Advance Your Career: Senior Social Worker at VA Puget Sound
Are you a seasoned clinical social worker dedicated to serving those who have served our country? The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is currently hiring a Senior Social Worker for the Veterans Intensive PTSD (VIP) program in Tacoma, Washington. This role offers a unique opportunity to work within a highly specialized, multidisciplinary team environment.
About the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is a Level 1a facility—the highest complexity designation in the VA system. We provide extensive, compassionate care to Veterans across multiple settings, including residential mental health programs, inpatient units, and outpatient clinics. Our commitment to the 'I CARE' core values (Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence) defines our culture and our mission.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Social Worker, you will operate within the MHRRTP (Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program) at our American Lake location. Key responsibilities include:
- Direct Clinical Care: Delivering individual, family, and group psychotherapy.
- Case Management: Coordinating care plans, discharge planning, and resource linkage.
- Clinical Leadership: Serving as a subject matter expert and providing supervision to students and interns.
- Program Development: Participating in quality improvement and policy development.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate and timely records in our electronic health system.
Comparison of Senior Roles
| Feature | Senior Social Worker (GS-12) | Standard Social Worker (GS-11) |
|---|---|---|
| Licensure | Advanced Clinical Practice | Independent Licensure |
| Leadership | High (Consultant/Supervisor) | Moderate |
| Clinical Focus | High Acuity/Specialized | Generalist/Case Management |
Requirements for Success
You must hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school and possess a current state license to practice independently. Success in this role requires at least two years of post-licensure experience and a strong background in evidence-based trauma treatment.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $104,892 to $136,362 per year, commensurate with experience. Beyond the salary, VA employees enjoy:
- Generous leave packages (37-50 days total including holidays).
- Robust Federal health and life insurance options.
- A secure retirement through the Federal 401K (TSP) and pension.
- Paid parental leave and childcare subsidies.
How to Apply
- Visit the USAJOBS portal and log in.
- Use the official VA Clinical Resume document template.
- Upload all required transcripts and licensure proof.
- Submit your questionnaire by August 26, 2026.
Joining the VA Puget Sound team is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in Veteran care. If you meet the qualifications and possess the passion to improve the lives of our nation's heroes, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Senior Social Worker - Veterans Intensive Ptsd (Vip) Program Job Matters
Advance your career as a Senior Social Worker, providing life-changing support to Veterans at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System in Tacoma.
Senior Social Worker - Veterans Intensive Ptsd (Vip) Program Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker for our Veterans Intensive PTSD (VIP) Program at American Lake. In this role, you will provide specialized clinical services to Veterans within a 64-bed residential treatment environment, working alongside a multidisciplinary team to deliver evidence-based care, complex case management, and clinical leadership.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker - Veterans Intensive Ptsd (Vip) Program
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school
- Current state-issued license to practice clinical social work independently at the master's level
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- At least two years of post-licensure clinical experience
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker - Veterans Intensive Ptsd (Vip) Program
- Training and certification in Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy
- Training and certification in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- Familiarity with EMDR, CBT for Nightmares, Written Exposure Therapy, or Adaptive Disclosure
- More than three years of experience in trauma treatment, particularly with Veterans
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Annual paid time off: 13-26 days of vacation, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Federal 401K retirement plan with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker - Veterans Intensive Ptsd (Vip) Program Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker - Veterans Intensive Ptsd (Vip) Program Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Download the required standard Clinical Resume template from the VA Careers website.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, professional license, transcripts, and any applicable supporting documents (e.g., SF-50, DD-214).
- Submit your final application package before the closing date of August 26, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your post-licensure clinical experience.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid disqualification.
- Double-check that your state-level clinical licensure is active and documented.
- Review your application for completeness before hitting submit; missing documents cannot be added after the deadline.
- Be prepared to discuss your specific experience with trauma-informed treatment modalities during a potential interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Social Worker role?
This position is centered on the Veterans Intensive PTSD (VIP) program, providing direct clinical care, case management, and therapeutic interventions to Veterans struggling with trauma.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the American Lake campus in Tacoma, Washington.
What are the specific vaccination requirements?
As a healthcare professional at the VA, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory unless a medical or religious exemption is approved.