Become a Mental Health Leader: Social Worker Program Coordinator at the VA
Are you a seasoned social work professional looking to transition into a high-impact leadership role? The VA Boston Healthcare System is currently recruiting for a Social Worker (Program Coordinator) to serve as the Assistant Director of Outpatient Mental Health. This is a vital position within one of the nation’s most robust healthcare networks.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the cornerstone of outpatient mental health operations. Key responsibilities include:
- Leadership: Overseeing clinical team leaders and managing staff performance.
- Administrative Oversight: Developing standard operating procedures, managing budgets, and analyzing program data.
- Clinical Care: Maintaining direct patient interaction through assessment, psychotherapy, and case management.
- Strategic Development: Collaborating with leadership to set departmental priorities and resource allocation.
Role Complexity Comparison
| Feature | Clinical Social Worker | Program Coordinator (GS-13) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Direct Patient Care | Clinical + Administrative Leadership |
| Supervisory Duties | None/Minimal | Full Personnel Management |
| Fiscal Responsibility | None | Program Budgeting/Contracts |
| Strategic Impact | Individual Patient Level | System-Wide Policy Level |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet strict federal standards:
- Education: A Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution is mandatory.
- Licensure: You must hold an active state license that allows for independent, clinical-level social work practice.
- Experience: Candidates must demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level (or equivalent) in a clinical and administrative capacity.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $128,686 to $167,294 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the federal benefits package is one of the best in the industry, featuring robust retirement plans, health insurance, and significant leave accrual. Notably, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
If you are ready to combine your clinical expertise with administrative excellence to serve our nation’s Veterans, the VA Boston Healthcare System offers an ideal environment for your career growth. Apply today to contribute to the mission of compassionate whole-health care.
Why This Social Worker (Program Coordinator) Job Matters
Lead transformative mental health initiatives at the VA Boston Healthcare System and directly impact the lives of our nation's Veterans.
Social Worker (Program Coordinator) Job Overview
The VA Boston Healthcare System is seeking an experienced Social Worker to serve as a Program Coordinator and Assistant Director of Outpatient Mental Health. In this high-level role, you will lead multidisciplinary teams, oversee clinical operations, and shape policy for mental health programs across multiple campuses and outpatient clinics. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to integrate administrative leadership with direct patient care, backed by the comprehensive support of the federal healthcare system.
Requirements for Social Worker (Program Coordinator)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Current state license or certification for independent clinical practice
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Ability to undergo background/security investigation and credentialing
- Completion of mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker (Program Coordinator)
- At least 3 years of supervisory or managerial experience
- Experience in program coordination and clinical policy development
- Strong analytical skills regarding clinical data and resource management
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary medical teams
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200k)
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401K with 5% matching
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 50 days annually)
- ✓Paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidy program
💡 How to Apply Social Worker (Program Coordinator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker (Program Coordinator) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement requirements.
- Prepare your resume with detailed job duties, start/end dates, and work hours.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documents: transcripts, proof of licensure, and SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; avoid generalizations about your experience.
- Ensure your resume includes detailed descriptions of your clinical and managerial duties.
- Double-check your eligibility for the EDRP if you have student loans.
- Check your application status regularly via the USAJOBS portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position remote?
No, this is not a virtual position and requires on-site attendance in the Jamaica Plain area.
Can I apply if my social work license is pending?
Basic requirements mandate active licensure; however, consult the announcement regarding specific provisional status if applicable.
What is the EDRP?
The Education Debt Reduction Program is a VA initiative that provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualifying professionals.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to fulfilling the promise to care for those who have served our country. Joining the VA Boston team means becoming part of a community that values Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. As a Level 1A facility, the VA Boston Healthcare System provides advanced, integrated care across multiple campuses, offering unparalleled opportunities for career advancement and professional satisfaction.