Launch Your Clinical Career: Social Worker Opportunities at VA Black Hills
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to transition your career into a environment where your work directly impacts those who have sacrificed for our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a motivated and compassionate Social Worker to join the Addiction Disorder Services (ADS) track at the VA Black Hills Health Care System in Hot Springs, South Dakota. This position offers a unique blend of clinical challenge and professional stability within the federal sector.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will provide critical support to Veterans within the Domiciliary care environment. Primary duties include:
- Clinical Assessment: Conducting psychosocial assessments to understand the needs of Veterans and their families.
- Treatment Planning: Actively participating in interdisciplinary teams to create and execute evidence-based recovery plans.
- Therapeutic Intervention: Providing group and individual counseling for addiction, PTSD, and complex mental health conditions.
- Case Management: Serving as a liaison between the VA and community resources to facilitate seamless care.
- Mentorship: Offering guidance to students, interns, and junior staff members.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following baseline federal criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- Licensure: State-level certification for independent master's level practice.
- Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English skills.
- Physicality: Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
Salary and Comparison
The position falls within the GS-9 to GS-11 grade range, reflecting the responsibility and experience level required for the role.
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Entry-level (Post-MSW) | 1+ Year Specialized Experience |
| Licensure Status | May be in-progress | Required (Independent) |
| Primary Focus | Development & Training | Full Performance/Autonomy |
Benefits
- Student Loan Support: Eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Work-Life Balance: 37–50 days of paid leave annually.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with match.
- Health: Premium federal insurance options.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is tailored to the specific duties of this role. Highlight your experience in substance abuse and crisis intervention. Use the official VA clinical resume format provided on their careers portal to maximize your eligibility.
Serving those who served is a profoundly rewarding career path. If you are a social worker dedicated to addiction recovery and high-quality mental health care, we invite you to apply to join the VA Black Hills team today.
Why This Social Worker - Addiction Disorder Services (Ads) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by joining our compassionate clinical team in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota.
Social Worker - Addiction Disorder Services (Ads) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join the Addiction Disorder Services (ADS) track within the Domiciliary at the VA Black Hills Health Care System. This role focuses on providing comprehensive clinical support, including psychosocial assessments, treatment planning, and crisis intervention for Veterans navigating addiction and mental health challenges.
Requirements for Social Worker - Addiction Disorder Services (Ads)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program
- State licensure or certification to independently practice social work at the master's level
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Valid driver's license
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker - Addiction Disorder Services (Ads)
- One year of post-MSW professional experience in a clinical or healthcare setting
- Doctoral degree in social work
- Experience in crisis intervention and substance abuse treatment
- Knowledge of VA systems and community resource coordination
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Up to 50 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
- ✓Recruitment/Relocation incentives for qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Social Worker - Addiction Disorder Services (Ads) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker - Addiction Disorder Services (Ads) Job
- Prepare a detailed resume highlighting your clinical experience and specific KSAs
- Gather necessary documentation including transcripts and proof of licensure
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Complete the online questionnaire and upload all required documents
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 21, 2026
💡 General Tips
- Address each Knowledge, Skill, and Ability (KSA) listed in the announcement directly in your resume.
- Do not leave gaps in your work history; provide specific details about your clinical interventions.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and clearly show your degree conferral date.
- Use the provided VA-specific resume template to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Verify your license status and ensure all certifications are current.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers significant student loan reimbursement for qualifying candidates.
What is the expected work schedule?
The schedule is Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed in South Dakota?
Licensure requirements vary by grade level. Please refer to the full job requirements regarding the GS-9 vs. GS-11 licensure mandates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing comprehensive care to our nation's Veterans, the VA Black Hills Health Care System serves as a vital resource in Western South Dakota, Northern Nebraska, and Eastern Wyoming. Working at the VA means joining a mission-driven organization that prioritizes whole-health care, holistic treatment, and patient-centered recovery.