Empowering Veterans: Your Career as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor at the VA
Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for helping others regain their independence through meaningful work? The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia, is currently seeking a motivated Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to join its esteemed Mental Health team. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to directly impact the lives of our nation's heroes as they transition back into community-based work.
Job Responsibilities
As a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, your daily tasks are centered on the holistic improvement of a Veteran's quality of life. You will:
- Assess Needs: Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial and vocational assessments.
- Develop Plans: Build patient-centered, SMART-goal-oriented rehabilitation plans.
- Counseling: Provide therapeutic interventions to support adjustment and work readiness.
- Placement: Use job development strategies to connect Veterans with local employers.
- Consultation: Work alongside an interdisciplinary team to identify barriers to employment.
Requirements & Qualifications
To succeed in this role, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet specific educational standards, including a Master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from an accredited institution. Holding a current Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) credential is required for most applicants, though graduate-level temporary appointments may be available for recent graduates.
Comparison Table: GS-9 vs GS-11 Positions
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Basic requirements met | 1 year of equivalent professional experience |
| Advanced Degree | Master's required | Doctoral degree preferred |
| Complexity | Standard casework | Complex disability/barrier management |
Salary Overview & Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $97,087 annually, depending on your qualifications and grade level. Beyond the paycheck, you will enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package that includes:
- Excellent health and life insurance options.
- Retirement savings programs (TSP).
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
- Continuous education and professional development support.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is tailored to the specific duties mentioned in the announcement. Use the mandatory Clinical Resume document provided by the VA, as this is a specific requirement for the hiring board. Always double-check your documents for clarity and ensure that all certifications and transcripts are clearly legible.
If you possess the clinical skill and empathetic nature required to help Veterans overcome psychosocial hurdles, this position in Augusta, Georgia, offers a rewarding career path. Apply today to begin your journey with the Department of Veterans Affairs and contribute to a mission that changes lives every single day.
Why This Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Job Matters
Transform lives as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the VA—where your clinical expertise directly supports the independence and career success of our nation’s Veterans.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Job Overview
The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia, is seeking a dedicated Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to join its Mental Health Service. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive support to Veterans navigating complex psychiatric, physical, and psychosocial challenges. By developing individualized service plans and facilitating job placement, you will empower Veterans to achieve their personal and professional goals while working within a collaborative, mission-driven interdisciplinary team.
Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
- United States Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field (accredited by CACREP or CHEA-recognized institutions)
- Valid, unrestricted Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination
- Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements
- Must pass a background and security investigation
- For male applicants: Selective Service registration
Preferred Qualifications for Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
- Minimum of two years of professional experience
- Specific clinical experience working with patients diagnosed with serious mental illness
- Experience with evidence-based counseling models such as Individual Placement and Support (IPS)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- âś“Generous paid time off, including annual and sick leave
- âś“Federal retirement savings plans with employer matching
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and training
- âś“Service credit for prior federal or military experience for leave accrual
đź’ˇ How to Apply Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA careers link.
- Prepare your full resume, transcripts, and any applicable supporting documents like your DD-214 or license.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all documents to the appropriate sections, ensuring the Clinical Resume is in the restricted two-page slot.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific: The hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience, so detail your volunteer and professional work thoroughly.
- Use the template: Failure to use the specified one-page Clinical Resume document may impact your application.
- Check your status: Monitor your USAJOBS dashboard regularly for updates after the announcement closes.
- Verify documents: Ensure your transcripts and professional licenses are clear and legible before uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am in the process of getting my CRC certification?
Yes, under specific circumstances. Graduates of approved programs who meet all other requirements may be hired as a graduate RC on a temporary, time-limited appointment while obtaining their certification.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No. This is an onsite, patient-facing role within the VA Augusta Health Care System, and telework is not available.
What is the work schedule?
This position follows a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center means joining a healthcare system that values compassionate care, clinical excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration.