Become a Compensation & Pension Chief with the VA in Albuquerque
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for a dedicated medical leader to join the New Mexico VA Health Care System. If you are a physician passionate about delivering high-quality, compassionate care to those who have served our country, this role as a Compensation and Pension (C&P) Employee Health Section Chief is an exceptional career move. Situated in the heart of the Southwest, you will lead a team of professionals dedicated to evaluating the health and well-being of Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As the C&P Section Chief, your primary responsibility is to conduct thorough history and physical examinations of complex medical conditions. You will:
- Produce accurate medical reports for the Veterans Benefits Administration.
- Perform specialized registry examinations, including Gulf War and Environmental Hazards registries.
- Serve as a subject matter expert for the facility on disability processes.
- Engage in quality assurance procedures and process improvements to ensure the VHA remains a high-reliability organization.
Comparison of Rewards
| Benefit Feature | VA Physician Package |
|---|---|
| Salary Potential | Up to $315,000 |
| Annual Leave | 26 Days + 13 Sick Days |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401(k) Match |
| Liability | Full Protection w/ Tail Coverage |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship (with limited exceptions).
- Education: M.D. or D.O. from an accredited school.
- Licensure: Full and unrestricted license in any state or territory.
- Training: Completed accredited residency program.
- Screening: Must pass pre-employment physical and drug test.
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive pay structure ranging from $124,308 to $315,000 annually. Compensation is determined through a formal pay-setting process that considers your specific qualifications and experience.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA offers a robust total rewards package designed for long-term security. This includes 50-55 days of total paid time off, comprehensive health insurance plans that carry into retirement, and a traditional pension plan that rewards your commitment to federal service.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is tailored to reflect your clinical proficiency and your ability to work within administrative systems. Highlight any experience you have with disability assessments or complex medical documentation. Since this is a recurring announcement, applying early is highly recommended to ensure your application is among the first reviewed.
Working as a Physician at the New Mexico VA Health Care System is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide meaningful, life-changing care to Veterans. With a competitive salary, excellent work-life balance, and the beauty of Albuquerque at your doorstep, this role provides the perfect blend of professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Why This Physician (Compensation/Pension Chief) Job Matters
Advance your medical career while making a direct impact on the lives of those who served our nation. Join the New Mexico VA Health Care System as a Physician (Compensation & Pension Chief) and lead a vital mission in the vibrant landscape of Albuquerque.
Physician (Compensation/Pension Chief) Job Overview
The New Mexico VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Physician to serve as the Compensation and Pension (C&P) Employee Health Section Chief. This pivotal role involves conducting specialized medical examinations, interpreting diagnostic studies, and providing medical opinions that directly influence disability compensation for Veterans. Operating within a high-reliability organization, you will lead quality improvement initiatives, mentor clinical teams, and ensure the delivery of exceptional, compassionate care. This open-continuous announcement offers a stable, long-term opportunity to contribute to a world-class health system in a location celebrated for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Requirements for Physician (Compensation/Pension Chief)
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license from any U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Successful passage of pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Annual seasonal influenza vaccination (or approved exemption).
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
Preferred Qualifications for Physician (Compensation/Pension Chief)
- Prior experience with VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) protocols.
- Proficiency with DMA and CAPRI clinical systems.
- Demonstrated expertise in evaluating complex medical conditions.
- Experience in quality review and clinical process improvement.
- Strong leadership capabilities for section management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with annual performance bonuses.
- ✓Generous PTO including 26 days annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401(k) (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance programs.
- ✓Professional liability protection including tail coverage.
- ✓Potential for $1,000 annual CME reimbursement.
- ✓No mandatory employment contract; moonlighting flexibility.
💡 How to Apply Physician (Compensation/Pension Chief) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician (Compensation/Pension Chief) Job
- Create or log into your account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare your current C.V. or resume.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and required supporting documents before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status notifications regarding referral and interview scheduling.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your clinical experience relevant to disability evaluations.
- Double-check that all certifications and licenses are current and clearly stated.
- Review your application thoroughly for missing documentation as errors may cause disqualification.
- Save a copy of your submission and note the vacancy identification number (CBSX-13093550-27-BT).
- Utilize the VA for Vets resources to optimize your federal resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this role?
The role focuses on performing comprehensive medical examinations and providing medical opinions for the Veterans Benefits Administration to assist in disability compensation ratings.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
This position is telework-eligible, though specific duties require onsite presence in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
What is an open-continuous announcement?
It means the job posting remains open for an extended period, allowing applications to be accepted and processed on an ongoing basis as vacancies occur.
Can I keep my private medical practice?
The VA offers generous flexibility regarding moonlighting, as long as it does not conflict with your duties.
Do I need board certification?
Residency training is required; however, board certification may be a requirement for faculty status if you participate in academic training programs.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) operates on a mission to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have borne the battle. The VHA champions a Whole Health System, an integrative approach that treats the Veteran as a person, not just a set of symptoms. By joining this agency, you are stepping into a supportive, collaborative environment where your expertise directly contributes to the honor and well-being of America's Veterans.