Serving Those Who Served: Clinical Social Work at the VA

Are you a dedicated social worker looking to transition your career toward high-impact, mission-driven clinical practice? The Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center in Walla Walla, Washington, is seeking a compassionate and skilled Social Worker to support our Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) team. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring that our nation's Veterans receive the dignity, support, and clinical care they deserve in the comfort of their own homes.

Job Responsibilities

As an HBPC Social Worker, you will operate as a subject matter expert in a collaborative environment. Your primary duties include:

Comprehensive Assessments: Evaluating psychosocial functioning and needs of Veterans and their families.
Treatment Planning: Creating and implementing care plans that address physical, mental, and social health goals.
Case Management: Coordinating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure seamless care delivery.
Crisis Intervention: Providing rapid assessments and stabilization planning.
Advocacy & Education: Empowering Veterans to navigate VA benefits, advanced directives, and community resources.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline federal qualifications:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Education: A Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program.
Licensure: A current, unrestricted independent practice license.
Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English.
Driving: A valid driver's license and the ability to operate a government vehicle.

Feature	GS-9 Level	GS-11 Level
Experience	Entry-level MSW	1 Year post-MSW Clinical Experience
Licensure	Required	Required (Independent Level)
Responsibilities	Foundational Care	Specialized/Consultative Care

Salary Overview

This position is part of the GS-0185 occupational series, with a salary range of $73,264 to $115,242 per year. Compensation is determined based on your experience, education level, and professional credentials.

Benefits

The VA provides one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the federal sector:

Paid Time Off: Up to 50 days of total leave annually.
Family Support: Paid parental leave and child care subsidies.
Retirement: Traditional pension and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
Insurance: Federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care options.

Application Tips

Document Everything: Be specific about your experience. Use month/year start and end dates.
Follow Format: Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your ability to perform the duties listed in the announcement.
License Verification: Ensure your current license is valid and active in the state of practice.

If you are a social worker dedicated to clinical excellence and advocating for the needs of Veterans, this role offers both professional growth and a deep sense of purpose. Apply today to help us continue the promise to care for those who have served.

Why This Social Worker (Home-Based Primary Care) Job Matters

Make a lasting impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the Home-Based Primary Care team in beautiful Walla Walla, Washington.

Social Worker (Home-Based Primary Care) Job Overview

The Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join the Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) program. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive case management, clinical treatment, and advocacy for Veterans within their own homes. You will serve as a key member of an interdisciplinary team, developing treatment plans, conducting psychosocial assessments, and ensuring our Veterans receive the high-quality, whole-health care they have earned. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a community recognized for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and vibrant culture.

Requirements for Social Worker (Home-Based Primary Care)

U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school.
State license or certification for independent social work practice.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Valid state-issued driver's license with a clean history.
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and background investigation.
Must meet Selective Service registration requirements (if applicable).
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker (Home-Based Primary Care)

One year of post-MSW professional clinical experience at the GS-9 level (for GS-11 consideration).
Doctoral degree in Social Work (can substitute for one year of experience).
Experience in complex crisis intervention and psychosocial assessment.
Strong knowledge of medical and mental health diagnoses and community resource coordination.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year.
✓11 paid Federal holidays.
✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
✓Child care subsidy program for eligible employees.
✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% matching contributions.
✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs.

💡 How to Apply Social Worker (Home-Based Primary Care) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Social Worker (Home-Based Primary Care) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your resume according to the specific federal formatting requirements.
Download and complete the required one-page Clinical Resume document if applicable.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package including transcripts and licensure documentation through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume details specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position held.
Do not make assumptions about your experience; explicitly state your duties to match the qualification requirements.
Ensure your license status is clearly documented and up to date.
Double-check that all required documents, including SF-50s for current federal employees, are uploaded to prevent disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is telework available for this position?

No, this is an on-site position focused on home-based primary care delivery.

What is the education requirement for this role?

A Master’s degree in Social Work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited school is mandatory.

Are there specific physical requirements?

Yes, the role requires moderate lifting (15-44 lbs) and the ability to operate a motor vehicle.

What is the trial period?

New federal employees must complete a 1- or 2-year trial period to evaluate fitness and performance.

Do I need a driver's license?

Yes, because this is a home-based care role, you will be required to drive to patient locations.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the nation’s largest integrated healthcare system. Our "I CARE" core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide every interaction we have with our patients. Working in Walla Walla offers a unique lifestyle, combining the professional rewards of the VA with the charm of a town consistently ranked among the best small towns in the United States, famous for its scenic beauty and community spirit.