Empowering Heroes: Build Your Career as a Social Worker with the VA
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking passionate, qualified professionals for the Readjustment Counseling Service (RCS). This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to supporting the men and women who have sacrificed for our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As an RCS Social Worker, your primary focus will be providing clinical support to help Veterans successfully readjust to civilian life. Key duties include:
- Intake and Assessment: Identifying psychosocial stressors, military history, and potential risks for self-harm.
- Treatment Planning: Developing personalized counseling service plans with measurable goals.
- Crisis Intervention: Conducting timely risk assessments to ensure the safety of Veterans in crisis.
- Care Coordination: Linking Veterans with community and government resources to support their long-term well-being.
- Clinical Documentation: Maintaining accurate, professional records of all clinical interactions.
Requirements
Candidates must meet specific criteria to be eligible for these positions:
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Master’s in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school |
| Licensure | State licensure for independent practice (GS-11) |
| Language | Proficiency in written/spoken English |
Salary and Benefits
The VA offers a highly competitive compensation package. Salaries for these positions range from $70,654 to $124,407 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits include:
- EDRP: Potential student loan reimbursement up to $200,000.
- Time Off: A generous leave package totaling up to 50 days of combined leave and holidays.
- Retirement: Federal pension plan and 401(k) matching.
- Work-Life Balance: Comprehensive insurance options and childcare subsidies.
If you are a licensed social worker with a desire to serve, the VA offers an unparalleled career path. Apply by September 8, 2026, to take the next step in your career and give back to those who have served our country.
Why This Social Worker Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on those who served our country by providing vital mental health support and counseling as a Social Worker with the VA's Readjustment Counseling Service.
Social Worker Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated Social Workers to join the Readjustment Counseling Service. In this role, you will provide essential therapeutic care, crisis intervention, and psychosocial support to Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. This position is central to the VA mission of honoring and supporting our nation's heroes as they transition and readjust to civilian life.
Requirements for Social Worker
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Valid state license or certification to practice social work independently at the master's level (Note: exceptions available for GS-9 grade level).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a background and security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker
- One year of post-MSW professional experience in a clinical health care or social work setting.
- Advanced knowledge of mental health diagnoses, medications, and psychosocial assessment.
- Experience in crisis intervention and treatment planning for trauma-related stressors.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate community services and referrals.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401k (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 26 days annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 paid holidays).
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees.
💡 How to Apply Social Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume, including a copy of your transcript and required licensure documents.
- Download and complete the standard Clinical Resume document template provided by the VA.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Do not assume the hiring manager knows your experience; be specific and detailed in your resume.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
- Check your application status regularly via the USAJOBS portal.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show accreditation from a CSWE-recognized institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. You must apply for the program within four months of your appointment date.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
For GS-9 roles, there are limited exceptions for individuals pending licensure, provided they obtain it within three years. GS-11 roles generally require current independent licensure.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Readjustment Counseling Service is a specialized division of the Veterans Health Administration. It provides essential counseling to Veterans and active-duty service members who have served in combat zones, experienced military sexual trauma, or provided medical/mortuary services during times of conflict. By joining this team, you become part of a compassionate network dedicated to whole-health care.