Advance Your Career as a Social Worker at the VA
Are you a dedicated clinical social worker looking to make a profound difference? The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Social Worker to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Oswego, New York. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who have served our country by providing evidence-based, compassionate mental health care.
Job Responsibilities
As a BHIP Social Worker, you will play a central role in outpatient mental health services. Key responsibilities include:
- Clinical Intervention: Providing individual and couple psychotherapy using trauma-informed, recovery-focused approaches.
- Assessment: Conducting thorough psychosocial assessments and developing collaborative treatment plans.
- Crisis Management: Performing rapid assessments and creating effective safety plans for patients in crisis.
- Collaboration: Working alongside an interdisciplinary team to ensure coordinated care and treatment plan adherence.
- Professional Development: Staying current with evidence-based practices and providing consultation to clinical staff.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- Full and unrestricted license to practice independently.
- Completion of a background investigation and drug screening.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $85,249 - $110,830 per year |
| Paid Time Off | 50 days (combined leave/sick/holiday) |
| Student Loans | EDRP up to $200,000 eligibility |
| Parental Leave | 12 weeks of paid leave |
Application Tips
Success in the federal hiring process starts with precision. Ensure you use the specialized Clinical Resume template provided by the VA website. Be clear and specific in your resume regarding your clinical experience, as hiring managers cannot make assumptions about your skills. Always double-check your application for missing documentation before the September 30, 2026, deadline.
Working for the VA is more than just a job; it is a mission. If you are a licensed social worker with a passion for mental health and a heart for service, apply today to help us support the Veterans who have given so much.
Why This Social Worker (Bhip Therapist) Job Matters
Join the VA in Oswego, NY, as a Social Worker in the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation.
Social Worker (Bhip Therapist) Job Overview
The Syracuse VA Medical Center is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Social Worker to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) team. Based at the Oswego Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), this role provides critical mental health support to Veterans, including recovery-oriented psychotherapy, psychosocial assessments, and crisis intervention. You will work in an interdisciplinary setting, utilizing evidence-based practices to ensure our Veterans receive the comprehensive, trauma-informed care they deserve.
Requirements for Social Worker (Bhip Therapist)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Current, full, and unrestricted clinical licensure to practice independently at the master's level.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Completion of a background/security investigation.
- Must be able to receive the annual seasonal influenza vaccination.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker (Bhip Therapist)
- At least one year of post-MSW clinical experience in a healthcare or mental health setting.
- Demonstrated expertise in evidence-based psychotherapeutic modalities like CBT or CPT.
- Experience conducting psychosocial assessments and developing crisis management plans.
- Ability to provide clinical consultation to interdisciplinary staff and trainees.
- Strong knowledge of medical and psychiatric diagnostic terminology.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Generous Paid Time Off: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 Federal holidays.
- ✓12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401K-style thrift savings plan with employer matching.
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees.
💡 How to Apply Social Worker (Bhip Therapist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker (Bhip Therapist) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume using the required Clinical Resume template provided on the VA Careers site.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including your clinical license, transcripts, and any applicable veteran status documentation (e.g., DD-214, SF-50).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
- Use the provided standard Clinical Resume document template to ensure your application passes initial screenings.
- Double-check that all licenses are active and clearly documented in your file.
- Monitor your email frequently after applying for status updates from the hiring office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for eligible candidates.
What is the primary work location?
This position is based at the Oswego, New York, Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) under the oversight of the Syracuse VA Medical Center.
Can I work remotely?
*A: No, this is an onsite position based at the Oswego CBOC.*
Is a doctorate required?
*A: No, a Master's in Social Work is the mandatory educational requirement.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VHA is committed to a "Whole Health" approach that focuses on the individual's physical, mental, and social well-being. By joining the Syracuse VA Medical Center team, you become part of a network dedicated to clinical excellence, innovation, and unwavering support for our military heroes.