Become a Program Manager at the VA: Leading Care for Our Veterans
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to elevate your career while making a profound difference in the lives of American Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve as a Program Manager and Vet Center Director in Danbury, Connecticut. This leadership role combines clinical expertise with administrative excellence, allowing you to shape the delivery of mental health services in your community.
Job Responsibilities
As the Program Manager and Vet Center Director, you will not only provide direct counseling but also oversee the entire clinical and administrative ecosystem of the center. Key duties include:
- Leadership: Supervising a multidisciplinary team of counselors, social workers, and administrative staff.
- Operational Oversight: Managing fiscal, contractual, and facility operations.
- Outreach: Coordinating community engagement and mobile vet center operations.
- Strategic Planning: Implementing policies, monitoring productivity, and ensuring the highest standards of quality assurance.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 level position, candidates must meet rigorous professional standards:
- Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently.
- Education: A Master’s or Doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Experience: A minimum of one year of specialized, progressively complex experience at the GS-12 level.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | GS-13 |
| Work Schedule | Monday-Friday (8:00am - 4:30pm) |
| Location | Danbury, Connecticut |
| Salary Range | $125,431 - $163,062 |
Salary and Benefits
Beyond a highly competitive salary, the VA offers an exceptional benefits package. A highlight of this position is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement of up to $200,000 for qualifying applicants. You will also enjoy federal retirement planning, comprehensive health insurance, and paid time off.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Ensure you use the VA-standard resume format to avoid disqualification.
- Be Specific: Describe your experience with program management and team leadership clearly.
- Double-Check Documents: Include your license, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference documents (like your DD-214).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is relocation assistance offered? A: No, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is not authorized for this position.
Q: Can I apply for this role as a social worker? A: This specific announcement is for LPMHCs; however, the VA frequently posts multidisciplinary announcements for the same Vet Center Director role open to other clinical disciplines.
This role is more than just a job; it is a leadership position that allows you to advocate for Veterans while refining your operational and clinical skills. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about the VA mission, we encourage you to apply before the deadline to help lead the Danbury Vet Center into the future.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Program Manager) Job Matters
Lead as a Program Manager for the VA’s Readjustment Counseling Services and make a direct, lasting impact on the lives of Veterans in Danbury, CT.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Program Manager) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve as a Program Manager and Vet Center Director in Danbury, Connecticut. In this pivotal role, you will lead a multidisciplinary team providing vital readjustment counseling, outreach, and referral services. You will oversee the administrative and professional operations of the Vet Center, ensuring that combat Veterans, survivors, and their families receive compassionate, world-class care.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Program Manager)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed under specific conditions).
- Hold a Master's or Doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Program Manager)
- At least one year of progressively complex experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
- Demonstrated ability to make complex clinical and administrative judgments.
- Proven experience in program management, including data-driven quality assurance.
- Strong communication skills for coordinating with Congressional representatives and community stakeholders.
- Ability to develop and monitor productivity standards in a clinical setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for student loans).
- ✓Federal leave accrual based on service time.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits.
- ✓Professional development and leadership opportunities.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary, high-impact clinical environment.
💡 How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Program Manager) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Program Manager) Job
- Log in or create a profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Download and prepare the required VA-standard Clinical Resume document.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, professional license, and any required veteran preference documentation.
- Review all application materials for accuracy before the submission deadline.
- Submit your application and monitor your email for status notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—detail your leadership accomplishments and clinical experience.
- Ensure your license status is clearly documented and current.
- Use the provided standard resume template to avoid formatting issues.
- Submit your application early to account for any technical issues.
- Double-check that your transcripts and credentials are legible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualified candidates.
What is the primary role of the Vet Center Director?
The Director oversees all administrative and clinical operations, supervises multidisciplinary staff, manages budgets and community contracts, and ensures veterans receive seamless readjustment counseling services.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this announcement is open to the public as well as internal federal candidates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Readjustment Counseling Service (RCS) is a unique and vital component of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). The mission is clear: to fulfill the nation's promise to provide compassionate, whole-health care to those who have served in combat operations, experienced military sexual trauma, or provided emergency care in theater. By working in a Vet Center, you become the front line of support for Veterans transitioning back to civilian life.