Empower Veterans in Fairbanks: Senior Social Worker Opportunity
The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a compassionate and highly skilled Senior Social Worker to join their team in Fairbanks. This role represents more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring that Veterans—specifically those navigating the justice system—receive the advocacy, health care, and resources they earned through their service.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as the administrative and clinical lead for the Veterans Justice Program (VJP) and Grant and Per Diem (GPD) liaison services. Key duties include:
- Outreach: Identifying and interviewing Veterans within correctional facilities.
- Care Coordination: Designing transition plans that link Veterans to VA healthcare and community resources.
- Program Management: Overseeing GPD program compliance, including audits and data submissions.
- Leadership: Providing expert consultation to colleagues and mentoring clinical staff.
Comparison Table: Senior Social Worker Role vs. General Social Work
| Feature | Senior Social Worker (This Role) | Standard Social Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Specialized (VJP/GPD) | Generalist Case Management |
| Level | Advanced Practice/Leadership | Full Performance |
| Autonomy | High (Program Oversight) | Moderate |
| Collaboration | Cross-Agency/Systemic | Team-Based/Internal |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet strict qualifications:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Master's Degree in Social Work (CSWE-accredited).
- Valid, unrestricted independent clinical license.
- At least two years of post-licensure experience.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $104,196 to $135,458 per year. Employees also benefit from a robust federal compensation package, including 37-50 days of total paid time off, comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement package, and access to child care subsidies.
Application Tips
- Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided on the VA website.
- Be explicit in your resume about your experience, including hours worked per week and specific clinical interventions used.
- Verify that your license is active and in good standing.
If you are a licensed social worker looking to apply your skills in a setting that demands high-level clinical judgment and programmatic leadership, this position in Fairbanks offers an unparalleled opportunity to serve those who have served us.
Why This Senior Social Worker - Veterans Justice Program And Grant And Per Diem Liaison Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served by stepping into a vital leadership role in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Senior Social Worker - Veterans Justice Program And Grant And Per Diem Liaison Job Overview
The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker to oversee the Veterans Justice Program (VJP) and Grant and Per Diem (GPD) liaison duties. This role is perfect for a mission-driven professional who excels at clinical coordination, program administration, and direct support for justice-involved Veterans as they navigate their reintegration into the community.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker - Veterans Justice Program And Grant And Per Diem Liaison
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Current, full, valid, and unrestricted independent social work license or certification
- Minimum of two years of post-licensure clinical experience
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Valid state-issued driver's license for government vehicle operation
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker - Veterans Justice Program And Grant And Per Diem Liaison
- Experience in specialized social work settings equivalent to GS-11 or higher
- Advanced clinical certifications or specialized training in justice-involved populations
- Expertise in program development and audit compliance (e.g., Joint Commission, CART)
- Strong communication skills for interdisciplinary team collaboration and community outreach
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off (Annual leave, sick leave, and Federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional Federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401(k) (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service
- ✓Potential child care subsidy for eligible families
đź’ˇ How to Apply Senior Social Worker - Veterans Justice Program And Grant And Per Diem Liaison Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker - Veterans Justice Program And Grant And Per Diem Liaison Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Download the Clinical Resume template provided by the VA.
- Upload your resume, license, transcripts, and any required SF-50 documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; detail your duties, start/end dates, and weekly hours for every position listed.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps to the requirements requested.
- Upload your specific clinical resume as the 'restricted' document and your full, unrestricted CV under the 'Other' category.
- Review your application for the required SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of this Senior Social Worker role?
You will manage the clinical programming for the Veterans Justice Program and GPD Liaison, conduct psychosocial assessments, and facilitate transitions for Veterans involved with the justice system.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position based in Fairbanks, Alaska, though some ad-hoc telework may be available.
Do I need a doctoral degree for this role?
*A: No, a master's degree in social work from an accredited institution is required.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation assistance (PCS) is not authorized for this specific vacancy.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated 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 Alaska VA Healthcare System (AVAHS) operates with a focus on integrity, commitment, and advocacy, providing whole-health care to Veterans across the state.
