Empowering Caregivers: Social Work Careers at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Are you a dedicated social worker passionate about supporting the families of those who served our country? The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas, is seeking motivated professionals to join our Caregiver Support Program (CSP). As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston offers a vibrant, cosmopolitan environment where your clinical skills can make a direct, life-changing impact on Veterans and their primary caregivers.
Job Responsibilities
As a Caregiver Support Program Social Worker, you are the bridge between the medical system and the families who sustain our Veterans. Your duties will be varied and clinically rewarding:
- Assessment: Conduct thorough assessments of caregiver stress, psychiatric health, and social needs.
- Treatment Planning: Develop and implement clinical interventions tailored to the specific needs of Veterans and their families.
- Education: Facilitate caregiver support groups and provide training on medical procedures, medications, and stress management.
- Collaboration: Partner with interdisciplinary medical teams to ensure cohesive care plans.
- Hotline Support: Assist in responding to national and local inquiries regarding caregiver support resources.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen. |
| Education | Master’s degree in Social Work (CSWE accredited). |
| Licensure | State license at the independent practice level (GS-11). |
| Language | Proficient in written and spoken English. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $78,036 to $122,748, depending on experience and grade level (GS-09 to GS-11). The VA provides regular salary increases and recognizes professional growth.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA offers a robust benefits package:
- 37-50 days of paid time off (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays).
- Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- Excellent pension and 401(k)-style retirement benefits.
- Paid parental leave.
- Opportunities for annual leave accrual based on prior work experience.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the official VA clinical resume document for your primary submission.
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly states your specific duties, dates of employment, and hours worked per week.
- Prepare Documents: Have your transcripts and current state license ready for upload before you begin the online process.
Serving as a Caregiver Support Program Social Worker at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the wellbeing of those who sustain our Veterans. If you are ready to bring your clinical expertise to a team that truly makes a difference, apply to the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center today.
Why This Social Worker - Caregiver Support Program Job Matters
Empower those who served by supporting the heroes behind our Veterans. Join the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center as a Caregiver Support Program Social Worker and make a lasting impact on Veteran families in Houston.
Social Worker - Caregiver Support Program Job Overview
The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is seeking a compassionate and skilled Social Worker to join the rapidly expanding Caregiver Support Program. You will play a vital role in enhancing the health and well-being of Veteran caregivers through targeted therapeutic interventions, resource linkage, and comprehensive education. This position is perfect for a dedicated professional looking to provide whole-person care in a dynamic, high-impact clinical environment.
Requirements for Social Worker - Caregiver Support Program
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
- Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- Current state licensure or certification at the independent, master's level (Required for GS-11; exceptions apply for GS-9).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and background investigation.
- Completion of mandatory annual influenza vaccination or approved exemption.
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker - Caregiver Support Program
- One year of professional post-MSW experience in a health care or clinical social work setting.
- Specific experience working directly with Caregiver Support Programs.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to coordinate services across agency lines.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Generous Paid Time Off: 13-26 days annual leave plus 13 days sick leave and 11 paid Federal holidays.
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health, Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance programs.
- ✓Traditional Federal pension (5-year vesting) and 401(k) retirement plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Paid parental leave for birth, adoption, or foster care.
- ✓Childcare subsidy eligibility for qualifying families.
- ✓Potential credit toward annual leave accrual based on prior service.
💡 How to Apply Social Worker - Caregiver Support Program Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker - Caregiver Support Program Job
- Log in or create a profile at USAJOBS.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire.
- Upload a standard clinical resume (template provided) plus your full CV/resume.
- Attach supporting documents including transcripts, licenses, and SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of July 24, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; avoid generic descriptions and include hours worked per week and exact dates.
- Use the specific VA clinical resume template provided in the announcement for the primary upload.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
- Ensure all documentation is submitted before the deadline to avoid disqualification due to missing information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is licensure required to apply for the GS-09 level?
For GS-9, you must be working toward licensure, but the VA may offer a grace period for individuals who meet all other qualifications. Licensure is mandatory for the GS-11 grade level.
Can I substitute a doctoral degree for the master's degree?
No, a master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school is a basic requirement. A doctorate may only be used to substitute for the one-year experience requirement at the GS-11 level.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is at the heart of this mission in southeast Texas, providing world-class health care to over 151,000 Veterans. When you join the VA, you are joining a team that values compassion, whole-person care, and professional growth.