Empowering Veterans: Careers in Occupational Therapy at the Western New York VAMC
Are you a dedicated Occupational Therapist looking to make a lasting impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is searching for a passionate professional to join the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service at the Western New York VAMC in Buffalo. This position is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to serve those who have served our country by providing high-quality, whole-health rehabilitative care.
Job Responsibilities
As an Occupational Therapist, your role is multifaceted. You will:
- Perform comprehensive assessments to evaluate patient functional and occupational roles.
- Develop and implement creative treatment plans tailored to individual physical and psychosocial needs.
- Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to coordinate care transitions.
- Procure and modify adaptive equipment, such as splints and power mobility devices, to improve patient independence.
- Supervise and mentor occupational therapy students, shaping the next generation of clinicians.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet specific federal standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Degree in OT from an accredited program |
| Certification | Current NBCOT certification |
| Licensure | Current, unrestricted state license |
| Physical | Must pass a pre-employment physical exam |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $64,543 to $121,680 per year. The exact grade level (GS-9 through GS-12) will be determined based on the applicant's experience, education, and credentials.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health Insurance: Choice of various Federal Employees Health Benefits plans.
- Retirement: Excellent pension options and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, including annual and sick leave, plus 11 federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific clinical experiences that align with the duties of an OT in a medical setting.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure your transcript, license, and (if applicable) military records are uploaded in a readable format.
- Follow Instructions: Missing a single document or failing to answer the questionnaire fully can lead to your application being excluded.
If you are ready to use your clinical expertise to improve the lives of our Veterans, we encourage you to apply. This role offers professional growth, competitive pay, and the intrinsic reward of working with a heroic population in Buffalo, New York.
Why This Occupational Therapist Job Matters
Transform lives as an Occupational Therapist within the VA, providing dedicated, life-changing care to the heroes who served our nation.
Occupational Therapist Job Overview
The Western New York VA Medical Center in Buffalo is seeking a compassionate and skilled Occupational Therapist to join our Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation team. This role offers the opportunity to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care to a diverse Veteran population, helping them regain independence and enhance their quality of life. As a vital member of our interdisciplinary team, you will design and implement creative treatment plans, educate patients and families, and help shape the future of rehabilitative care within the VA healthcare system.
Requirements for Occupational Therapist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current NBCOT certification as an Occupational Therapist
- Full, current, and unrestricted state licensure to practice occupational therapy
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Ability to complete a 1-2 year trial period of employment
Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist
- At least one year of experience in an outpatient occupational therapy setting
- Proven expertise in modifying assessments and treatment plans for diverse patient needs
- Strong skills in fabricating and adjusting adaptive equipment and orthoses
- Experience in mentoring and supervising occupational therapy students
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Robust retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on total federal service
💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Occupational Therapist Job
- Log in or create an account on the USAJobs portal
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire
- Upload all required documentation, including your CV or resume and proof of licensure
- Review your application package for accuracy and completeness
- Submit your application before the closing date of November 5, 2026
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is a long-form version that clearly details your clinical experience, including paid and volunteer work.
- Be specific in your job descriptions; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your previous duties.
- Verify that your licensure and certifications are active and clearly documented in your submission.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD-214 or SF-15 is attached to avoid delays in your application review.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full performance level of this position?
The full performance level for this Occupational Therapist role is GS-12, though selections may be made at the GS-9, GS-11, or GS-12 levels based on qualifications.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Western New York VAMC and does not offer telework or virtual options.
Are there mandatory vaccinations for this role?
Yes, all Department of Veterans Affairs healthcare personnel are required to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We provide care to over 9 million Veterans annually. Joining our team means committing to President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Our Buffalo facility is known for its interdisciplinary approach to patient care, where OTs, PTs, physicians, and nurses collaborate to ensure the best outcomes for every Veteran.