Advance Your Clinical Career as a Senior Social Worker with the VA
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's heroes? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Senior Social Worker for the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System in Panama City, Florida. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a multidisciplinary team dedicated to the well-being of Veterans, specifically within the PTSD Clinical Team.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Social Worker, you will serve as a key member of the PTSD treatment team. Your responsibilities include:
- Clinical Care: Delivering trauma-focused therapy using evidence-based modalities like EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
- Assessment: Performing complex psychosocial assessments and diagnosing conditions based on the latest standards.
- Program Development: Taking the lead on clinical program effectiveness, monitoring outcomes, and implementing system improvements.
- Collaboration: Working within a multidisciplinary team to develop and execute comprehensive treatment plans.
- Subject Matter Expertise: Serving as a liaison and consultant to colleagues, students, and community organizations.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-12 position, candidates must meet the following baseline criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school |
| Licensure | Advanced state license for independent practice |
| Experience | 2 years post-licensure with 1 year equivalent to GS-11 |
| Language | Proficiency in written and spoken English |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $94,049 to $122,267 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a robust federal benefits package:
- Time Off: Generous accrual of annual and sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays.
- Financial Security: Federal pension and 401k matching.
- Work-Life Balance: Paid parental leave and available childcare subsidies.
- Insurance: High-quality health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Application Tips
Competition for VA positions is high. Ensure your application is successful by:
- Using the Provided Templates: Always use the standard clinical resume document required by the VA.
- Being Specific: Detail your duties and outcomes rather than just listing job titles.
- Checking Your Documents: Ensure your license and transcript copies are clear and easy to read.
If you have the clinical expertise and the passion to serve Veterans, the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System welcomes your application. Apply today to start a rewarding career path with one of the nation's most impactful health systems.
Why This Senior Social Worker Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on those who served by joining the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System as a Senior Social Worker.
Senior Social Worker Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker for the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System in Panama City, Florida. This role is pivotal in providing advanced clinical care within the PTSD Clinical Team, focusing on trauma-informed therapy and evidence-based interventions to improve the lives of our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Current state license or certification to independently practice social work at the master's level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Valid driver's license and ability to operate a Government vehicle
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation
- Successful completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker
- Experience with evidence-based practices for PTSD, such as EMDR or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- Two years of post-licensure experience in a specialized clinical social work setting
- Experience in program development and outcome evaluation
- Advanced training or certifications from recognized professional organizations
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off annually (vacation, sick leave, and 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k-style savings plan with employer matching
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance options
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard clinical resume document provided in the vacancy announcement.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, license, and any required supporting documentation (e.g., SF-50).
- Submit your complete application package by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the job title, duties, start/end dates, and average hours per week.
- Use the specific VA clinical resume template to avoid processing delays.
- Proofread your application to ensure no omissions, as assumptions about your experience will not be made.
- Verify that your state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Senior Social Worker position?
This role focuses on providing trauma-focused therapy as part of the PTSD clinical team, while also taking on administrative responsibilities for clinical program development.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation assistance (Permanent Change of Station) is not authorized for this position.
Are there specific vaccination requirements?
Yes, all health care personnel are required to participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Is this a remote role?
No, this is an onsite position in Panama City, FL.
Is there a sign-on bonus?
Recruitment incentives are not currently authorized for this specific opening.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System is committed to fulfilling the promise of caring for those who have served. Located in the beautiful Mississippi and Florida Gulf Coast region, our facilities offer a unique blend of professional challenge and high quality of life. From picturesque white-sand beaches to vibrant cultural scenes, this region provides a fantastic backdrop for a fulfilling career.