Senior Social Worker (HUD-VASH): A Career Serving Those Who Served
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class care to America's Veterans. If you are a licensed clinical social worker with a passion for helping those experiencing homelessness, the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Wenatchee, Washington, offers an exceptional opportunity. As a Senior Social Worker for the HUD-VASH program, you will serve on the front lines of clinical care, coordinating housing and health services for Veterans in need. This guide provides an in-depth look at this role, the requirements for success, and how to navigate the federal hiring process.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you are not just an employee; you are an advocate. Your duties will include:
- Clinical Assessment: Evaluating the vulnerabilities and needs of Veterans to prioritize care and housing.
- Comprehensive Case Management: Linking Veterans to medical, psychiatric, and vocational services, and conducting site visits to ensure housing safety.
- Program Administration: Managing data, tracking performance indicators, and collaborating with Public Housing Authorities.
- Leadership: Mentoring staff, developing clinical policies, and serving on facility-wide committees.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-12 role, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Possess a current, valid, and unrestricted independent clinical social work license.
- Have at least two years of post-licensure clinical experience.
- Demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Pass a pre-employment driving evaluation and hold a clean driving record.
Salary and Benefits Overview
The position offers a highly competitive compensation package. Below is a comparison of typical federal benefits versus private sector expectations.
| Benefit Feature | Federal Advantage |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $97,987 - $127,386 |
| Loan Repayment | Up to $200,000 (EDRP) |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 days (Annual/Sick/Holidays) |
| Pension | Traditional Federal Pension Plan |
| Insurance | Portable health/vision/dental/life |
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Download and upload the standard Clinical Resume document provided by the VA.
- Be Specific: Detail your duties for every job, including hours worked per week.
- Verify Everything: Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates how you meet the GS-12 experience requirements.
Serving as a Senior Social Worker at the VA in Wenatchee is a rewarding way to apply your clinical skills where they are needed most. By supporting Veterans in their journey toward stable housing and health, you become an essential part of the VA mission. We encourage qualified professionals to apply through the USAJOBS portal and take the next step in their public service career.
Why This Senior Social Worker (Hud-Vash) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Mann-Grandstaff VA as a Senior Social Worker and lead essential HUD-VASH clinical programs in beautiful Wenatchee, Washington.
Senior Social Worker (Hud-Vash) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker for the HUD-VASH program in Wenatchee, Washington. This role is pivotal in providing clinical social work services to Veterans experiencing homelessness. As a Senior Social Worker, you will operate at an advanced practice level, utilizing clinical judgment to provide specialized treatment, coordinate complex care, and mentor staff. This position offers a competitive federal salary, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work within a supportive, mission-driven environment in the heart of Washington's outdoor paradise.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker (Hud-Vash)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school
- Current, full, valid, and unrestricted independent clinical social work license
- Two years of post-licensure experience, including one year equivalent to GS-11
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Valid state driver's license with a clean driving record
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and driving evaluation
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker (Hud-Vash)
- Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness
- Advanced certifications in specialized social work practice
- Proven experience in program development and clinical leadership
- Demonstrated ability to provide supervision and mentorship to clinical staff
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- âś“Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- âś“Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching
- âś“Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- âś“Generous annual and sick leave (37-50 days total)
- âś“Childcare subsidy for eligible families
- âś“Regular, merit-based salary increases
đź’ˇ How to Apply Senior Social Worker (Hud-Vash) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker (Hud-Vash) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Prepare your resume with detailed information on duties, dates, and full-time/part-time status.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire via the application link.
- Upload all necessary documents, including your license, transcripts, and SF-50 (if applicable).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Use the provided standard Clinical Resume Document template for your primary upload.
- Be specific about your clinical experience; do not assume the hiring team knows your previous roles.
- Include month and year start/end dates for all listed employment.
- Clearly highlight your clinical license status and supervisory experience.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before clicking submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on eligibility.
What is the primary focus of the HUD-VASH program?
The HUD-VASH program combines Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance for homeless Veterans with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Do I need a specific resume format?
*A: While not mandatory, using the VA's suggested clinical resume template is highly recommended for accuracy.*
Is this role eligible for student loan help?
*A: Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).*
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 in our nation’s military. Working at the VA means joining a culture defined by our 'I CARE' values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Located in scenic Wenatchee, Washington, this position allows you to enjoy a four-season climate with access to unparalleled outdoor recreation, from hiking the Centennial Trail to exploring the stunning lakes of the region.