Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Rehabilitation Counselor at the St. Louis VA

Are you a dedicated professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The St. Louis VA Health Care System is hiring a Rehabilitation Counselor for its Homeless Programs. This role is perfect for those passionate about helping Veterans overcome significant barriers to achieve personal, vocational, and educational success.

Job Responsibilities

As a journey-level Rehabilitation Counselor, your daily work will revolve around recovery-oriented interventions. Key duties include:

Clinical Intervention: Providing personal adjustment counseling and therapeutic interventions.
Vocational Support: Conducting biopsychosocial assessments to develop individualized service plans.
Case Management: Coordinating care for Veterans with physical, psychological, or neurological barriers.
Community Partnership: Managing transitional work agreements with local business and government partners.
Field Work: Conducting community visits and navigating diverse environments to support Veterans in their work settings.

Requirements

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

Education: A Master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field (accredited by CACREP or CHEA).
Certification: A current, unrestricted Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) credential.
Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is required.
Documentation: Ability to provide a valid driver's license and pass a pre-employment physical.

Grade Level Comparison

Level	Requirements	Key Focus
GS-9	Meets basic education/certification requirements.	Entry-level assessment and service delivery.
GS-11	One year of specialized experience at GS-9 level.	Independent caseload management and advanced counseling practices.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $63,288 to $99,550, commensurate with experience and grade level determination.

Benefits of Federal Employment

Working for the VA provides more than just a paycheck. Employees gain access to:

Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
Generous retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid annual and sick leave accrual.
Flexibility through ad-hoc telework arrangements.

Application Tips

Use the Template: Always use the official VA Clinical Resume document. This is non-negotiable for a complete application.
Highlight Evidence-Based Practices: If you have worked with IPS (Individual Placement and Support) or other evidence-based models, explicitly mention these in your resume.
Be Detailed: Provide clear examples of your experience in your questionnaire. Vague answers will hinder your chances of referral.

This role offers a unique opportunity to use your clinical skills to serve those who have served us. If you are ready to advocate for Veterans and help them navigate their path to employment and stability, submit your application package before the July 7, 2026, deadline.

Why This Rehabilitation Counselor (Hchv Employment Specialist) Job Matters

Join the St. Louis VA as a Rehabilitation Counselor and transform the lives of Veterans through vocational recovery, community integration, and compassionate clinical care.

Rehabilitation Counselor (Hchv Employment Specialist) Job Overview

The St. Louis VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Rehabilitation Counselor (HCHV Employment Specialist) to provide recovery-oriented clinical services within our Homeless Programs. In this role, you will serve as a key member of a multidisciplinary team, utilizing evidence-based practices to assist Veterans with complex mental health, physical, and psychosocial barriers as they pursue vocational, educational, and independent living goals.

Requirements for Rehabilitation Counselor (Hchv Employment Specialist)

U.S. Citizenship (unless otherwise permitted by policy).
Master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field (e.g., counseling, psychology) from an accredited program.
Current, full, and unrestricted certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) from the CRCC (or eligibility to obtain within specified timelines).
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Valid state-issued Driver's License for community-based work.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and background/security investigation.
Seasonal influenza vaccination compliance as a condition of employment.

Preferred Qualifications for Rehabilitation Counselor (Hchv Employment Specialist)

Proven experience working with adult populations facing complex mental health or substance use disorders.
Experience implementing evidence-based vocational practices in community or non-traditional settings.
Prior work history with government or non-profit agencies.
Deep understanding of military culture and the specific transition challenges faced by combat Veterans.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and career advancement potential (GS-9 to GS-11).
✓Comprehensive Federal benefits package including health insurance, retirement planning, and life insurance.
✓Accrual of annual and sick leave, with potential for leave credit based on prior experience.
✓Support for professional development and continuous education.
✓Ad-hoc telework opportunities to promote work-life balance.

💡 How to Apply Rehabilitation Counselor (Hchv Employment Specialist) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Rehabilitation Counselor (Hchv Employment Specialist) Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Prepare your resume and required transcripts.
Download and complete the mandatory VA Clinical Resume document template.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
Upload all necessary supporting documents (DD-214, certifications, etc.) by the closing date.
Submit your final application package through the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume—the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
Ensure you use the required VA clinical resume format to ensure your application passes initial screenings.
Double-check that all supporting documentation (transcripts, licenses) is attached before submitting.
Highlight your experience with evidence-based vocational models, as these are highly valued in this role.
Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the full performance level for this position?

The full performance level for this position is GS-11, with a selection range of GS-9 to GS-11.

Is this a remote or virtual position?

No, this is not a virtual position. While the role offers ad-hoc telework, the incumbent must be able to report to the St. Louis, Missouri location.

What happens if I do not have my CRC certification at the time of application?

Qualified candidates may be appointed as Graduate RCs on a temporary basis (not to exceed two years) while actively working toward certification requirements. Failure to obtain certification within the timeframe may lead to removal from the series.

What is the primary location for this job?

*A: This position is based in Saint Louis, Missouri, at the Jefferson Ave. Clinic.*

Do I need a background check?

*A: Yes, all selected applicants are subject to a security and suitability investigation.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families." As part of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), you will join a team dedicated to providing compassionate, whole-health care that honors the sacrifices of our nation's heroes.