Advance Your Career as a Senior Social Worker in Substance Use Disorder
Are you a dedicated clinician passionate about serving those who served our country? The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System is looking for a Senior Social Worker to lead impactful treatment for Veterans with substance use disorders. This is a unique opportunity to apply your advanced clinical skills within a supportive, mission-driven federal healthcare environment.
About the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System
The VA is more than a workplace; it is a community committed to President Lincoln’s promise to provide excellent, compassionate care to Veterans and their families. As a Senior Social Worker in Gainesville, you will join a multidisciplinary team focused on Whole Health, utilizing evidence-based practices to improve the lives of our nation’s heroes.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Social Worker, you will operate at the top of your license. Key responsibilities include:
- Direct Clinical Care: Conducting thorough psychosocial assessments and providing individual, group, and family psychotherapy.
- Program Leadership: Working closely with the Substance Abuse Treatment Team (SATT) to design, measure, and improve treatment outcomes.
- Mentorship: Providing clinical supervision to interns, students, and other healthcare staff.
- Outreach: Coordinating services to ensure Veterans in the North Florida/South Georgia catchment area receive seamless, high-quality care.
Role Comparison
| Feature | Entry-Level Social Worker | Senior Social Worker (GS-12) |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Required | Varies | 2+ Years Post-Licensure |
| Supervision Level | Under Supervision | Provides Supervision |
| Impact Level | Task-Oriented | Program/System Design |
| Autonomy | Supervised | Independent/Advanced Practice |
Qualifications and Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program and possess a current, independent-level license. You must demonstrate advanced practice skills, including the ability to incorporate complex clinical diagnosis into treatment planning.
Salary and Benefits Overview
This role offers a competitive salary range of $100,090 to $130,120 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides an unmatched benefits package, including:
- Student Loan Repayment: Potential for up to $200,000 via the Education Debt Reduction Program.
- Retirement: Access to a federal pension and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
- Work-Life Balance: 37-50 days of paid time off per year including leave and federal holidays.
Application Tips for Success
- Format Matters: Use the standardized VA resume document provided on the VA Careers website.
- Be Specific: Ensure your application explicitly details your clinical experience, especially regarding substance use disorders and specialized treatment modalities.
- Submit Early: This position is open until October 30, 2026, but the agency reviews and refers candidates on a rolling basis.
If you are an experienced social worker ready to make a significant impact on Veteran health, this role in Gainesville offers the stability, compensation, and mission-focused environment you are looking for. Apply today to help us provide world-class care to our Veterans.
Why This Senior Social Worker - Substance Use Disorder Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by leading specialized substance use disorder treatment programs in Gainesville.
Senior Social Worker - Substance Use Disorder Job Overview
The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker to join the Substance Abuse Treatment Team (SATT). This role is vital to our mission of providing compassionate, whole-health care to Veterans navigating complex substance use and mental health challenges. You will act as a clinical leader, providing psychotherapy, conducting psychosocial assessments, and shaping the future of our specialized treatment services in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker - Substance Use Disorder
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- Valid, independent-level state license to practice social work.
- At least two years of post-licensure clinical experience.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Ability to complete a successful background and security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker - Substance Use Disorder
- Board certification in substance use disorder treatment.
- Proven experience with medication-assisted treatment and trauma-informed care.
- Expertise in clinical supervision for unlicensed or multi-disciplinary staff.
- Experience with outcome evaluation and policy development in a healthcare setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (up to $200,000 for qualified candidates)
- âś“Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance
- âś“Federal pension plan and 401k with matching contributions
- âś“Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 paid holidays
- âś“Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- âś“Childcare subsidy for eligible families
đź’ˇ How to Apply Senior Social Worker - Substance Use Disorder Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker - Substance Use Disorder Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume using the standard VA format.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including your Master's transcript and current advanced license.
- Submit your application package before the cut-off date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your clinical experience and specific specialized skills.
- Download and use the specific VA resume template provided in the job announcement.
- Apply as soon as possible, as applications are referred on a rolling basis.
- Double-check that your license information is current and clearly documented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. Eligibility and award amounts are determined based on an application submitted after your appointment.
Is this position eligible for Veterans' preference?
No, this occupation is exempt from Veterans' preference due to being listed on the annual determination of staffing shortages.
Is this a remote role?
No, this position is based in Gainesville, Florida, and requires regular presence for clinical activities.
Can I substitute a doctorate for the Master's degree?
No, the Master’s in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school is a strict requirement.