Become a Patient Aligned Care Team Social Worker with the VA
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to transition into a career where your work directly honors those who have served our country? The Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Gaylord, Michigan, is currently hiring a Social Worker for the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT). This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a comprehensive, whole-health model of care that prioritizes the needs of our Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a PACT Social Worker, you are the link between the Veteran and their medical team. Your daily tasks will include:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Performing psychosocial evaluations to identify barriers to health and well-being.
- Care Coordination: Collaborating with physicians, nurses, and community agencies to ensure a seamless healthcare experience.
- Treatment Implementation: Using evidence-based practices to assist individuals and families in coping with medical, psychiatric, and social challenges.
- Advocacy: Helping Veterans navigate their benefits and connect with essential governmental and community resources.
Qualifications
To qualify for the GS-11 position, you must meet the following baseline standards:
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | Master’s degree in Social Work (CSWE accredited) |
| Licensure | Current independent practice license at the master's level |
| Experience | 1+ years of post-MSW experience in healthcare or social work |
| Language | Proficient in spoken and written English |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $86,729 to $112,754 per year. Beyond the competitive base pay, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package designed to support both your professional and personal life.
Benefit Highlights
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Traditional federal pension and a 401K plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- Insurance: Access to federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
- Work-Life Balance: Options for paid parental leave and childcare subsidies for eligible families.
Application Tips
To stand out during the review process, ensure your resume is detailed and maps directly to the duties listed in the announcement. Because HR specialists cannot make assumptions about your background, clearly define your experience—including volunteer work. Use the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA to ensure your application is processed efficiently.
A career with the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to service. If you are a licensed social worker eager to provide exceptional care to our nation's Veterans, we encourage you to apply for this position in Gaylord, Michigan, before the closing date.
Why This Social Worker - Patient Aligned Care Team Job Matters
Join the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center and make a profound difference in the lives of those who served our nation as a Patient Aligned Care Team Social Worker.
Social Worker - Patient Aligned Care Team Job Overview
The Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Gaylord, Michigan, is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT). In this role, you will act as a vital coordinator of care, focusing on prevention, health promotion, and chronic disease management. You will work within an interdisciplinary team to create Veteran-centric treatment plans that address psychosocial needs and empower Veterans to achieve their highest level of independence.
Requirements for Social Worker - Patient Aligned Care Team
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted licensure to independently practice social work at the master's level
- Minimum of one year of post-MSW experience at the GS-9 level in a healthcare or related setting
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker - Patient Aligned Care Team
- Experience with interdisciplinary team collaboration
- Proficiency in evidence-based treatment modalities
- Strong knowledge of community resources and benefit programs for Veterans
- Doctoral degree in social work (may substitute for one year of professional experience)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave per year
- ✓13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Federal pension and 401K retirement plans with matching contributions
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance options
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible families
- ✓Flexible scheduling opportunities
💡 How to Apply Social Worker - Patient Aligned Care Team Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker - Patient Aligned Care Team Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided link.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including your license and transcripts.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online portal.
- Submit your full application package, including your resume and required certifications, before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and detailed in your resume regarding your experience to avoid assumptions by HR.
- Ensure all documentation is uploaded correctly to the appropriate sections in the application portal.
- Check the status of your application regularly by logging into your USAJOBS account.
- Verify that your professional license is active and documented for the state where you are practicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a PACT Social Worker?
A PACT Social Worker functions as a care coordinator, working with a panel of Veterans to provide comprehensive primary care, focusing on disease management, health promotion, and social support.
Is relocation assistance available for this position?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What are the specific document requirements for the application?
You must submit a professional license, a current resume (using the standard VA clinical template), and academic transcripts.
Is there a trial period for this role?
Yes, all new federal employees are required to complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.
Are there travel requirements?
While primarily based in the main hospital, you may occasionally participate in community events.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working at the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center means joining a community of professionals who value integrity, advocacy, and excellence. We pride ourselves on offering a supportive environment that emphasizes professional growth and work-life balance.