Lead the Future of Veteran Care: Psychology Program Manager Positions
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class care to those who have served our nation. As a Psychology Program Manager, you hold the keys to delivering life-changing readjustment counseling and mental health services. This is a high-impact leadership role within the Readjustment Counseling Service, designed for clinicians who are ready to step into a director-level capacity.
Job Responsibilities
As a Vet Center Director, your responsibilities are dual-faceted: clinical oversight and administrative leadership. You will:
- Supervise a multidisciplinary team including mental health professionals, social workers, and outreach staff.
- Manage the daily operations, including fiscal responsibility and budget development.
- Provide direct clinical assessment and specialized service planning for complex cases.
- Lead outreach initiatives to connect with Veterans in the community.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the facility and stakeholders, including Congressional representatives.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-14 position, candidates must meet rigorous professional standards, including:
- A doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program.
- Completion of a formal psychology internship.
- A current, unrestricted license to practice.
- At least three years of professional experience, with one year at the GS-13 level.
Comparison Table: Why Choose the VA?
| Feature | VA Benefits | Private Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement | Pension + 401K Match | Self-Funded |
| Student Loans | EDRP (Up to $200k) | Limited |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 Days | Varies |
| Mission | Dedicated to Veterans | Varies |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $107,446 - $139,684 annually. Beyond the salary, the federal benefits package is comprehensive, offering stability and work-life balance through paid leave, federal health insurance, and robust retirement plans.
How to Apply
- Prepare a clear, detailed resume using the provided VA template.
- Gather all required documents (transcripts, license verification).
- Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline.
If you are a licensed psychologist seeking to combine your clinical skill set with organizational leadership, this is the perfect opportunity. You will lead programs that provide critical support to Veterans and their families while enjoying the comprehensive benefits of a federal career. Apply today to start your journey with the VHA.
Why This Psychology Program Manager Job Matters
Lead a mission-driven team dedicated to supporting those who served. Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Psychology Program Manager and make a lasting impact on Veteran mental health and readjustment care.
Psychology Program Manager Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is seeking a dedicated Psychology Program Manager to serve as a Vet Center Director. This critical leadership role involves overseeing professional and administrative operations for readjustment counseling, community outreach, and clinical referral services. You will supervise a multidisciplinary team, manage operational budgets, and foster community partnerships to ensure Veterans and their families receive the compassionate, high-quality care they have earned. This position is available in Orange, CT; Silver Spring, MD; and Buffalo, NY.
Requirements for Psychology Program Manager
- 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 (or equivalent).
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- At least three years of professional experience, including one year equivalent to the GS-13 level.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and background/suitability investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Psychology Program Manager
- Demonstrated ability to set priorities and meet complex organizational deadlines.
- Expertise in evidence-based mental health practices and clinical guidelines.
- Proven experience in fiscal management and budgetary oversight.
- Strong communication skills for representing the agency to Congressional stakeholders.
- Ability to manage diverse, multidisciplinary clinical and administrative teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Comprehensive federal insurance options (health, vision, dental, life, long-term care).
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan and 401k-style thrift savings plan with employer matching.
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees.
💡 How to Apply Psychology Program Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychology Program Manager Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your long-form resume, CV, and official transcripts.
- Download the mandatory Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA careers site.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documents.
- Submit your application by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses your clinical and leadership experience.
- Attach all required documentation, including licensure and internship certifications, to avoid disqualification.
- Utilize the mandatory VA resume template provided in the job listing.
- Be specific about your volunteer and unpaid experience if it relates to the required competencies.
- Double-check that your license information is clear and current.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which may provide student loan reimbursement of up to $200,000 for qualified applicants.
Can I work remotely?
This is not a virtual position; it requires onsite leadership and coordination at a specific Vet Center location.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Within the VHA, the Readjustment Counseling Service (RCS) provides essential services at Vet Centers. These facilities serve as community-based hubs, helping combat Veterans and their families transition successfully from military service to civilian life. By joining this team, you are becoming part of a legacy that honors the promise to those who served.