Associate Chief of Staff / Research and Development (Psychologist)

$178,717 - $221,900/Yr

United States Department of Veterans Affairs - Asheville, NC

Part-time,Full-time

Onsite - Asheville, NC

Administration of Human Resource Programs

About the position

The Associate Chief of Staff for Research and Development (ACOS/R&D) is a pivotal role within the Research and Development Service under the Office of the Chief of Staff (COS) at the Western North Carolina VA Health Care System (WNCVAHCS). This position is designed to collaborate closely with the COS and Deputy Chief of Staff (DCOS) to formulate the goals and objectives of the Research program. The Charles George VA Medical Center is seeking a qualified Psychologist, Physician, or Pharmacist to fill this role. The ACOS/R&D will be responsible for overseeing a complex array of scientific and administrative activities that are essential for advancing the research program. This includes initiating policies and procedures, planning and directing research activities, and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. The ACOS/R&D will also serve as a mentor to research investigators, assisting them with proposal development and budget preparations to meet the requirements of the Research and Development Committee. In addition to administrative responsibilities, the ACOS/R&D will lead the administrative team in identifying and resolving problems, improving programs, and ensuring compliance with mandated research policies. The role requires strong leadership skills, as the ACOS/R&D will provide guidance and mentoring to academic faculty, particularly junior faculty, and will represent the Research and Development program to senior management at various levels. The position is full-time, with a work schedule from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and requires occasional travel (25% or less). This is a permanent position with no promotion potential, and it is not eligible for telework or remote work. The successful candidate will be expected to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program and comply with COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

Responsibilities

• Formulate goals and objectives for the Research program in collaboration with the COS and DCOS.
• Initiate policies, procedures, and organizational structures necessary to achieve stipulated goals.
• Plan, develop, and direct complex scientific and administrative activities to advance the research program.
• Oversee all administrative and budgetary operations of the Research Service.
• Supervise and evaluate Service personnel through subordinate supervisors.
• Ensure compliance with VISN- and VACO-mandated research policies.
• Mentor and assist research investigators with proposal development and budget preparations.
• Lead the administrative team in performance of varied functions, problem identification, and resolution.
• Develop program resources including facilities, personnel, and funding.
• Represent the Research and Development program to senior management and advocate for needed resources.
• Serve on governance committees as an ex-officio board member of the R&D Committee.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program.
• Completion of a professional psychology internship training program accredited by APA or CPA.
• Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
• At least four years of experience as a professional psychologist, with at least one year equivalent to the GS-14 grade level.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise and manage a large group of professional staff effectively.
• Skill in interpersonal relationships, including conflict resolution and collaboration with supervisors.

Nice-to-haves

• Extensive experience in writing for grants and working cooperatively with the Office of Research and Development.
• Experience in leading research programs and securing research funding.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package as a federal employee.
• Access to a range of benefits designed to support federal careers.