Advance Your Career: Senior Social Worker at the VA in Los Angeles
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of support for those who have defended our nation. We are currently seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Senior Social Worker to join the Community Engagement and Reintegration Service (CERS) in Los Angeles. This GS-12 position offers a unique opportunity to lead, innovate, and directly impact the lives of Veterans transitioning into stable housing and care.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Social Worker, you will serve as a lead clinician for the Grant Per Diem (GPD) program. Your responsibilities include:
- Performing complex psychosocial assessments.
- Developing and implementing advanced treatment plans.
- Providing clinical consultation to staff and students.
- Visiting community-based settings to ensure service compliance and quality.
- Facilitating program growth and service delivery modifications.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline federal criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Education: A Master's Degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school.
- Licensure: An active, unrestricted license to practice clinical social work independently.
- Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
Comparison: Standard Social Worker vs. Senior Social Worker
| Feature | Full Performance (GS-11) | Senior Social Worker (GS-12) |
|---|---|---|
| Complexity | Standard clinical caseload | High-complexity/specialized programs |
| Leadership | Clinical service provision | Program development & staff coaching |
| Supervision | Receives routine supervision | Provides supervision/consultation |
| Scope | Patient-centered care | System-wide quality improvement |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-12 grade level with an annual salary range of $114,695 to $149,106, depending on qualifications and location-based pay adjustments.
Benefits
Employees of the VHA enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB).
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) with matching TSP contributions.
- Generous leave accrual policy.
- Commitment to professional development and long-term career growth.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Download and upload the standard VA Clinical Resume document.
- Be Specific: Do not leave gaps in your work history; quantify your accomplishments.
- Submit Early: Ensure your application is complete before the July 27, 2026, deadline.
Serving as a Senior Social Worker at the Los Angeles VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of our heroes. If you possess the clinical expertise and the heart for service, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Senior Social Worker Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served—join the VA as a Senior Social Worker in Los Angeles and lead transformative care initiatives for our nation's Veterans.
Senior Social Worker Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker for the Community Engagement and Reintegration Service (CERS) in Los Angeles. This high-level clinical role focuses on the Grant Per Diem (GPD) Program, supporting homeless Veterans by managing housing resources and integrated support services. You will provide advanced clinical expertise, conduct psychosocial assessments, and lead program development in a mission-driven environment that values whole-person health.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Active, full, and unrestricted independent state licensure or certification.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and background investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker
- At least two years of experience post-advanced practice clinical licensure.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
- Advanced certification or specialized training from a recognized professional organization.
- Demonstrated ability to perform psychosocial assessments and develop treatment plans in complex clinical settings.
- Experience in program management, policy development, and staff training.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Generous paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Flexible retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- ✓Supportive environment with a focus on work-life balance and whole health.
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Create or update your USAJobs account profile.
- Download the mandatory Clinical Resume document from the VA career portal.
- Prepare your resume, transcripts, and supporting documentation (e.g., DD-214, SF-50 if applicable).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your entire application package before the closing date of July 27, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details how your experience meets the GS-12 requirements.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid administrative rejection.
- Verify your licensure status and ensure all supporting documents are legible.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the announcement.
- Highlight volunteer experience, as it counts toward your qualifying experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this position?
This Senior Social Worker role focuses on the Grant Per Diem (GPD) program within the Community Engagement and Reintegration Service, assisting homeless Veterans with housing and care coordination.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, ad-hoc telework may be possible after the initial 90-day training and onboarding period.
Do I need to be licensed to apply?
Yes, applicants must hold a valid, unrestricted license to practice social work at the independent master's level as required by the state.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served. We prioritize a 'Whole Health' model, empowering Veterans to take charge of their well-being in partnership with a dedicated, interdisciplinary team.