliance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an in-person, on-site role at the Monterey Clinic in Marina, California.
Can I qualify with graduate school credits?
Yes, two full years of graduate study in psychology may be substituted for the required two years of specialized work experience.
Is the flu vaccine mandatory?
Yes, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment for all VHA health care personnel.
Do I need a license for this role?
No, this is a technician role, but it does require specific academic training in psychology.
Is the background check extensive?
Yes, as a federal employee, you will be subject to a standard suitability and fitness investigation.
External Resources
- β USAJOBS Application
- β Apply Online Portal
- β Application Status
- β OPM Qualification Standards
- β Accreditation Verification
- β Foreign Qualifications Recognition
- β Form I-9 Documents
- β Questionnaire Preview
- β USA Hire Resource Center
- β USAJOBS Help
- β Resume Limit Guidance
- β VA Benefits Information
- β Career Transition Resources
