Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA in San Diego

Are you a dedicated clinical psychologist looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans? The San Diego VA Healthcare System is seeking a passionate Staff Psychologist to join our specialized Addictions clinical team. This is a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive mental health services in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a Staff Psychologist, you will handle a diverse range of responsibilities focused on substance use and mental health care. Key duties include:

Providing individual, group, and family psychotherapy.
Conducting psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments.
Implementing evidence-based treatment plans for substance use disorders (SUD) and concurrent conditions like PTSD or depression.
Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, social workers, and nurses.
Engaging in clinical research and providing professional consultations.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet several core criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Education: Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA/CPA-accredited program.
Licensure: Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice.
Experience: Professional psychology internship completion.
Background: Must pass security/background investigations and a pre-employment physical.

Salary and Grade Overview

This position is structured within the GS-11 to GS-13 range. Salaries are competitive and based on your professional experience and the level of responsibility you assume.

Grade Level	Experience Required	Performance Focus
GS-11	Entry Level	Developing clinical skills
GS-12	1 Year Experience	Implementing treatment strategies
GS-13	2+ Years Experience	Expert consultation and independent practice

Benefits

The VA offers an exceptional benefits package that supports both your career and personal life. Highlights include the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement, robust health insurance, and comprehensive retirement planning.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Be explicit about your clinical experience, especially regarding substance use disorders.
Documentation is Key: Ensure your transcripts, licenses, and certifications are current and accessible.
Follow Procedures: The federal hiring process is precise; follow all prompts in the USAJOBS system to ensure your application is not rejected for missing info.

Join a team where your expertise directly impacts the recovery and quality of life for our Veterans. If you are ready for a challenging and rewarding career in San Diego, apply for this Staff Psychologist position today.

Why This Staff Psychologist - Substance Use Disorders Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served. Join our dedicated clinical team in San Diego as a Staff Psychologist specializing in Substance Use Disorders and empower Veterans to reclaim their health and well-being.

Staff Psychologist - Substance Use Disorders Job Overview

The San Diego VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our Mental Health Service. In this role, you will serve as a key member of our Addictions clinical team, providing critical diagnostic assessments, evidence-based psychotherapy, and compassionate care to Veterans facing substance use challenges and co-occurring mental health conditions. We are committed to a Whole Health System of care that prioritizes personalized treatment plans and strong therapeutic relationships.

Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Substance Use Disorders

U.S. Citizenship.
Hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA or CPA-accredited program.
Completion of an accredited professional psychology internship.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and background security investigation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Valid state-issued ID that is REAL ID compliant.

Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Substance Use Disorders

Experience in diagnosing and treating substance use disorders.
Proven proficiency in delivering evidence-based psychotherapeutic modalities, including individual, group, and family therapy.
Strong skills in psychological assessment, crisis intervention, and risk management.
Ability to collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary medical and mental health teams.
Experience in data collection, clinical research, or program evaluation.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for student loans).
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance packages.
✓Generous paid time off and federal holiday schedule.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Opportunities for professional development, workshops, and research.
✓Flexible work schedules (Monday-Friday, 0700-1700).
✓Telework options available.

💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Substance Use Disorders Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Substance Use Disorders Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare your long-form resume or CV, ensuring all relevant experience is documented.
Gather supporting documents such as your doctoral transcript, professional license, and DD-214 (if applicable).
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your application and all required documents before the closing date of October 30, 2026.
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and thorough in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your past duties.
Ensure your license status is clearly documented and current.
Verify that your education meets the specific accreditation requirements (APA/CPA) before applying.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Clearly highlight your experience with evidence-based treatments for substance use disorders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for loan repayment?

Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement for qualifying expenses up to $200,000.

What is the grade range for this role?

The position is open at the GS-11, GS-12, or GS-13 level, depending on your experience and qualifications.

Can I work remotely?

This is not a virtual position; however, telework options are available within the specified schedule requirements.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to those who have served. The VA Desert Pacific Health Care Network champions a Whole Health System, focusing on personalized care that empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being. By joining our team, you become part of a network that honors the promise to support Veterans, their families, and caregivers.