Advance Your Career as a Senior Social Worker with the Central Texas VA
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to make a lasting difference in the lives of those who have served our country? The Central Texas Veterans Health Care System is seeking a highly skilled Senior Social Worker (GS-12) to join our mental health team in Temple, Texas. This is a unique opportunity to provide high-quality clinical care in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
About the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for our Veterans and their families. Our Central Texas system serves 39 counties, with facilities stretching from Temple and Waco to Austin and beyond. As a Complexity Level 1A medical center, we provide a robust, integrated healthcare environment that fosters professional growth, evidence-based practices, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be at the forefront of behavioral health. Your daily duties will include:
- Performing detailed biopsychosocial assessments.
- Facilitating evidence-based individual and group psychotherapy (e.g., CBT, ACT, CPT).
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive recovery plans.
- Providing consultative services to clinical staff and participating in medical center committees.
- Monitoring treatment outcomes to ensure high standards of care for Veterans.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Licensure: A current, active license to independently practice social work at the master’s level.
- Experience: Advanced practice experience in a clinical setting.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-12 |
| Salary Range | $101,994 - $132,595 / year |
| Location | Temple, Texas |
| Application Deadline | September 9, 2026 |
Benefits Overview
Working for the VA comes with a comprehensive total rewards package, including:
- Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): This position is eligible for significant student loan reimbursement.
- Paid Time Off: Generous leave policies including 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 Federal holidays.
- Retirement: Access to the federal pension system and a 401k-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching.
- Work-Life Balance: Competitive scheduling and access to federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Ensure you use the specialized Clinical Resume Document mentioned in the job announcement.
- Be Specific: Quantify your experience. Mention specific caseloads, modalities, and outcomes.
- Early Submission: Do not wait until the final day to submit your package to avoid technical issues.
If you are an experienced social worker ready to transition to a role that rewards your expertise and offers world-class benefits, the Central Texas VA is the place for you. Apply today to start your journey supporting the men and women who served our nation.
Why This Senior Social Worker - Edrp Authorized Job Matters
Advance your clinical career with the Central Texas VA, where your expertise in social work directly impacts the lives of those who served our nation. This GS-12 role is EDRP-authorized, offering significant student loan relief for qualified professionals.
Senior Social Worker - Edrp Authorized Job Overview
The Central Texas Veterans Health Care System is seeking dedicated Senior Social Workers to join our interdisciplinary mental health team in Temple, Texas. As a key member of our staff, you will provide comprehensive clinical services, including evidence-based psychotherapy, suicide risk assessments, and recovery planning for Veterans. This role offers the unique opportunity to work within one of the largest integrated health care systems in the nation, supported by a collaborative environment and a competitive federal benefits package.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker - Edrp Authorized
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Hold a Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Possess a valid, active license to independently practice social work at the master's level
- Demonstrated expertise in specialized social work interventions
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker - Edrp Authorized
- Two years of experience in individual and group therapy for anxiety and depression
- Extensive background in performing mental health diagnoses
- Experience conducting suicide risk screenings and safety planning
- Proven track record of success within multidisciplinary healthcare teams
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (Annual leave, sick leave, and 11 Federal holidays)
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance options
- ✓Federal pension and 401k-style savings plan with matching contributions
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker - Edrp Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker - Edrp Authorized Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document template
- Prepare all necessary supporting documents, including your transcript and professional license
- Submit your application through the official portal by the closing date of September 9, 2026
- Complete the occupational questionnaire embedded in the application system
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA to ensure your application passes the initial screening
- Be highly specific and detailed when describing your clinical experience to help recruiters understand your scope of practice
- Verify that your Master's program is fully accredited by the CSWE before applying
- Double-check that all required documents are uploaded in the correct fields, as omissions can delay your application
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EDRP program?
The Education Debt Reduction Program provides student loan reimbursement for qualifying health professionals. This specific position is EDRP-authorized, meaning you may be eligible for significant loan relief.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position based in Temple, Texas. Ad-hoc telework may be available, but it is not a virtual role.
What is the work schedule?
The schedule is a standard Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM shift.
What if I have questions about the EDRP process?
You can reach out to the EDRP coordinator at the email address provided in the official job vacancy.
Is there relocation assistance?
No, this position does not offer Permanent Change of Station (PCS) relocation assistance.