Lead Mental Health Excellence: Psychology Program Manager at the San Diego VA
Are you a visionary clinical leader ready to make a profound difference in the lives of our nation's veterans? The San Diego VA Healthcare System is looking for a dynamic Psychology Program Manager to direct the Psychosocial Recovery and Rehabilitation Center (PRRC). This is a career-defining opportunity to combine high-level organizational leadership with compassionate, evidence-based clinical care.
Job Responsibilities
As the Psychology Program Manager, you will be the backbone of the PRRC. Your primary duties involve:
- Leadership & Direction: Managing the day-to-day clinical and administrative operations of the PRRC staff.
- Quality Assurance: Ensuring full compliance with Joint Commission (TJC), VHA, and federal standards.
- Strategic Growth: Setting goals, analyzing program data, and identifying resource needs to optimize unit performance.
- Supervisory Oversight: Mentoring staff, appraising performance, and managing disciplinary or administrative personnel matters.
- Clinical Care: Maintaining your own clinical privileges and providing care as required by the program needs.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet the following federal requirements:
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program (APA, PCSAS, or CPA).
- Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license in any U.S. State or Territory.
- Experience: At least three years of professional experience, with one year at the GS-13 level.
- Character: Must pass a background investigation and drug screening.
Salary and Compensation Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-14 |
| Salary Range | $177,286 - $228,000 per year |
| Loan Repayment | Eligible for EDRP (up to $200k) |
| Paid Time Off | Up to 50 days annually (including leave/holidays) |
Benefits
Working for the VA means more than just a paycheck. Our employees enjoy a comprehensive package designed to support their professional and personal lives, including federal pension contributions, 401k-style savings with employer matching, and industry-leading health insurance options that can follow you into retirement.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly delineate your management experience. Mention specific programs you have led or budgets you have managed.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure your transcript clearly indicates program accreditation. Missing this simple document often leads to automatic disqualification.
- Follow Procedures: The federal hiring process is strict. Do not assume the recruiter knows your background—write it out clearly in your CV.
If you are ready to pivot into a leadership role that honors your clinical roots while challenging your managerial skills, the San Diego VA is your destination. Apply today to start your journey with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why This Psychology Program Manager - Prrc Job Matters
Lead transformative mental health recovery programs in sunny San Diego as a Psychology Program Manager at the VA—where your clinical expertise directly impacts the lives of those who served our nation.
Psychology Program Manager - Prrc Job Overview
The San Diego VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated and experienced Psychology Program Manager to lead the Psychosocial Recovery and Rehabilitation Center (PRRC). This leadership role is perfect for a licensed psychologist looking to bridge clinical excellence with strategic management. You will direct a multidisciplinary team, implement evidence-based practices, and ensure our veterans receive the holistic, high-quality care they deserve. This position offers a competitive salary and the opportunity to work within a mission-driven organization focused on Whole Health and recovery-oriented care.
Requirements for Psychology Program Manager - Prrc
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology (APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited)
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Completed professional psychology internship
- At least three years of professional psychology experience, with one year at the GS-13 equivalent
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
- Ability to obtain and maintain a background/security clearance
Preferred Qualifications for Psychology Program Manager - Prrc
- Demonstrated expertise in evidence-based clinical practices
- Experience managing multidisciplinary mental health teams
- Proven track record in policy development and operational oversight
- Strong skills in data analysis and organizational performance monitoring
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- âś“Federal 401k (TSP) with agency matching up to 5%
- âś“Generous paid time off: 13-26 days annual leave plus 13 sick days and 11 paid holidays
- âś“Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- âś“Federal pension plan
- âś“Childcare subsidy for qualifying employees
đź’ˇ How to Apply Psychology Program Manager - Prrc Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychology Program Manager - Prrc Job
- Create a profile on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a comprehensive long-form resume or CV detailing your relevant experience.
- Gather necessary documentation: doctoral transcripts, license verification, and any applicable veterans' preference documents.
- Complete the online questionnaire specifically for this vacancy.
- Submit your full application package via the USAJobs application portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—highlight leadership and management experience, not just clinical duties.
- Ensure your transcript clearly shows the accreditation of your doctoral program.
- Double-check that all required documents (license, CV, transcripts) are uploaded before submitting.
- Use the 'Application Status' feature in your USAJobs account to track your progress.
- Review your responses to the online questionnaire to ensure they align with the KSAs listed in the job description.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance available for this role?
No, relocation incentives or permanent change of station (PCS) assistance are not authorized for this position.
What is the EDRP and am I eligible?
The Education Debt Reduction Program provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000. Eligibility is determined by the VA after appointment; you must apply within four months of your start date.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an onsite position at the San Diego VA Healthcare System.
How do I qualify for the EDRP?
Once hired, you will work with the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services office to submit an application within four months of your start date.
Is this role eligible for telework?
No, this position requires on-site presence at the San Diego facility to effectively manage the PRRC.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We operate under a mission to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional care that improves their health and well-being. Our Whole Health System approach focuses on personalized health plans, empowering veterans to take charge of their recovery and live their lives to the fullest.