Making an Impact: Pursuing a Social Work Career with the Veterans Health Administration
Becoming a Social Worker within the Department of Veterans Affairs is more than a career; it is a commitment to service. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking compassionate, skilled, and driven individuals for Social Worker positions in the Washington, DC area. This role is essential for the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) model, ensuring that our nation's Veterans receive the comprehensive, whole-person care they have earned. If you are passionate about mental health, clinical intervention, and advocacy, this may be the ideal next step in your professional journey.
Job Responsibilities
As a PACT Social Worker, your day-to-day operations will be both challenging and rewarding. You will act as a bridge between the Veteran, their family, and the clinical team. Primary duties include:
- Conduct thorough biopsychosocial assessments.
- Provide short-term, solution-focused counseling.
- Develop and implement personalized care plans.
- Coordinate referrals for community and governmental support services.
- Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and specialists.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-9 / GS-11 |
| Location | Washington, DC |
| Salary Range | $77,688 - $94,448 |
| Schedule | Full-Time (Mon-Fri) |
Requirements
To ensure the highest quality of care, the VHA requires that applicants meet stringent standards:
- Education: A Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- Licensure: Independent practice licensure is required for GS-11 applicants.
- Communication: High level of proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Documentation: Ability to clear a security and suitability background check.
Benefits
Federal employment offers a robust package designed to support your personal and professional well-being:
- Competitive federal salary with career ladder advancement.
- Comprehensive health insurance, dental, and vision coverage.
- Generous accrual of vacation and sick leave.
- Federal pension plans and matching retirement contributions.
- Stable, mission-driven work environment.
Application Tips
Standing out in federal hiring requires precision. Start by ensuring your resume clearly reflects the KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) outlined in the job description. Always utilize the required VA resume templates, as these ensure HR specialists can efficiently evaluate your credentials. Don't forget to include all relevant certifications and detailed descriptions of your clinical internships or past employment.
Serving as a VA Social Worker is an opportunity to provide life-changing care to Veterans. By joining the PACT team, you contribute to a legacy of respect and excellence. Apply today to start a career that directly impacts the lives of those who have served our nation.
Why This Social Worker Job Matters
Empower the lives of those who served by joining a mission-driven team of healthcare professionals. Provide vital psychosocial support as a Social Worker with the Veterans Health Administration.
Social Worker Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join the Patient Aligned Care Teams (PACT) at the VA Maryland Health Care System. In this role, you will play a critical part in helping Veterans navigate medical, mental health, and psychosocial challenges. By working within an interdisciplinary team, you will provide comprehensive assessments, develop personalized treatment plans, and facilitate care to ensure our nation's heroes receive the compassionate support they deserve.
Requirements for Social Worker
- U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants.
- Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Must be licensed or certified to independently practice at the master's level (required for GS-11; exceptions possible for GS-9).
- Must demonstrate professional proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must participate in the agency's seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must pass a background and security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker
- Experience in clinical health care settings providing social work services.
- Demonstrated ability to perform psychosocial assessments for diverse patient populations.
- Proven experience in developing and implementing complex treatment plans.
- Ability to collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Generous paid leave, including annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Work-life balance with standard Monday-Friday scheduling.
💡 How to Apply Social Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume document template provided by the VA.
- Prepare your full CV/resume and supporting documents, such as transcripts and professional licenses.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of July 23, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; do not rely on assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your license status is clearly documented.
- Use the specific VA-provided resume template for your primary application file.
- Double-check all required documents, including SF-50s for current federal employees, before submitting.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the announcement closing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of the PACT Social Worker?
The Social Worker provides assessment, treatment, and coordination of care for Veterans, focusing on psychosocial issues, crisis intervention, and long-term wellness planning.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?
For GS-11, licensure is mandatory. For GS-9, the agency may grant an exception under specific circumstances while you work toward your state requirements.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an on-site position at the VA Maryland Health Care System. It is not designated as a virtual or telework-eligible role.
What is the difference between GS-9 and GS-11 roles?
*A: The GS-9 level is considered an entry-level position that may include supervision, while the GS-11 level is the independent practice level requiring a higher degree of experience and full licensure.*
Are there relocation incentives for this role?
*A: Per the current announcement, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VHA employs a vast network of medical professionals dedicated to the motto: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military." The VA Maryland Health Care System represents a multi-site system focused on academic excellence, rehabilitation, and patient-centered primary care.