FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Moving to paradise has never been easier. Our relocation assistance includes reimbursement for expenses, which can help to cover air transportation, shipping of goods, vehicle transport, rental assistance, and temporary housing. Reimbursement checks are issued upon submission of original receipts after the first 90 days of employment.
We value our clinical staff and offer believe in rewarding your expertise. Enjoy new competitive salaries tailored to recognize your dedication and contributions.
Experience Life in Paradise Living and working on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands offers the perfect blend of work and leisure. Embrace the warmth of a welcoming community and the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most captivating destinations. As a resident, you’ll enjoy a life that’s as fulfilling as it is picturesque.
We offer generous time off to take a break and recharge with 20 days of paid holidays for both local and federal observances. Additionally, you’ll receive 13 days of annual (vacation) and sick leave each year, with leave time accruing at a rate of 4 hours per pay. After 3 years, annual leave accrual increases to 6 hours.
Cigna is our current health care insurance provider for medical and dental. They cover a wide variety of services.
The Government of the Virgin Islands requires that employees obtain and maintain health insurance while employed. You can keep your current health insurance; however, proof of insurance is required.
Once Hired, you will be offered Basic, Supplemental and Dependent Spouse and Child Life Insurance – Basic Life $10,000 is automatically given to full-time employees as a benefit. Supplemental Life is available up to 4 times the basic annual salary.
To navigate the U.S. Virgin Islands efficiently we recommend getting or renting a car.
Taxis are available but can be expensive and are not readily available in the evenings and late at night.
Short and long-term Car Rentals are available:
If you are thinking of shipping your car from the stateside there are several reputable shipping companies available here in the Virgin Islands. Here are a few:
Driving in the U.S. Virgin Islands can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads, and drivers often use quick honks as a form of communication.
Public transportation, such as Vitran buses, is available on each island but may not be highly reliable. Taxis, labeled with a placard or license plate, are widespread and convenient but require negotiation for fares.
Ferries offer an affordable means of inter-island travel, between the US and British Virgin Islands. Check ferry schedule and websites for more information.
Our territory offers convenient inter-island flights to travel between St. Thomas, St. Croix, and Puerto Rico. Prices and schedules for transportation options can vary, so travelers are advised to check with airlines before planning your trips.
Housing here can be pricey, but options abound. Consider working with a realtor, exploring online listings, networking, or seeking HR referrals. We highly recommend visiting the island prior to making any housing decisions. This will give you the opportunity to explore different neighborhoods, get a feel for the local atmosphere, and ensure that the housing option you choose aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. We’re here to help you find your perfect home!
A cost-of-living index is a measure of the overall expenses required by an average person residing in a specific location. It encompasses categories such as healthcare, transportation, housing, and groceries. This index helps determine how far a given amount of money stretches in different areas, aiding in decisions about relocation. The index is calculated based on data from cost-of-living surveys and public records, averaging expenses like healthcare, transportation, housing, and groceries across the region. The index compares locations to a national average, with percentages indicating how they fare in comparison.
Based on this calculation, the cost of living in St. Thomas is approximately 28% more expensive than the national average.
Quality of life is a non-financial aspect linked to job and life satisfaction. It encompasses the ability to engage in enjoyable activities and is now commonly considered alongside salary when evaluating the appeal of a job. This includes factors such as the time and ability to pursue activities one enjoys, as well as considerations like salary, work hours, time off for leisure, commute, access to quality education, and more. Quality of life is a crucial consideration when assessing a job opportunity.
SRMC offers great work life balance opportunities.
Here are some additional resources:
https://doh.vi.gov/pantheon/USVI_CHA%202020_Final_06.02.20.pdf
Retirement Benefit
Any person who becomes an employee of the Government of the Virgin Islands shall become a member as a condition of employment on the date of appointment.
The deductions are pre-tax.
An individual who has worked with the Government of the Virgin Islands and has paid contributions for nine years and nine months to the Government Employees’ Retirement System is considered a vested member of the System. If you separate employment from the Government of the Virgin Islands, you can apply to receive your contributions. Taxes may be deducted.
