Physical Therapist (EDRP Approved)

Summary

This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific eligibility requirements per VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) & eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after review of the EDRP application. Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply.

Duties

Major duties include, but are not limited to: Clinical Practice-Patient Evaluations Functions within the scope of physical therapy practice to perform physical therapy services, including evaluations, objective tests and measures, and providing treatment. Ensures patient scheduling requests are submitted in a manner as to not negatively impact other clinical staff yet meet the patient's needs. Reviews patient medical records to assess the appropriateness of physical therapy intervention, noting any potential risks or contraindications to treatment. Performs evaluations and assessments of medical/surgical conditions in the Outpatient, Acute Care, and CLC populations, including specialized objective tests and evaluations. Documents evaluations to include medical history, results, and interpretation of appropriate functional tests and measurements. Identifies when tests may need to be adapted because of complex disabilities to determine the level of function when using standardized and non-standardized tests. Performs thorough PT evaluations that address rehabilitation potential, behavior, motor skills, and psychosocial development at an age-appropriate level. Identifies patient's barriers to learning and develops strategies to overcome them to ensure accurate patient evaluation. Reviews and analyses the effectiveness of treatments and develop new treatment programs which apply current research and evidence-based practice. Demonstrates a full professional understanding of the theories or treatment of physical therapy and their proper application through the use of therapeutic physical rehabilitation and reconditioning procedures. Modifies treatment plan according to patient response to best meet established goals. Documents treatment progression and/or modifications according to Departmental and Medical Center standards. Recognizes adverse reactions to treatment and initiates effective action immediately. Ensures appropriate patient referrals and discharge planning in concert with the Physical Therapy and Medical Center staff. Adjusts and/or adapts durable medical equipment or assistive aids to meet the needs of the patient. Ensures the safety of patients, staff, and visitors by routinely monitoring. equipment and clinics for potential safety hazards. Participates and contributes to the advancement of knowledge and techniques related to Physical Therapy and other related topics. Investigates current concepts and scientific principles in Physical Therapy practice through literature reviews, the study of current research, clinical practice, assisting in research trials, and through attendance at continuing education courses and conferences. Orients, trains, and serves as a mentor to volunteers, aides, students, visitors, and incentive therapy workers who supplement and enhance patient treatment. Covers for absent staff members to ensure continuity of care. Administrative Submits patient scheduling requests in a manner as to not negatively impact other clinical staff yet meet the patient's needs. Maintains the flexibility of his/her appointment schedule as it may be required to allow time for unscheduled patients visits, and/or family/caregiver training, as needed. Responsible for reporting any unusual difficulties involving the treatment of patients directly to the Supervisor, Acting Supervisor, or Service Chief of PM&RS, and the referring provider as needed. Establishes and maintains appropriate Quality Assurance monitors relating to patient care and clinic operations. Documents patient performance, patient response, and functional achievement toward treatment goals for each therapy intervention and visit. Assures a high level of productivity and quality care while providing cost-effective treatments. Identifies, collects, and analyzes appropriate patient care information and documentation via peer reviews as assigned by the supervisor. Work Schedule: Monday through Friday; 8:00am - 4:30pm Telework: Not Authorized. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 52728-F/52729-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact VHAEDRPProgramSupport@va.gov , the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

Requirements

You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Qualifications and evaluation

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.

Education

Individuals must be a graduate of a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) accredited college or university. The CAPTE is the only accreditation agency recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) to accredit entry-level physical therapy programs. Verification of accredited programs may be obtained from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) at www.apta.org. If your school was accredited by Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) at the time of graduation but is no longer listed on the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) website, you must provide documentation of accreditation with your application packet. If your school has changed names, or is no longer in existence, you must provide this information in your application. Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.

How to apply

All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 10/21/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13087088. To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire. Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package. NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.

Required documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes: Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV) The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc. Cover Letter DD-214/ Statement of Service Disability Letter (Schedule A) Disability Letter (VA) License Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV) Other (1) PCS Orders Performance Appraisal Professional Certification Separation Notice (RIF) SF-15 SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action Transcript Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference. Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.

Additional information

Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status. VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement. Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.