Empowering Veterans: Careers in Rehabilitation Counseling at the Syracuse VA

Are you a dedicated professional looking to align your career with a mission that truly matters? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of support for those who have served our nation. As a Rehabilitation Counselor at the Syracuse VA Medical Center, you will play a pivotal role in helping Veterans navigate life-changing transitions. This position offers a unique blend of clinical counseling and vocational support designed to foster independence and recovery.

Job Responsibilities

As a Rehabilitation Counselor, your daily work will be varied and impactful. Key responsibilities include:

Individualized Counseling: Providing personal adjustment and therapeutic rehabilitation services.
Vocational Assessment: Administering psychometric tests to evaluate transferable skills and career interests.
Employer Partnerships: Building relationships with local businesses to open doors for Veteran job placement.
Case Coordination: Working with interdisciplinary teams to ensure every Veteran has a personalized service plan.

Requirements

To succeed in this role, candidates must meet rigorous standards, including:

Master's degree from a CACREP-accredited program or equivalent.
Current, unrestricted CRC certification.
A valid state-issued driver's license and a clean driving record.

Grade Level Comparison Table

Feature	GS-09	GS-11
Experience Requirement	Entry-level (Basic requirements)	1 year of professional experience
Primary Focus	Development & Assessment	Journey-level intervention & coordination
Autonomy	Supervised caseloads	Advanced caseload management

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $97,087 annually, depending on your qualifications and grade level.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides access to excellent benefits, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement plans (FERS and TSP).
Generous leave accrual policies.
Job stability in the excepted service.

Application Tips

Use the Template: Follow the VA’s specified resume format to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
Be Detailed: Clearly outline your past experience and how it aligns with the competencies listed.
Stay Timely: Submit all required documentation before the September 9, 2026, deadline.

Serving those who have served us is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and empathy. Apply today to help Veterans in Syracuse build a brighter, more independent future.

Why This Rehabilitation Counselor Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Syracuse VA Medical Center as a Rehabilitation Counselor.

Rehabilitation Counselor Job Overview

The Syracuse VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Rehabilitation Counselor to join our Vocational Rehabilitation Services team. In this role, you will provide critical clinical and case management services to Veterans facing physical, mental, or psychosocial barriers to employment and independence. Working within an interdisciplinary team, you will utilize evidence-based counseling practices to help our heroes navigate their path to recovery, community reintegration, and competitive employment.

Requirements for Rehabilitation Counselor

Must be a United States citizen.
Hold a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
Possess current, full, and unrestricted certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC).
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Must possess a valid, unrestricted state driver's license and maintain a safe driving record.
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and motor vehicle operator fitness check.
Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Rehabilitation Counselor

Prior professional experience in vocational rehabilitation or clinical counseling settings.
Experience working with military Veterans or populations with severe disabilities.
Proficiency in administering and interpreting vocational assessment tools.
Knowledge of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) models.
Strong networking skills for building community and employer partnerships.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Federal retirement pension and thrift savings plan matching.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Meaningful work with a direct impact on Veteran well-being.

💡 How to Apply Rehabilitation Counselor Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Rehabilitation Counselor Job

Review the full job announcement on the official federal portal.
Create or update your profile on the site.
Download the standard Clinical Resume document template provided by the VA.
Upload the required Clinical Resume and any additional supporting documentation (transcripts, licenses, etc.).
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Submit your application before the closing date of September 9, 2026.
Complete any required USA Hire assessments if notified via email.

💡 General Tips

Follow the resume formatting instructions carefully; failing to use the provided template may impact your candidacy.
Be specific and clear when describing your professional experience in your resume.
Ensure all educational transcripts and professional certifications are clearly attached.
Check your application status regularly through the portal dashboard.
Prepare to dedicate uninterrupted time for the online assessment if requested.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Rehabilitation Counselor at the VA?

You will serve as an advocate and guide for Veterans with disabilities, providing clinical counseling, vocational assessments, and job development services to help them secure meaningful employment.

Is a driver's license required for this role?

Yes, you must possess a valid, unrestricted driver's license, as the position requires operating government vehicles to assist in transporting Veterans.

Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?

The primary requirement is U.S. citizenship. Non-citizens may only be appointed if it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens per VA policy.

What is the work schedule?

This is a Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM position.

Is telework available?

No, this position requires in-person attendance at the medical center.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Syracuse VA Medical Center is part of the Veterans Health Administration, the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We provide comprehensive, compassionate care to Veterans, honoring their service through evidence-based clinical practices and a whole-health approach to well-being.