Providing Exceptional Care: Orthotist-Prosthetist Opportunities at the VA
Are you a dedicated clinical professional looking to make a lasting difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed for our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently inviting passionate Orthotist-Prosthetists to join our team in Battle Creek, Michigan. This role offers the unique opportunity to combine advanced technical skills with compassionate, patient-centered care in a supportive federal environment.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be stationed in the Orthotic-Prosthetic Laboratory, where your work directly impacts patient mobility and independence. Key responsibilities include:
- Patient Assessment: Conducting comprehensive evaluations, including gait analysis, range of motion testing, and lifestyle assessments.
- Treatment Planning: Formulating custom orthotic and prosthetic treatment plans in collaboration with physicians and the healthcare team.
- Fabrication & Fitting: Using specialized materials and tools to create, adjust, and fit devices that meet specific anatomical and functional needs.
- Continuing Care: Monitoring patients over time, adjusting devices to changing conditions, and ensuring optimal function and comfort.
- Research & Education: Participating in clinical trials, research studies, and the education of trainees and residents.
Requirements
You must be a U.S. citizen and possess the following qualifications to be eligible:
- Education: A bachelor's degree or higher in orthotics and prosthetics from a CAAHEP-accredited program, or a bachelor's degree in another major with a post-graduate certificate in O&P from a CAAHEP-accredited program.
- Certification: Current board certification by the American Board for Certification (ABC) or the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC).
- Language: High proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Fitness: Ability to perform the physical requirements, including lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and performing fine motor tasks.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position spans grades GS-05 through GS-11. Below is the salary range and potential:
| Level | Experience/Requirement | Potential |
|---|---|---|
| GS-05 | Entry Level (Basic requirements) | Up to GS-11 |
| GS-07 | 1 Year Specialized Experience | Up to GS-11 |
| GS-09 | Graduate degree or 1 Year Exp. | Up to GS-11 |
| GS-11 | 1 Year Specialized Experience | Full Performance |
Note: The salary range for this position is $40,736 - $97,087 annually, depending on qualifications and grade.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package that supports both personal and professional well-being, including:
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Comprehensive Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB).
- Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Professional training and development opportunities.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly document your experience with patient assessment, clinical analysis, and the specific materials or fabrication techniques you have mastered.
- Include All Documents: Ensure you attach your board certification and educational transcripts.
- Utilize the Questionnaire: Take your time with the USAJOBS questionnaire, as it is a critical part of the initial screening process.
If you are a motivated Orthotist-Prosthetist ready to apply your technical expertise to help our Veterans, we encourage you to apply. You are not just building devices; you are building a foundation for a Veteran's improved quality of life. Apply today via the USAJOBS platform.
Why This Orthotist-Prosthetist Job Matters
Join the Veterans Health Administration as an Orthotist-Prosthetist and transform the lives of our nation's heroes through innovative care and custom clinical solutions.
Orthotist-Prosthetist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Orthotist-Prosthetist for a position within the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service in Battle Creek, Michigan. In this role, you will play a vital part in providing high-quality, patient-centered care by designing, fabricating, and fitting orthotic and prosthetic devices that directly improve the mobility, comfort, and quality of life for our Veterans. Working under the guidance of a supervisor, you will collaborate with an interdisciplinary healthcare team to develop and implement personalized treatment plans, ensuring each Veteran receives the support they need to live life to the fullest.
Requirements for Orthotist-Prosthetist
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Bachelor's degree or higher in orthotics and prosthetics from a CAAHEP-accredited program, OR a bachelor's degree in any major with a post-graduate certificate in orthotics/prosthetics from a CAAHEP-accredited program.
- Current board certification by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics (ABC) or the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Ability to pass a background security investigation and mandatory drug testing (where applicable).
- Adherence to annual influenza vaccination requirements for health care personnel.
Preferred Qualifications for Orthotist-Prosthetist
- Extensive knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics.
- Practical experience using hand and power tools for the fabrication of complex medical devices.
- Proficiency in the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS).
- Proven ability to conduct gait analysis and clinical patient assessments for diverse orthopedic conditions.
- Experience working within a hospital-based interdisciplinary treatment team.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Accrual of paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Supportive and inclusive work environment dedicated to Veteran care.
💡 How to Apply Orthotist-Prosthetist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Orthotist-Prosthetist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a detailed long-form resume or curriculum vitae.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Attach all required documentation, including transcripts, professional licenses, and Veterans' preference forms (DD-214, SF-15).
- Review your application for accuracy and submit it before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—detail your experience with patient assessments, device fabrication, and clinical outcomes.
- Ensure all educational documents and professional certifications are clearly attached.
- If claiming Veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 is legible and clearly shows service dates and character of service.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full performance level of this position?
The full performance level for this vacancy is GS-11.
Is travel required for this position?
This position may require occasional travel; please refer to the specific job details or contact the hiring agency.
Are there any physical requirements for this job?
Yes, the position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, frequent standing, walking, bending, and fine motor skills for hands-on patient contact.
What is the work schedule?
*A: The position follows a standard Monday through Friday schedule, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.*
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an on-site position located in Battle Creek, Michigan.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to America’s Veterans. As part of VISN 10, the Battle Creek facility advocates for a 'Whole Health' system. This philosophy empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being by creating personalized health plans, fostering healing relationships, and connecting patients back to their communities. As an Orthotist-Prosthetist, you will be at the heart of this mission.