Advance Your Career as a VA Social Worker in Lake City
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's heroes? The North Florida/South Georgia VA Healthcare System is currently recruiting for a Social Worker to join our team in Lake City, Florida. This unique 'Float' position offers professional variety and the opportunity to serve Veterans in multiple clinical environments.
Job Responsibilities
As a float social worker, you will work across different service areas, including the Community Living Center (CLC), Primary Care, and the Emergency Department. Key duties include:
- Performing thorough psychosocial assessments.
- Creating and managing evidence-based treatment plans.
- Providing crisis intervention and discharge planning.
- Facilitating support groups and individual counseling.
- Collaborating with medical staff to ensure coordinated care.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must be a U.S. citizen and possess a master's degree from a CSWE-accredited program. Candidates must hold a valid, independent-level state license for social work.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Education | Master's Degree in Social Work |
| Licensure | State Licensed (Independent Practice) |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Travel | Occasional travel to care sites required |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $62,655 to $111,112 per year. Beyond the salary, VA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including federal retirement plans, high-quality health insurance, and generous paid time off (37-50 days annually).
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA provides a specific resume format; using this ensures your application is processed correctly.
- Be Specific: Do not leave gaps in your work history. Clearly detail how your experience aligns with the required KSAs.
- Verify Documents: Ensure your transcripts and state licenses are clearly scanned and attached.
Joining the VA as a Social Worker is more than just a job; it is a commitment to those who have sacrificed for our country. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply by September 4, 2026.
Why This Social Worker - Float Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by joining our dynamic Social Work team in Lake City, Florida.
Social Worker - Float Job Overview
The North Florida/South Georgia VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to serve in a versatile 'Float' capacity. This role supports the Community Living Center (CLC) while providing essential coverage across various departments, including Primary Care, the Emergency Department, and Medical/Surgical units. You will act as a vital member of interdisciplinary teams, providing clinical assessments, discharge planning, and evidence-based interventions to improve Veteran health outcomes.
Requirements for Social Worker - Float
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school
- State licensure or certification to independently practice at the master's level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Passage of a pre-employment physical examination
- Valid driver's license for travel to various service sites
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker - Float
- One year of professional post-MSW clinical experience equivalent to the GS-9 level
- Doctoral degree in Social Work
- Demonstrated expertise in evidence-based psychotherapies (e.g., CBT, CPT, MI, PST)
- Strong knowledge of medical terminology and mental health diagnosis treatment planning
- Experience coordinating complex discharge planning in medical environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with annual increases
- ✓Federal pension (FERS) and 401k-style TSP with 5% matching
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave plus 13 days of sick leave
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible families
💡 How to Apply Social Worker - Float Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker - Float Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Download and utilize the specific VA resume template provided.
- Gather your MSW transcript and, if applicable, your current professional licensure.
- Submit your complete application, including the questionnaire and all required documents, before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding your status.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
- Use the provided VA resume template to avoid formatting issues.
- Double-check that your license is current and clearly documented.
- Submit your documents well in advance of the September 4, 2026, closing date to avoid technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay scale for this position?
This role is graded from GS-9 to GS-11, with an annual salary range of $62,655 to $111,112, depending on experience and qualifications.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite, in-person position located in Lake City, Florida, requiring travel between care sites.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, new federal employees are typically subject to a 1-2 year trial period to evaluate performance and professional suitability.
Can I telework?
No, this position requires onsite presence and active clinical engagement.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling the promise of President Lincoln: 'To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors.' As part of the VA, you will join a supportive, interdisciplinary team focused on whole-health care and clinical excellence.