Serving Those Who Served: Rehabilitation Counselor Careers at the VA

Are you looking for a career that combines clinical expertise with a deep sense of purpose? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a dedicated Rehabilitation Counselor in Manchester, New Hampshire. This role is not just a job; it is a commitment to assisting the brave men and women who have served in our nation’s military by helping them navigate physical, psychological, and vocational challenges.

Job Responsibilities

As a Rehabilitation Counselor, you will serve as a journey-level professional providing a spectrum of services, including:

Vocational Assessment: Utilizing psychometric tools to evaluate transferrable skills, interests, and functional capacity.
Treatment Planning: Developing patient-centered plans with measurable, realistic, and time-based goals.
Community Integration: Using evidence-based models to assist Veterans in securing competitive employment and educational goals.
Case Coordination: Managing caseloads to maximize independent functioning through therapeutic interventions.

Role Comparison

Feature	GS-09 Level	GS-11 Level
Experience Requirement	Entry-level (Basic requirements)	One year of specialized experience
Focus	Core counseling & case management	Advanced intervention & strategy
Autonomy	High support	Higher level of clinical autonomy

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following mandatory criteria:

U.S. Citizenship.
A master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from an accredited institution.
Valid Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Ability to pass a mandatory background check and physical exam.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range between $84,579 and $109,959 per year, commensurate with grade levels and experience. Federal employees also benefit from structured step increases and the potential for career progression within the agency.

Benefits

Working with the VHA provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Robust health, vision, and dental insurance programs.
Generous annual and sick leave accrual policies.
Predictable work schedules that promote a healthy work-life balance.
Access to Federal retirement programs, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Clearly indicate hours worked per week, as this is used to calculate experience.
Use Official Templates: Ensure you download and use the specific clinical resume template required by the VA.
Submit All Documents: Double-check your application for transcripts, licenses, and, if applicable, SF-50 forms.

If you are ready to use your counseling skills to empower Veterans in Manchester, we encourage you to review the full job posting and prepare your application package. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization that truly values your contribution to the well-being of our Veterans.

Why This Rehabilitation Counselor Job Matters

Empower our nation's heroes by providing critical vocational guidance and therapeutic support as a Rehabilitation Counselor for the VA in Manchester, NH.

Rehabilitation Counselor Job Overview

Join the Veterans Health Administration in Manchester, New Hampshire, as a Rehabilitation Counselor. In this role, you will be instrumental in assisting Veterans who face physical, psychosocial, and psychological barriers to employment. You will work within the Mental Health Department to provide comprehensive vocational assessments, design individualized treatment plans, and facilitate successful transitions into competitive employment and independent living. This is a full-time, impactful role dedicated to honoring those who have served.

Requirements for Rehabilitation Counselor

United States Citizenship
Master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or clinical rehabilitation counseling from a CACREP-accredited program
Current, full, and unrestricted Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination
Background and security investigation clearance
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program

Preferred Qualifications for Rehabilitation Counselor

Prior professional experience in vocational rehabilitation
Documented experience with customized employment models and evidence-based vocational practices
Experience working with military populations and understanding the unique dynamics of combat Veterans

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Generous paid time off and leave accrual
✓Predictable and flexible scheduling options
✓Access to a vast, technology-advanced integrated healthcare network
✓Professional growth and leadership opportunities
✓Supportive work-life balance initiatives

💡 How to Apply Rehabilitation Counselor Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Rehabilitation Counselor Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Download and complete the required clinical resume document.
Upload your resume, transcript, and any applicable supporting documentation (e.g., SF-50, licenses, DD-214).
Submit your full application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume details specific dates, duties, and hours worked per week for each listed role.
Upload the specific VA clinical resume template provided in the job description to the restricted field.
Review your transcript to ensure it meets accreditation requirements before submission.
Monitor your status through your USAJOBS dashboard to stay informed throughout the selection process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am currently in the process of obtaining my CRC certification?

Yes, graduate RCs who meet all other requirements may be appointed on a temporary basis for up to two years while pursuing certification.

Is this position remote?

No, this is not a virtual position, although telework may be available at the supervisor's discretion.

What is the work schedule for this role?

This is a full-time position requiring 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM EST.

What if I don't have my CRC yet?

You may be eligible for a temporary appointment while you pursue your certification, provided you meet all educational requirements.

How often are applications reviewed?

Qualified candidates are referred every other week starting August 12, 2026.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the nation’s largest integrated healthcare system. Guided by the core values of Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—often referred to as 'I CARE'—the VA provides world-class care and support to Veterans and their families. Joining the VA means becoming part of a community that values professional growth, compassion, and innovation.