Advance Your Career as a Senior Social Worker with the VA
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to transition your clinical expertise to a mission-driven environment? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a Senior Social Worker for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Twin Falls, Idaho. This position offers a unique blend of clinical challenge, professional growth, and the opportunity to serve those who have sacrificed for our country.
Job Responsibilities
The Senior Social Worker (GS-12) will function as a vital member of the Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) team. Primary duties include:
- Advanced Clinical Care: Providing evidence-based psychotherapy for psychiatric and behavioral disorders.
- Crisis Management: Performing risk assessments, suicide prevention, and safety planning for high-risk Veterans.
- Consultation & Advocacy: Serving as a clinical expert to provide guidance to primary care teams and colleagues.
- Community Outreach: Developing professional relationships through presentations and coordination with military organizations.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
- State licensure for independent clinical social work at the advanced practice level.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Salary and Compensation Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-12 |
| Annual Salary | $89,508 – $116,362 |
| Schedule | M-F, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Education Benefits | EDRP (up to $200,000) |
Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, the VA offers one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the country, including:
- Retirement: Traditional federal pension combined with a 401(k)-style investment plan with agency matching.
- Leave: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Insurance: Extensive options for health, dental, vision, and long-term care.
- Work-Life Balance: Paid parental leave and potential childcare subsidies for eligible families.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume template; downloading and using this is highly recommended for accuracy.
- Detail Your Experience: Be explicit about your clinical work, specifically with DSM-5-based disorders and crisis intervention.
- Prepare for Verification: Ensure your licensure information is up to date, as this will be verified during the selection process.
This position is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide high-quality care to our nation's heroes. If you possess the clinical expertise and the heart to serve, we encourage you to apply and join a team that makes a profound difference every single day.
Why This Senior Social Worker Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by joining the Veterans Health Administration as a Senior Social Worker in Twin Falls, Idaho.
Senior Social Worker Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Social Worker to join the Veterans Health Administration team in Twin Falls, Idaho. This role offers the chance to provide high-level clinical services, crisis intervention, and specialized support to our nation's Veterans. This position is perfect for an advanced practitioner who is passionate about helping Veterans navigate mental health challenges and who values a collaborative, mission-driven work environment.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school
- Current state-level clinical licensure for independent practice at the advanced level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Must pass a background/security investigation
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker
- At least two years of post-licensure experience in specialized clinical social work
- Advanced training or certification in specialized psychotherapeutic modalities
- Proven track record in suicide risk assessment and safety planning
- Experience in clinical consultation, education, and policy development
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal retirement pension and 401K-style savings plan
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 26 days annual leave + 13 sick days + 11 holidays)
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months
- ✓Child care subsidy program for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker Job
- Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare your documents: License, Transcript, and Resume (using the recommended VA Clinical Resume template).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline of September 8, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the online portal to receive email notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your clinical experience and licensure status.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid delays in processing.
- Double-check that all required documents, including transcripts and licenses, are attached.
- Be specific in your application regarding your experience with mental health disorders and crisis intervention.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the closing date approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program approval.
What is the expected work schedule?
The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is not a virtual position, though it does offer ad hoc telework opportunities per agency policy.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military and their families. Joining the VHA means becoming part of a community that values compassion, clinical excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration.