Advance Your Career as a Supervisory Social Worker with the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a passionate, experienced leader to fill the role of Supervisory Social Worker at our Vet Center in Silver Spring, Maryland. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have defended our country. If you are an experienced clinician looking to transition into a high-impact leadership role, this may be the perfect next step in your career.
Job Responsibilities
As a Vet Center Director, you will provide administrative and clinical oversight for a multidisciplinary team. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Clinical Supervision: Guiding social workers and other mental health staff to provide high-quality care.
- Operational Management: Managing fiscal, contractual, and operational requirements of the center.
- Outreach & Advocacy: Building relationships with community partners and representing the VA to Congressional representatives.
- Strategic Planning: Implementing agency policies and evaluating the efficacy of clinical programs within your service area.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Education: A Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school.
- Licensure: You must hold a valid state license to practice social work independently at the master's level. Advanced practice licensure is required for supervisory status.
- Experience: Applicants must demonstrate at least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
Salary Overview & Comparison
The position offers a competitive salary range of $90,925 – $118,204, depending on experience and qualifications. Below is a breakdown of why a federal career in social work stands out:
| Feature | Federal VA Role | Private Sector Role |
|---|---|---|
| Salary Growth | Regular Step Increases | Performance-based/Negotiable |
| Retirement | Pension + 401(k) Match | Typically 401(k) only |
| Student Debt | EDRP Reimbursement | Employer Dependent |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 Days | 15-25 Days average |
Benefits
The VA offers one of the most robust benefits packages in the country. Highlights include:
- EDRP: Up to $200,000 in student loan debt reduction.
- Time Off: Over 5 weeks of total leave annually.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous parental leave and childcare subsidies.
- Security: Federal health, dental, and life insurance that can continue into retirement.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the provided Clinical Resume document template on the application site.
- Be Detailed: Clearly document every year of your clinical and supervisory experience.
- Stay Organized: Ensure all your transcripts and licensure documents are current and uploaded correctly.
Serving as a Supervisory Social Worker at the VA offers the rare combination of professional growth and personal fulfillment. If you are ready to lead, mentor, and provide vital services to our nation's Veterans, we encourage you to apply by the September 8, 2026 deadline.
Why This Supervisory Social Worker Job Matters
Lead with purpose: Become a Supervisory Social Worker and champion the mental health and well-being of America's Veterans at the Readjustment Counseling Service.
Supervisory Social Worker Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Supervisory Social Worker to serve as a Vet Center Director in Silver Spring, Maryland. In this critical leadership role, you will oversee clinical operations, staff development, and community outreach for the Readjustment Counseling Service. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide direct care while managing a multidisciplinary team dedicated to supporting combat Veterans, military families, and individuals impacted by military service-related trauma.
Requirements for Supervisory Social Worker
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold a Master's degree in Social Work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program.
- Possess an active state license or certification to independently practice social work at the master's degree level.
- Advanced practice level licensure required for supervisory duties.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical and background investigation.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Social Worker
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
- Demonstrated expertise in clinical supervision and staff mentorship.
- Proven track record in managing multidisciplinary mental health teams.
- Ability to analyze organizational problems and implement data-driven solutions.
- Experience in community outreach, program coordination, and stakeholder engagement.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Federal pension and 401(k) retirement plans with 5% matching
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (annual, sick, and holidays)
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
- ✓Regular salary increases and federal career development
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Social Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Social Worker Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare your resume, academic transcripts, and professional licensure documents.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume template.
- Submit your application and complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for the recruiter to make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your license is clearly listed and valid for independent practice.
- Double-check that you have uploaded all required documents, including the specific Clinical Resume template.
- Submit well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Highlight your experience with military populations or readjustment counseling if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is a site-based position located in Silver Spring, Maryland, requiring on-site leadership and coordination.
What is the EDRP?
The Education Debt Reduction Program is a VA initiative that provides student loan reimbursement to eligible professionals, up to $200,000.
Can other mental health professionals apply?
Yes, this is a multidisciplinary position. Psychologists, Marriage & Family Therapists, and Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselors are also encouraged to check for their specific job announcements.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, relocation assistance is not authorized for this position.*
What is the trial period?
*A: New federal employees must complete a 1-2 year trial period to assess performance and fit.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Readjustment Counseling Service (RCS) is a vital branch of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). We are dedicated to providing compassionate, whole-health care to combat Veterans, their families, and those who have suffered military sexual trauma. Our Vet Centers act as community hubs, offering counseling, outreach, and referral services to ensure that no Veteran is left to struggle in isolation.