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Federal Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Psychologist

Grafton, OH · On-site

$115K/yr

DRC is a "qualifying employer" for purposes of the federal Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness ... Qualifications License to practice psychology as issued by Ohio State Board of Psychology per ...

Psychologist

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$40K - $47K/yr

PSYCHOLOGIST DEPARTMENT: District REPORTS TO: Exceptional Services Coordinator FLSA STATUS: Exempt ... Assists in identifying students with disabilities according to federal and state eligibility ...

Psychologist

Bronx, NY · On-site +1

$100K - $185K/yr

The staff psychologist duties include: assessment and using the most appropriate psychotherapeutic ... Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be ...

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Federal Psychologist information

See salary details

$11K

$92.8K

$398.5K

How much do federal psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal psychologist in the United States is $92,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some unique challenges faced by federal psychologists when working with diverse populations across government agencies?

Federal psychologists often work with a wide range of individuals from various backgrounds, including military personnel, veterans, inmates, and federal employees. This diversity requires strong cultural competence and adaptability, as each population may present unique mental health needs and stressors. Additionally, federal psychologists must navigate complex regulations, security clearances, and documentation protocols specific to government agencies. Balancing clinical responsibilities with administrative duties and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams are also common aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Psychologist, you need a doctoral degree in psychology, state licensure, and expertise in clinical assessment and evidence-based interventions. Familiarity with psychological testing tools, electronic health records, and federal case documentation systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and the ability to handle confidential information sensitively set top candidates apart. These skills are crucial for providing effective mental health services and supporting the well-being of diverse federal populations in often complex environments.

What is a federal psychologist?

A federal psychologist is a licensed mental health professional who works for a federal government agency, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, or the Federal Bureau of Prisons. They provide psychological assessments, therapy, crisis intervention, and consultation services to individuals such as military personnel, veterans, inmates, or federal employees. These psychologists often address issues like trauma, stress, substance abuse, and mental health disorders, and may also be involved in policy development, research, and program evaluation. Their work ensures the psychological well-being and safety of those served by federal institutions.

What is the difference between Federal Psychologist vs Clinical Psychologist?

AspectFederal PsychologistClinical Psychologist
CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), licensure, often additional federal certificationsDoctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), licensure, often state-specific
Work EnvironmentFederal agencies, government facilities, VA hospitalsHospitals, private practices, clinics, mental health facilities
Employer & IndustryFederal government, Department of Veterans Affairs, militaryPrivate sector, healthcare, mental health clinics
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Federal Psychologists primarily work within government agencies, providing mental health services to specific populations like veterans or military personnel. Clinical Psychologists work in diverse healthcare settings, offering therapy and assessment services to the general public. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and employer types differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Federal Psychologist jobs? Cities with the most Federal Psychologist job openings:
What states have the most Federal Psychologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Psychologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Federal Psychologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,813 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Clinical Psychologist (Advanced Care Level Psychologist)

Clinical Psychologist (Advanced Care Level Psychologist)

Federal Bureau of Prisons

Rochester, MN

$97K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Federal Bureau Of Prisons rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 41 rated prisons


Job description

Job Description: Summary Corrections professionals who foster a humane and secure environment and ensure public safety by preparing individuals for successful reentry into our communities. Learn more about this agency Summary Corrections professionals who foster a humane and secure environment and ensure public safety by preparing individuals for successful reentry into our communities. Learn more about this agency Overview Help Accepting applications Posted 03/27/26 · Apply by 07/31/26 Due by 11:59 p.m. ET on July 31, 2026 Location Rochester, MN 1 vacancy No matching locations found. Work site optionsTelework eligibleNoRemote jobNoRelocation expenses reimbursed No Salary $97,582 - $150,852 per year Pay scale & grade GS 12 - 13Promotion potential13 Learn more about pay scale and grade Pay scale and grade determines the salary of the job. Work scheduleFull-timeTravel RequiredOccasional travel - Travel may be required for training and/or work related issues. Appointment typePermanent Occupations and job series 0180 Psychology Supervisory statusNoFederal service typeThis job is in the Competitive Service Represented by a unionNo Drug testYesSecurity clearanceOther Announcement numberNCR-2026-0243Control number862836800 This job is open to Help The public U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S. Clarification from the agency • THIS IS A DELEGATED EXAMINING ANNOUNCEMENT OPEN TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS. • Duty Location: FMC Rochester, MN • NOTE: A 50% RECRUITMENT INCENTIVE WILL BE PAID TO SELECTEE(S) WHO MEETS THE CRITERIA FOR RECRUITMENT BONUSES. • NOTE: A 25% RETENTION INCENTIVE WILL BE PAID TO SELECTEE(S) WHO MEETS THE CRITERIA FOR RETENTION INCENTIVES. Duties Help Responsible for providing comprehensive psychological services to inmates who have been identified as needing closer supervision or a greater level of care than afforded other general population inmates due to a moderate, severe or acute mental illness, to include but not limited to psychosis, mania and/or major depression. Primary responsibility of making professional decisions concerning inmates under his/her care, with consultative supervision from the Chief Psychologist for clinical decisions, peer clinical consultation with the provider of psychiatric services, and administrative issue consultation with the Chief Psychologist, Health Services Administrator, Associate Warden of Programs, and the Warden. May be required to assume the responsibilities of another psychologist or of the Chief Psychologist in that individual's absence and may provide technical supervision and guidance for institution related training programs. Serves as a resource to other psychologists as well as other staff members including physicians, psychiatrists, physician assistants, nurses, unit and case managers, correctional services staff and the administration regarding mental health diagnosis and treatment, and the clinical case management of the seriously mentally ill (SMI) inmates. Along with all other correctional institution employees, incumbent is charged with responsibility for maintaining security of the institution. The staff correctional responsibilities precede all others required by this position and are performed on a regular and recurring basis. Requirements Help Conditions of employmentU.S. Citizenship is Required.See Special Conditions of Employment Section.Selective Service Requirement: http://www.sss.gov Career Transition Programs (CTAP or ICTAP): These programs apply to Federal and/or DOJ employees who meet the definition of surplus or displaced from a position in the competitive service. To receive selection priority for this position, you must:1. Meet CTAP or ICTAP eligibility criteria;2. Be rated well-qualified for the position, scoring at least half of the total possible points for the vacancy KSAs or competencies; and3. Submit the appropriate documentation to support your CTAP or ICTAP eligibility:A copy of the agency notice (i.e., separation notice or agency RIF letter),Most recent performance appraisal, andMost recent SF-50 showing current/former position, grade, promotion potential, and duty location.See USAJOBS' Career Transition Programs for more information. NOTE: Applicants claiming CTAP or ICTAP eligibility must complete all assessment questions to be rated under the established ranking criteria. EEO Statement/Policy: The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor. More information can be found here: https://www.justice.gov/jmd/media/1425556/dl?inline.Qualifications To be considered for the position, applicants must meet the following: Basic Requirements:Satisfactory completion of all the requirements for a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) directly related to full professional work in clinical psychology is required. NOTE:Applicants may have received this degree in either clinical or counseling psychology.ANDIn addition to the basic requirements, applicants must have: Education:GS-12 and GS-13: There is no substitution of education for specialized experience for this position. Experience:GS-12 and GS-13: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and complexity to the next lower grade level. To be creditable, this experience must have equipped the applicant with the particular qualifications to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is typically be in or related to the position to be filled. Some examples of the qualifying experience are: GS-12:Experience monitoring inmates with mental illnesses.Experience conducting psychological assessments and preparing reports related to the assessment of mentally ill individuals.Experience in treatment and care of inmates with mental illness and suicide prevention.Experience utilizing clinical skills to manage disruptive patients and providing crisis intervention. GS-13:Experience in conducting psychological evaluations of mentally ill inmates including administration, scoring and interpretation of a wide range of personality assessment instruments, intellectual and cognitive assessment procedures and neuropsychological measures.Experience in developing individualized treatment plans.Experience in providing supervision and training for less experienced staff psychologists.Experience in determining the appropriate care level designation for mentally ill inmates. ANDSelective Placement Factor:GS-12 and GS-13: Applicants applying for this position MUST also possess the following Selective Factor. In the event that you do not possess the Selective Factor, you will be found ineligible for the position.Applicants must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a State, Territory, Commonwealth of the United States (e.g., Puerto Rico), or the District of Columbia. NOTE: All applicants must electronically upload a copy of their license at the time they apply to the vacancy announcement. The documentation provided must show the expiration date of the license. Failure to provide this documentation will result in loss of consideration for this position. If applicable, credit will be given for paid and unpaid experience. To receive proper credit, you must show the actual time (such as the number of hours worked per week) spent in activities. **Your eligibility for consideration will be based on your responses to the questions in the application.** Education See Qualifications Section for education requirements, if applicable. ONLY if education is a requirement/substitution for specialized experience, applicant MUST upload legible transcripts as verification of educational requirement. Transcripts MUST be uploaded and electronically linked from USAJOBS at the time you apply and MUST include identifying information to include School Name, Student Name, Degree and Date Awarded (if applicable). All academic degrees and coursework must be completed at a college or university that has obtained accreditation or pre-accreditation status from an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools that meet this criteria, Click Here. Foreign Education: For information regarding foreign education requirements, please see Foreign Diploma and Credit Recognition at the U.S. Department of Education website: Recognition of Foreign Qualifications. If you are selected for this position and qualified based on education (i.e. basic education requirement and/or substitution of education), you will be required to provide an OFFICIAL transcript prior to your first day on duty. Additional information Although 5 U.S.C. 3307 established a maximum entry age for original appointment to a position in a Bureau of Prisons institution, Applicants can be considered up to age 39. If you are above the maximum entry age and have prior federal law enforcement coverage, you MUST submit an SF-50 to verify prior coverage. Qualified Preference Eligible Veterans may be exempt from meeting the maximum age. Please refer to the Required Documents Section for the appropriate documentation to submit to validate veteran eligibility.Special Conditions of Employment Section: The incumbent is subject to geographic relocation to meet the needs of the agency. Appointment is subject to satisfactory completion of a pre-employment and panel interview, urinalysis, physical, and background investigation. All applicants are subject to, and must satisfactorily pass all screening requirements in relation to National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and credit check. All applicants not currently working in an institution will be required to complete a qualification inquiry regarding convictions of misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence in order to be authorized to carry a firearm. Successful completion of the "Introduction to Correctional Techniques", three-week training course at Glynco, Georgia is required. Additional selections may be made if vacancies occur within the life of the certificate. NOTE: A 50% RECRUITMENT INCENTIVE WILL BE PAID TO SELECTEE(S) WHO MEETS THE CRITERIA FOR RECRUITMENT BONUSES. NOTE: A 25% RETENTION INCENTIVE WILL BE PAID TO SELECTEE(S) WHO MEETS THE CRITERIA FOR RETENTION INCENTIVES. Expand Hide additional information Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Benefits Help 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. Your application will be evaluated and rated under DOJ's Category Rating and Selection Procedures. Based upon your responses to the assessment questions during the application process, your application will be placed into one of three categories: Best Qualified, Highly Qualified, or Qualified. Applications will be reviewed from the top quality category. Your resume and supporting documentation will be used to determine whether you meet the job qualifications listed in this announcement. If you are found qualified for this job, your resume and supporting documentation will be compared to the responses you provided on the online assessment. NOTE: Candidates within the top quality category and who are eligible for veterans preference will receive selection priority over non-veteran preference eligibles.If you are entitled to veterans preference, you should indicate the type of veterans preference you are claiming on your resume. Although veterans preference points are not assigned under the category rating procedures described under "How You Will Be Evaluated", veterans preference eligibles are listed ahead of non-veterans within each category for which they are qualified. Preference eligibles who meet the minimum qualification requirements and who have a compensable service-connected disability of at least 10 percent must be listed in the highest quality category (except in the case of scientific or professional positions at the GS-9 level or higher). As noted above, an agency may not select a non-preference eligible in lieu of a preference eligible in the same category unless there are grounds for a passover and the agency has complied with the passover procedures at 5 U.S.C. § 3318(b). What Competencies/Knowledge, Skills and Abilities are Required for this Position? The following Competencies/Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA's) are required: GS-12 and GS-13:Ability to oversee and supervise a mental health treatment program.Skill in conducting individual and group psychotherapy.Ability to conduct psychological assessments.Ability to make sound decisions and act quickly in critical circumstances.Knowledge of the research and literature associated with treatment of the mentally ill.You may preview questions for this vacancy. Benefits Help 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. Required documents Required Documents Help Failure to provide legible required documents and/or follow the prescribed format often results in removal from consideration. If uploading documentation, do not identify/save your documents utilizing a special character such as %, #, @, etc. Documentation should be identified/saved as VA Letter, DD-214, or Transcripts. Veterans' Preference Documentation:Failure to submit all required documents at the time of application will result in the loss of claimed preference eligibility.DD-214: Veterans MUST provide a DD-214 demonstrating that they have been discharged or released from active duty under honorable conditions (i.e., the individual must have received either an honorable or general discharge).SF-15: If you

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About Federal Bureau of Prisons

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), based in Washington, DC, US, is a crucial agency operating in the public sector, particularly under the U.S. Department of Justice. This government agency is dedicated to ensuring public safety by ensuring the proper management and control of federal offenders. Its official website is bop.gov. The Bureau’s services are instrumental in the implementation of federal criminal laws, which resulted from the establishment of the agency in 1930 to provide more progressive and humane care for federal inmates, professionalize the prison service, and ensure consistent and centralized administration of federal prisons.

Industry

Law courts

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1930

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