Empowering Veterans: Careers in Mental Health Social Work with the Alaska VA

The Alaska VA Healthcare System is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to the men and women who have served in our nation's military. We are currently looking for a passionate and skilled Mental Health Social Worker to join our team in Anchorage. If you are an experienced clinician looking to transition into a role that combines clinical expertise with deep community impact, this is a unique opportunity to serve those who have given so much.

Job Responsibilities

As a Mental Health Social Worker in our Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (MH RRTP), your primary focus will be supporting homeless Veterans. Key duties include:

Assessment: Conducting screenings and comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments.
Treatment Planning: Creating and managing individualized treatment plans tailored to each Veteran's recovery goals.
Counseling: Providing both individual and group supportive counseling using cognitive-behavioral techniques.
Case Management: Connecting Veterans to internal and external resources, ensuring they have the support needed for successful rehabilitation.
Crisis Intervention: Utilizing clinical judgment to perform suicide screenings and respond effectively in emergency situations.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Education: A Master's degree from a CSWE-accredited Social Work program.
Licensure: State-level licensure for independent practice is required for GS-11. GS-9 positions may allow for a waiver if you are actively pursuing licensure.
Proficiency: Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.

Grade Level Comparison

Feature	GS-9 Level	GS-11 Level
Experience	Entry-level / Post-MSW	1+ Year post-MSW experience
Licensure	May have waiver	Required
Scope	Foundational Clinical Care	Independent Practice & Consultation

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary range of $73,992 to $116,387 per year, commensurate with your qualifications, education, and prior experience.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a robust suite of benefits designed to support you and your family, including:

Retirement: Traditional pension plan and 401(k) matching.
Insurance: Excellent health, vision, and dental insurance options.
Time Off: Ample vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Work-Life Balance: Access to paid parental leave and childcare subsidy programs.

Application Tips

Success in the federal hiring process relies on clarity. Always use the VA-provided clinical resume template, as it ensures your experience aligns with our specific evaluation criteria. Be sure to highlight your experience with substance abuse or homelessness, as these are highly valued in this specific setting.

If you are ready to combine your social work skills with a life of adventure in Alaska while supporting the brave men and women who served our country, apply today. Your contribution will directly influence the success and well-being of our Veterans.

Why This Social Worker - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served: Join the Alaska VA as a Mental Health Social Worker and provide vital support to Veterans on their road to recovery.

Social Worker - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program Job Overview

The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated, compassionate Social Worker to serve within our Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs. In this role, you will work directly with homeless Veterans, providing crucial mental health interventions, case management, and clinical support within a therapeutic community setting. Located in Anchorage, this position offers the chance to practice high-impact social work in a unique, vibrant environment that celebrates both professional challenge and outdoor adventure.

Requirements for Social Worker - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program

U.S. Citizenship
Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
State licensure or certification for independent clinical practice
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Ability to undergo a background and security investigation
Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements

Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program

Direct experience working with populations experiencing substance use disorders, homelessness, or vocational challenges
Prior professional experience in a mental health residential treatment environment
Demonstrated knowledge of SUD (Substance Use Disorder) and addiction-related treatment modalities

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with annual increases
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 paid federal holidays
✓Traditional federal pension with 5-year vesting
✓Federal 401k-style savings plan with up to 5% agency matching
✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
✓Childcare subsidy programs available for qualified households

💡 How to Apply Social Worker - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Social Worker - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS profile
Download the mandatory VA Clinical Resume document
Prepare your full professional CV/resume (no page limit)
Complete the online occupational questionnaire
Upload all required documents, including transcripts and license verification
Submit your application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume specifically to the job duties listed in this announcement
Be precise and detailed when describing your clinical experience to ensure proper grade level evaluation
Ensure your license status is clearly documented and active
Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid disqualification
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS portal periodically after submission

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am not yet licensed for independent practice?

Yes, for the GS-9 grade level, VHA may waive the licensure requirement for otherwise qualified individuals, provided they complete the requirements within a specified timeframe.

What is the typical work schedule for this position?

This role features a flexible, compressed schedule, typically operating Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) relocation assistance is not authorized for this specific vacancy.

Is this a remote position?

*A: No, this is an in-person, site-specific position in Anchorage, Alaska.*

What is the trial period?

*A: As a condition of employment, you will serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate your performance and conduct within the agency.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Alaska VA Healthcare System is a complexity level 3 facility that serves Veterans across the entire state of Alaska. As a member of our team, you won't just be an employee; you will be part of a mission-driven organization committed to "whole health" care. Anchorage provides the perfect backdrop for this work, offering a blend of modern city amenities and world-class access to the Alaskan wilderness.