Getting a VA job now

[silverway]

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In 2024 (summer to early fall), fresh out of fellowship, I applied to VA jobs and had good outcomes. I didn't end up taking a VA job at the time. Despite everything, I'm still interested in working at the VA and have been applying again, but I've been less successful, even though I'm applying for similar positions.

Is it harder to get a VA psychologist job right now, compared to 2024? Or is it more of a "me" problem (bad luck or otherwise)? I would love to get some perspective on the matter. Thanks!

 

[WisNeuro]

Heck, if you want arbitrary productivity measures, nonsensical performance reviews, buggy EHR software, and constant anxiety about whether or not you'll be RIFd depending on who is in office, you can come work for me. I'll even swear at you several times a week and rant about "communists" just so you can get some of that Veteran flavor.

 

[silverway]

Heck, if you want arbitrary productivity measures, nonsensical performance reviews, buggy EHR software, and constant anxiety about whether or not you'll be RIFd depending on who is in office, you can come work for me. I'll even swear at you several times a week and rant about "communists" just so you can get some of that Veteran flavor.

At this point, I'm willing to swap that for my current employer's assortment of problems. Sign me up!

 

[AsOneDoes]

I definitely think it's harder. So many open positions were cut in 2025, which greatly reduced the number of positions. My VA lost more than a handful of positions that hadn't been filled.

Despite all the VA frustrations, I'm happy at my VA. Job satisfaction definitely varies by VA.

 

[silverway]

I definitely think it's harder. So many open positions were cut in 2025, which greatly reduced the number of positions. My VA lost more than a handful of positions that hadn't been filled.

Despite all the VA frustrations, I'm happy at my VA. Job satisfaction definitely varies by VA.

Thanks for your perspective-- it's hard not to take a string of rejections to heart, but hearing my suspicions about the broader context being validated helps!