Advance Your Clinical Career: Staff Psychologist Opportunity at the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System
Are you a doctoral-level psychologist looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS) is actively seeking a passionate, skilled Staff Psychologist to join our team in Las Vegas. This role offers the opportunity to provide life-changing mental health support to those who have bravely served our country.
About the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System
Since 1972, the VASNHS has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive, whole-health care to over 240,000 Veterans in the region. We are committed to the promise of caring for our nation’s heroes, their families, and survivors. Working here means joining a collaborative, multidisciplinary team where your clinical expertise directly improves the quality of life for our patient population.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, you will perform a wide range of essential duties, including:
- Clinical Assessment: Diagnosing complex mental disorders and evaluating patients in medical, geriatric, and hospice settings.
- Evidence-Based Therapy: Delivering high-quality individual, family, and group psychotherapy.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside medical and nursing staff to develop comprehensive treatment and discharge plans.
- Consultation: Providing expert behavioral health guidance to colleagues and community partners.
- Capacity Assessments: Conducting professional evaluations for patients regarding medical decision-making and independent living capabilities.
Comparison of Benefits: Private Sector vs. VA
| Feature | Private Practice | VA Staff Psychologist |
|---|---|---|
| Student Loan Repayment | Rare | Up to $200k (EDRP) |
| Retirement | Variable | Federal Pension + 401k Matching |
| Paid Time Off | Self-Funded | 37-50 days total |
| Insurance | Employee Paid | Comprehensive Federal Coverage |
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Internship: Completion of a professional psychology internship.
- Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license in any U.S. State or Territory.
- Experience: At least two years of professional experience, with at least one year equivalent to the GS-12 level.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $134,833 to $175,285 per year, commensurate with experience. Regular salary increases and the federal step-pay structure ensure your compensation reflects your growth and tenure within the organization.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Use your resume to describe your duties in detail. Include specific populations you have worked with.
- Include Documentation: Have your official transcripts, proof of internship, and license information ready before starting the application.
- Follow the Questionnaire: The USAJOBS application is guided by a questionnaire; ensure every question is answered accurately to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the VA offer relocation assistance?
No, relocation assistance is not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, as a condition of employment, you will serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to assess your performance and fitness for the role.
What if I have questions about the application?
You may contact the Agency representative provided in the job listing or visit the USAJobs help center for technical guidance.
If you are a driven psychologist seeking to transition into a career where your clinical skill set supports a noble mission, the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System welcomes your application. Apply today to secure your future in a stable, rewarding federal role.
Why This Staff Psychologist Job Matters
Advance your clinical career while directly impacting the lives of those who served. Join the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System as a Staff Psychologist and qualify for up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
Staff Psychologist Job Overview
The VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join a mission-driven team in Las Vegas. This role provides comprehensive, evidence-based psychological services to a diverse Veteran population, including those in inpatient medical rehabilitation, geriatric care, palliative care, and hospice settings. You will function as an autonomous member of the medical staff, performing critical assessments and providing compassionate, whole-health care to those who have sacrificed for our nation.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship.
- Possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
- Subject to background and security investigations.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist
- Clinical experience working with geriatric or Veteran populations.
- Proficiency in performing home visits with clinical autonomy.
- Specialized experience in palliative care, nursing home environments, or hospice settings.
- Demonstrated experience in clinical teaching.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Traditional federal pension and 401k with agency matching.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months.
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible families.
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (transcripts, licenses, etc.).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided portal link.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for confirmation and status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your clinical experience, including volunteer work or internships.
- Double-check that your license is current, unrestricted, and easily verifiable.
- Submit all required documents, such as official transcripts and SF-50s (if applicable), to avoid disqualification.
- Be specific in your descriptions; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your previous duties.
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 up to $200,000, subject to VHA policy approval.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position requiring interaction with patients in a medical facility and the community.