Advance Your Clinical Career: Staff Psychologist in Neuropsychology at the San Diego VA
Are you a doctoral-level psychologist looking for a role that combines clinical excellence with a profound sense of mission? The San Diego VA Healthcare System is currently recruiting for a Staff Psychologist specializing in Neuropsychology. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of brain health, serving the men and women who have defended our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist in the Neuropsychology Assessment Unit, your work will be diverse and highly specialized. Your core duties include:
- Performing rigorous neuropsychological assessments.
- Developing and executing psychotherapeutic treatment plans.
- Providing feedback and actionable recommendations to Veterans and their families.
- Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, social workers, and medical staff.
- Supervising psychology trainees and participating in educational seminars.
- Conducting program evaluations and contributing to clinical research initiatives.
Comparison: Compensation and Growth
| Benefit Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $105,262 - $195,037 |
| Loan Repayment | EDRP up to $200,000 |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 Days per Year |
| Retirement | Pension + 401k Matching |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following federal requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Doctoral degree (PhD/PsyD) from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program.
- Internship: Completion of an accredited professional internship program.
- Licensure: Current, unrestricted state license to practice at the doctoral level.
- Proficiency: Must be proficient in English.
Salary Overview
This position is structured within the GS-11 to GS-13 pay scale, reflecting the depth of experience and responsibility required. The federal pay system ensures competitive compensation with regular step increases based on performance and tenure.
Benefits
The Department of Veterans Affairs offers an industry-leading benefits package designed to support your long-term success and work-life balance. Beyond a competitive salary, you will have access to generous leave accrual, federal health and life insurance, and a robust retirement strategy featuring both a pension and a government-matched 401(k).
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your experience in neuropsychological testing is front and center.
- Documentation is Key: Have your licensure and transcripts ready before you start the application.
- Follow Procedures: The federal hiring process is strict—ensure you follow every instruction in the USAJOBS announcement to avoid disqualification.
- Highlight Research: If you have clinical research experience, be specific about your contributions.
A career with the San Diego VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the highest standard of patient care. If you are ready to utilize your neuropsychological expertise to support our nation’s heroes, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Staff Psychologist - Neuropsychology Job Matters
Advance your career as a Staff Psychologist in Neuropsychology while directly impacting the lives of those who have served our nation. Join the San Diego VA Healthcare System and utilize your expertise in a rewarding, patient-centered environment.
Staff Psychologist - Neuropsychology Job Overview
The San Diego VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our Neuropsychology Assessment Unit at the Jennifer Moreno VA Medical Center. In this pivotal role, you will perform comprehensive neuropsychological assessments, provide evidence-based interventions, and offer critical consultations to a multidisciplinary team. This position offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative team of four neuropsychologists, contributing to patient care, training, and program development. We are committed to a Whole Health approach, focusing on personalized, comprehensive care for our Veterans.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Neuropsychology
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program.
- Successful completion of an APA or CPA-accredited professional psychology internship program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Neuropsychology
- Board certification in Clinical Neuropsychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) or eligibility for such certification.
- Experience in designing and implementing clinical research projects.
- Proven ability to provide professional advice and consultation in complex behavioral health scenarios.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with matching contributions.
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- ✓12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees.
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Neuropsychology Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Neuropsychology Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your long-form resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all required documents, including transcripts and licensure verification, before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) listed in the job description.
- Include both paid and relevant volunteer experience to build your competency profile.
- Double-check that all required documents, such as SF-50s or transcripts, are uploaded before the deadline.
- Ensure your licensure information is clearly detailed.
- Review your responses to the online questionnaire carefully before submission.
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 up to $200,000 for qualifying applicants.
What is the work schedule?
The role operates Monday through Friday, with a flexible schedule between 0700 and 1700.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?
Under specific conditions, non-licensed applicants meeting education and internship requirements may be appointed as a 'graduate psychologist' temporarily, provided they obtain full licensure within two years.
What if I have pending student loans?
We offer the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides significant financial relief for those who qualify.
Is this a virtual position?
No, this role requires on-site presence at the San Diego facility.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is committed to providing world-class, whole-person healthcare. At the San Diego VA, we embrace a culture of partnership, focusing on personalized health plans that extend into the Veteran's community. By joining our team, you become part of a network that prioritizes healing relationships and a supportive, multidisciplinary environment.