Making a Difference: Social Worker Opportunities at the VA Black Hills Health Care System
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to transition your career into a role that combines clinical excellence with deep personal fulfillment? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a compassionate Social Worker to serve within the Community Living Center (CLC) at the VA Black Hills Health Care System. This position offers a unique chance to provide high-level psychosocial support to Veterans as they navigate palliative and hospice care.
Job Responsibilities
As a CLC Social Worker, you will operate as a vital member of the interdisciplinary team. Your responsibilities include:
- Conducting thorough psychosocial assessments.
- Leading end-of-life and Advance Directive conversations.
- Coordinating care across various medical disciplines.
- Managing a caseload of Veterans with complex physical and emotional needs.
- Providing education and counseling to family members and caregivers.
- Maintaining detailed documentation in electronic clinical records.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $63,272 - $99,528 |
| Employment Type | Full-Time, Excepted Service |
| Location | Fort Meade, SD |
| Education Required | Master's in Social Work (MSW) |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet basic federal requirements, including:
- Citizenship of the United States.
- An MSW from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Valid, independent-level social work licensure.
- Proficiency in English.
- A clean driving record and valid, unrestricted driver's license.
Salary and Benefits
The VA provides a comprehensive compensation package. In addition to a competitive salary, employees receive extensive federal benefits including:
- Retirement: Traditional pension and 401(k) matching.
- Insurance: Robust health, dental, and vision plans.
- Paid Time Off: Generous leave policies including annual, sick, and federal holidays.
- Work-Life Balance: Access to child care subsidies and paid parental leave programs.
Application Tips
Standing out in a federal application requires precision. Ensure your resume clearly outlines your clinical experience and specifically aligns your skills with the requirements listed in the job announcement. Using the official VA resume template is highly recommended for clinical roles.
Serving the Veterans who have protected our freedoms is more than just a job; it is a calling. If you possess the clinical expertise and the heart to support Veterans in their final stages of care, we encourage you to apply for this position today.
Why This Social Worker- Community Living Center Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served by providing compassionate, specialized care at the VA Black Hills Health Care System.
Social Worker- Community Living Center Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join the Community Living Center (CLC) at the VA Black Hills Health Care System in Fort Meade, South Dakota. This pivotal role focuses on delivering high-quality psychosocial support, end-of-life care planning, and case management services for Veterans and their families within inpatient and outpatient settings.
Requirements for Social Worker- Community Living Center
- U.S. Citizenship (with limited exceptions per VA policy)
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution
- Current, unrestricted state license or certification to practice social work at the independent master's level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Valid, unrestricted driver's license
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Completion of a 1-2 year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker- Community Living Center
- Direct experience in Hospice and Palliative Care settings
- Prior experience managing complex psychosocial assessments
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate multi-disciplinary treatment plans
- Capability to provide clinical consultation and supervision to students or junior staff
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (annual, sick, and 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs
- ✓Traditional federal pension with a 5-year vesting period
- ✓401(k) style Thrift Savings Plan with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible families
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
💡 How to Apply Social Worker- Community Living Center Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker- Community Living Center Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume document.
- Prepare your comprehensive CV/resume and academic transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including license verification and transcripts.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
- Use the provided VA template for your clinical resume to ensure your document meets internal formatting requirements.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues near the closing deadline.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents, such as SF-50s or DD-214s, are attached if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This role follows a standard Monday through Friday schedule, from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?
At the GS-9 level, candidates may be considered if they are in the process of obtaining licensure; however, GS-11 positions require an active, independent-level license.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite role based at the Fort Meade facility.
What is the trial period?
Selected candidates must complete a 1-2 year trial period to evaluate performance and agency fit.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to those who have served our nation is a mission of honor. Located in the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota, the VA Black Hills Health Care System provides a serene environment for both staff and patients. With no state income tax and a high quality of life, this region offers an ideal setting for professionals looking to build a long-term career.