Embark on a Meaningful Career: Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class care and support to those who have defended our country. As a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC), you stand at the forefront of this mission, transforming the lives of disabled veterans by facilitating their path to gainful employment and personal autonomy. This position offers a unique blend of clinical counseling and case management within the federal government.
Job Responsibilities
As a VRC, your days will be dynamic and impactful. You will:
- Perform evaluations: Conduct assessments to determine a veteran’s needs, strengths, and vocational objectives.
- Develop Plans: Create individualized rehabilitation programs that outline clear goals and necessary services.
- Provide Counseling: Offer adjustment and career counseling, utilizing various methods including tele-counseling.
- Collaborate: Work closely with schools, military bases, and other community partners to coordinate essential support services.
- Manage Cases: Maintain comprehensive case documentation and monitor progress to ensure successful outcomes.
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, candidates must demonstrate both educational and professional commitment:
- Education: A Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Clinical Rehabilitation, Counseling Psychology, or a closely related field.
- Experience: Either a supervised internship during your studies or one year of post-master’s experience in professional vocational rehabilitation.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Assessment: Must successfully complete the required USA Hire competency-based assessments.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-09 | Master’s Degree | Base qualification |
| GS-11 | Master’s Degree | 1 year specialized experience |
| GS-12 | Master’s Degree | 1 year specialized experience at GS-11 level |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range from $70,623 to $133,142 per year, depending on the grade level and relevant experience of the selectee.
Benefits
- Comprehensive federal health and life insurance plans.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid leave for holidays, vacation, and sick time.
- A structured environment with clear promotion potential to the GS-12 level.
Application Tips
- Keep it Brief: The two-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Focus on results-oriented language.
- Check Your Documentation: Ensure your transcripts and SF-50 forms are accurate and clearly display your qualifications.
- Prepare for Assessments: Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire process and review the resources provided in the applicant portal.
Serving as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor is more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring our veterans have the tools to thrive in civilian life. If you possess the clinical expertise and the passion for service, we encourage you to apply and help continue the legacy of care at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why This Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Job Matters
Empower the heroes who served our nation by becoming a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Your expertise in guidance and case management can change lives.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated professionals to serve as Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors within the National Capital Regional Benefits Office. In this role, you will play a critical part in helping disabled veterans transition into meaningful employment and achieve greater independence. You will manage a diverse caseload, conduct comprehensive vocational evaluations, and coordinate rehabilitation services tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.
Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Completion of a Master's degree or higher in rehabilitation counseling, clinical rehabilitation counseling, counseling psychology, or social work.
- Completion of a supervised internship in rehabilitation counseling or one year of post-master's experience in professional vocational rehabilitation services.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Ability to complete a one-year probationary period.
- Pass a background/security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
- Experience managing caseloads involving individuals with diverse disabilities including mental health, cognitive, and physical impairments.
- Expertise in vocational testing administration and interpretation.
- Strong interpersonal skills for effective counseling and partner collaboration.
- Proficiency in professional case documentation and federal reporting standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive Federal Salary
- âś“Comprehensive Health Insurance options
- âś“Life Insurance programs
- âś“Federal Retirement System (FERS) benefits
- âś“Generous Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and career progression
đź’ˇ How to Apply Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather your Master's degree transcripts and relevant SF-50 forms.
- Create or update your profile on the official federal recruitment portal.
- Submit your application and required documentation by the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire competency-based assessments via the provided link.
- Monitor your status through your applicant account.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Use the resume builder to ensure you meet the two-page limit requirement.
- Align your resume language with the specific competencies mentioned in the job description.
- Double-check your SF-50 forms to ensure they clearly verify your time-in-grade.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
- Complete assessments as soon as possible after submission if prompted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a virtual position. While situational telework may be approved on a case-by-case basis, you are required to report to the office for your regular duty schedule.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes exceeding two pages will result in ineligibility for the position.
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?
Yes, relevant volunteer experience, including service through programs like the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, can be credited towards your qualifications.
What is the promotion potential for this role?
This position has a career ladder progression, meaning you may be promoted up to the GS-12 level as you meet regulatory and performance requirements.
How do I handle foreign education credentials?
If your degree is from a foreign institution, you must include a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript to receive credit.
Is telework an option?
This position allows for situational telework on a case-by-case basis, but it is not a routine or fully remote position.
Job from Veterans Benefits Administration
The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) manages the Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) program. This vital service helps veterans with service-connected disabilities develop the skills and training necessary to succeed in the workforce. By joining the National Capital Regional Benefits Office, you become part of a dedicated team that values compassion, integrity, and excellence in service.