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Va Disability Rater Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Physician Medicine & Rehab

Vista, CA · On-site

$1.2K - $1.4K/day

These evaluations will aid the VA in making informed disability decisions. Key Responsibilities ... Compensation: Daily rate ranging from $1,200 to $1,400, based on experience. Ideal Candidate ...

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Va Disability Rater information

Do VA raters work from home?

VA disability raters typically work remotely, evaluating claims and reviewing medical evidence from home. They often use specialized software and must meet federal employment standards, including security and confidentiality requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VA Disability Rater, and why are they important?

To thrive as a VA Disability Rater, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, federal regulations, and the VA disability claims process, often supported by relevant experience or education in healthcare or law. Familiarity with VA claims management systems, medical coding software, and proficiency in using databases is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear written communication are vital soft skills for evaluating complex case files and conveying decisions. These skills ensure accurate, fair, and timely adjudication of veterans' disability claims, directly impacting veterans' access to benefits.

What are VA Disability Raters?

VA Disability Raters are specialized employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) who review veterans’ medical records and service history to determine eligibility and assign disability ratings for compensation claims. They carefully evaluate all submitted documentation to ensure fair and accurate ratings based on the severity of the veteran's service-connected conditions. Their work directly impacts the benefits that veterans receive, making their role crucial in the VA disability compensation process.

What are some common challenges faced by VA Disability Raters, and how can they be managed effectively?

VA Disability Raters often encounter challenges related to managing a high caseload and ensuring accuracy while reviewing complex medical and military service records. Balancing thoroughness with efficiency is crucial, as errors can impact veterans' benefits and overall satisfaction. Effective time management, ongoing training, and open communication with medical experts and colleagues can help mitigate these challenges. Additionally, staying updated on policy changes and best practices is essential for maintaining high-quality service.

What is the difference between Va Disability Rater vs Va Claims Examiner?

AspectVa Disability RaterVa Claims Examiner
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in VA policiesHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in claims processing
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, reviewing disability claimsOffice setting, evaluating and processing claims
Employer & Industry UsageU.S. Department of Veterans AffairsU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

The Va Disability Rater primarily reviews and assigns disability ratings based on medical evidence, while the Va Claims Examiner processes and evaluates claims, ensuring proper documentation and compliance. Both roles require similar credentials and work within the VA, but their core responsibilities differ in focus: rating versus claims processing.

How much do VA raters make?

VA disability raters typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. The role often requires evaluating medical evidence and making disability determinations for veterans, with some positions offering additional compensation for supervisory or specialized duties.

How do you become a VA disability rater?

To become a VA disability rater, candidates typically need a background in healthcare, such as a medical or allied health degree, and must pass the VA's specialized training program. The process involves applying through the VA, completing required assessments, and demonstrating knowledge of disability evaluation procedures and regulations.

Do VA raters work today?

VA disability raters typically work during standard government office hours and may be available for remote or in-person evaluations. Their schedules can vary based on workload and location, but they generally operate on regular business days. Some assessments may be scheduled outside normal hours or on weekends if needed, depending on the case requirements.
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Infographic showing various Va Disability Rater job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
VES APP Opportunities (Nationwide)

VES APP Opportunities (Nationwide)

Trusted Medical

Sonora, CA

$58 - $65/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant (1099 Contract)

Trusted Medical, PLLC

Location: Multiple Locations 


About Us

Trusted Medical, PLLC is the clinical care delivery affiliate of Edera (www.edera.com). We specialize in serving Veterans by improving access to disability evaluations and separation health assessments required by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). J

In addition, Trusted Medical supports a range of local and national government occupational health programs, such as the Department of the Interior (DOI), U.S. Secret Service, and Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS).

Join our growing team and help serve those who have served our country.


Position Summary

This role primarily supports the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by conducting medical assessments for Veterans who are separating from military service or applying for VA disability benefits. The role mainly focuses on VA assessments, while also supporting Trusted Medical’s additional occupational health services across local and national government contracts, as needed.

The Advanced Practice Provider (NP or PA-C) performs in-person clinical evaluations and completes Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) used by the VA to determine benefit eligibility. These evaluations include focused clinical exams such as musculoskeletal assessments, range of motion testing, and documentation of findings.

This position requires strong clinical judgment, efficiency, and the ability to work independently with minimal oversight. Providers may also support new clinic openings, train new clinicians, provide coverage across existing sites, and support other occupational service contracts.


Schedule & Work Environment

  • Contract (1099) position
  • Up to 40 hours per week, based on business needs
  • Monday–Friday schedule
  • No weekends or holidays

Key Responsibilities

  • Deliver high-quality, Veteran-centered care during all patient interactions
  • Perform comprehensive clinical evaluations primarily for VA disability assessments, including completion of Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs)
  • Support Trusted Medical’s additional occupational health services across local and national government contracts, as needed
  • Accurately complete and submit all required documentation within 3 business days
  • Maintain high standards of customer service and operational excellence
  • Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams
  • Apply strong clinical assessment, documentation, and communication skills
  • Adapt to varying clinical workflows based on VA and occupational health service needs
  • Support onboarding and training of new providers as directed
  • Ability to support ancillary services (EKG, PFT, ABI, phlebotomy), when needed
  • Duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

  • Master’s degree from an accredited program
  • Active Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant certification (Family or Adult)
  • Active, unrestricted license in one or more of the following states:
    AZ, CA, CT, DC, FL, GA, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, NC, OH, OK, OR, PA, SD, TX, VA
  • Current BLS certification

Preferred Experience

  • At least 2 years in primary care, internal medicine, or occupational medicine
  • Experience working with Veterans, the VA, or federal healthcare systems

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong clinical skills in family or internal medicine
    • (e.g., musculoskeletal exams [~70% of cases], basic neurological exams)
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines consistently
  • Proven reliability, professionalism, and accountability
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Ability to adapt in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

Technical Skills

  • Proficiency with Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams)

Health Requirements

Required:

  • TB screening (within the last year)
  • Hepatitis B titers (within the last year) demonstrating immunity, or willingness to begin vaccination series

Strongly Recommended:

  • COVID-19 vaccination and boosters
  • MMR titers (within the last year)
  • Varicella titers (within the last year)
  • Tdap vaccination (within 10 years)
  • Current seasonal influenza vaccination

Compensation

  • Hourly rate: $58- $65 hourly (commensurate with experience and locality)