Illustration of a doctor in an exam room working on a computer

Sample psychiatrist job description

[Organization X] is a dynamic, mission-driven behavioral health center dedicated to providing patients with effective psychiatric healthcare. We’re seeking a full-time psychiatrist to join our growing team of medical professionals. The ideal candidate will be down-to-earth, flexible, team-oriented, and empathetic. This person will often collaborate with our staff psychologists and nurses, as well as with primary care physicians in the community. The psychiatrist must have extensive knowledge of and experience in psychopharmacology and behavioral therapies, and have experience treating patients who live with severe mental illness.

Objectives of this role

  • Work with other clinicians and staff members to create an environment that empowers patients to pursue healthier lives
  • Evaluate patients and develop treatment plans that fit their needs in accordance with best practices
  • Explain the evaluation process to patients and/or primary caregivers, and consider input from patients, caregivers, and colleagues when developing treatment plans

Responsibilities

  • Evaluate individuals who are referred for psychiatric assessment
  • Diagnose individuals based on psychiatric evaluation, develop treatment plans, and provide supportive psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when appropriate
  • Provide crisis intervention and assessment
  • Collaborate with on-site nurse to communicate with medical providers outside the organization
  • Compile documentation in accordance with organization’s policies and procedures

Required skills and qualifications

  • Doctor of medicine (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) degree (or equivalent)
  • One year of postgraduate training in an accredited hospital residency program
  • License for the practice of psychiatry 
  • Registration for prescribing controlled substances
  • Extensive knowledge of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology
  • Excellent interpersonal and time-management skills

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Ability to work effectively with children and adolescents
  • Flexibility to cover additional work sites and provide aid in crisis situations
  • Ability to communicate in more than one language