This position is located in the Audiology and Speech Pathology Service at the VA Palo Alto Healthcare System. The duties and responsibilities are carried out throughout the healthcare system including all clinical and patient care areas involved with the service. The speech-language pathologist plans, conducts, and coordinates all aspects of diagnostic assessments, evaluations, therapeutic and rehabilitative services for speech, language, voice, fluency, cognitive, and swallowing disorders.
Summary
This position is located in the Audiology and Speech Pathology Service at the VA Palo Alto Healthcare System. The duties and responsibilities are carried out throughout the healthcare system including all clinical and patient care areas involved with the service. The speech-language pathologist plans, conducts, and coordinates all aspects of diagnostic assessments, evaluations, therapeutic and rehabilitative services for speech, language, voice, fluency, cognitive, and swallowing disorders.
This vacancy announcement is open to current, permanent employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs only. A most recent, non-award SF-50 must be provided to be considered for this position. External applicants must apply under CBSW-11421686-22-HL to be considered for this position.
Major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
Uses knowledge and skill in applying, a wide range of evidence-based theories, principles, and methodologies in the practice of speech-language pathology to a wide range of populations in the acute, critical care, out-patient and telehealth settings.
Incorporates new clinical procedures sufficient to perform clinical services independently.
Has knowledge and skill with speech-language pathology instrumentation to include rigid and flexible endoscopes as well as modified barium swallow equipment.
Exercises independent clinical judgment and adapts clinical procedures and techniques to accommodate age-specific and unique patient conditions, needs, and expectations.
Documents in the medical record: evaluates, diagnosis and clinical opinion, treatment plans, outcomes of treatment, changes in functional status, and patient/family education.
Serve as a direct supervisor for Speech Pathology Trainees/Clinical Fellows.
Participates in developing guidelines and protocols, new patient programs, and evaluation of existing programs. Actively participates in performance improvement projects.
Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 3 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
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).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.
Qualifications
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
Education. A master's degree or its equivalent in speech-language pathology, communication disorders, or a directly related field from an accredited college or university. "Accredited" means a college or university [recognized] by a regional accreditation organization and a speech-language pathology academic program [recognized] by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Licensure. For those grades that require licensure (GS-12 and above), the incumbent must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license in a State, Territory, Commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
The S-LP must maintain full, current, and unrestricted licensure/registration.
Non-licensed applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for S-LP licensure may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate S-LP under the authority of 38 U.S.C. § 7405 (a) (1) (D). Failure to obtain licensure during that period is justification for termination of the temporary appointment. This may result in termination of employment. [Individuals appointed as graduate S-LPs may not be promoted to the GS-12 level without being fully licensed.
The requirement for licensure may be waived by the Under Secretary for Health or designee in VHA Central Office for individuals engaged in research or academic assignments involving no direct patient care duties, in accordance with current activities.
A S-LP who has, or ever has had his/her speech-language pathology license revoked, suspended, denied, restricted, limited, or issued/placed on a probationary status may be appointed only in accordance with the provisions in Chapter 3, section B, paragraph 16 of this part.
Loss of Credential. An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain licensure/certification/registration within the required time frame, or who fails to maintain the required licensure/certification/registration must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment.
Knowledge of Contemporary Professional Speech-Language Pathology Practice. To be creditable, the experience must have required the use of knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (also referred to as "core competencies") associated with contemporary professional speech-language pathology practice. This knowledge may be evidenced by one or more of the following:
At least 1 year of active professional practice or its equivalent. Active professional practice means paid or non-paid employment as a professional S-LP engaged in the practice of speech-language pathology as defined by the appropriate licensing board.
Academic course work leading to a doctoral degree in speech-language pathology, communication disorders and sciences, or a related field.
Quality of Experience. Experience is only creditable if it is both of the following:
Work as a professional speech-language pathologist related to the position to be filled; and
The work is at a level comparable to speech-language pathology experience at the next lower grade level.
Part-Time Experience. Part-time experience as a professional speech-language pathologist is credited according to its relationship to the full-time work week. For example, a speech-language pathologist employed 20 hours a week, or on a 1/2-time basis, would receive 1 full-time workweek of credit for each 2 weeks of service.
Grade Determinations:
GS-9
Education and Experience
None beyond the basic requirements.
Assignment
Employees at this level serve in a speech-language pathologist career development position.
GS-11
Education and Experience.
Completion of 1 year of professional experience as an S-LP equivalent to the next lower level, [or] 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a doctoral degree, or doctoral degree in speech-language pathology, communication disorders, or a directly related field. For positions involved in research S-LP assignments involving no direct patient care, no additional education or professional experience is required beyond those identified at the GS-9 level.
In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
1. Knowledge of principles and techniques used in speech pathology;
2. Ability to evaluate and interpret data;
3. Ability to communicate information effectively to patients and significant others;
4. Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing;
5. Ability to function as a constructive member of a team;
6. Knowledge of principles and techniques in diagnosis and treatment of dysphagia;
7. Knowledge of, and ability to develop and implement, comprehensive treatment plans.
Assignment
Staff Speech-Language Pathologist. Staff S-LPs at this grade level provide assessment and treatment intervention. If unlicensed, the individual must function under the supervision of a licensed S-LP.
GS-12
Licensure
The incumbent must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license in a State, Territory, Commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
Education and Experience
Completion of 1 year of professional experience comparable to the next lower level and possession of a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice speech-language pathology. For positions engaged in research S-LP assignments involving no direct patient care, completion of a doctoral degree in speech-language pathology, communication disorders, or a related field is fully qualifying.
In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Ability to develop coherent treatment strategies.
2. Ability to incorporate new clinical procedures sufficient to perform clinical services independently.
3. Ability to conduct assessments, provide treatment interventions, and provide consultation to other health care professionals.
4. Knowledge of instrumentation used in speech-language pathology.
5. Knowledge of principles and techniques used in alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) systems, diagnosis and treatment of dysphagia, and cognitive-communication disorders.
6. Knowledge of principles and techniques used in voice disorders including alaryngeal and trach/ventilator-dependent patients.
7. Ability to perform functions associated with contemporary speech-language pathology practice.
Assignment
Speech-language pathologists at this grade level are considered to be at the full performance level. Staff Speech-Language Pathologist. Staff S-LPs at this grade level must demonstrate professional knowledge of, and skill in applying, a wide range of theories, principles, and methodologies of the practice of speech-language pathology to a wide range of populations. [Individuals may perform ancillary assignments, including program management duties on an occasional basis, where the complexity and amount of work is not substantial (less than 25% of the time).
References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/39, PART II, APPENDIX G30. SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST QUALIFICATION STANDARD, GS-665, Veterans Health Administration dated August 24, 2010.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-12. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-09 to GS-12.
Physical Requirements: Light lifting and carrying, up to 15 pounds. May be reaching above shoulders. Requires walking standing, hearing (aid permitted), and repetitive computer use.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
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: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
Additional information
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.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, résumé, 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.
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.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to 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
License
OF-306
VA FM 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations form: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf
Resume
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
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 03/31/2022 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11415498.
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.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Palo Alto VA Medical Center
3801 Miranda Avenue
Palo Alto, CA 94304
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation notification by e-mail. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by e-mail. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to 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
License
OF-306
VA FM 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations form: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf
Resume
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
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 03/31/2022 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11415498.
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.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Palo Alto VA Medical Center
3801 Miranda Avenue
Palo Alto, CA 94304
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation notification by e-mail. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by e-mail. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
