Chief of Psychiatry

The VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS) is seeking an experienced Psychiatrist to serve as our Chief of Psychiatry. Reporting directly to the Associate Chief of Staff for Mental Health (ACOSMH), the Chief will lead a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary team dedicated to delivering high-quality psychiatric care to our nation’s Veterans.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide clinical oversight for all Psychiatry Service physicians and providers.
• Lead the full spectrum of acute and intensive psychiatric services, (e.g. outpatient, inpatient, acute, intensive, and emergency psychiatry, as well as Neuromodulation (TMS and Ketamine).
• Oversee training programs for UC San Diego (UCSD) psychiatry residents, fellows, medical students, and trainees in psychology and pharmacy.
• Balance administrative leadership with academic engagement, teaching, and/or research, with 10–40% of time dedicated towards clinical care.
• Guide performance improvement efforts aligned with VASDHS and Mental Health Service Line goals.
• Supervise Section Chiefs and support staff, fostering collaboration across departments and with senior leadership.
• Promote and manage VA-approved research activities, supporting academic advancement and innovation in care delivery.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of psychiatric care at a major VA medical center, contribute to cutting-edge research, and mentor the next generation of mental health professionals.

We offer:

• $320,000 - $336,000 compensation package based on training, experience, and local labor market.
• Guaranteed salary increases.
• CME: up to $1,000/year.
• Malpractice: VHA physicians are covered under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
• No employment contracts, noncompete clauses, or restrictive covenants.
• 26 days paid vacation; 13 days paid sick time; 11 paid federal holidays.
• Federal Retirement Pension and separate 401K with 5% agency match.
• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.

To explore this opportunity further, please forward copy of your Curriculum Vitae to Jacob (Jay) Colón @ Jacob.Colon@va.gov.