Advance Your Career: Social Worker Program Manager at VA Puget Sound
Are you a dedicated social worker with a passion for leadership and improving the quality of care for those who served? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for an experienced professional to fill the role of Social Worker (Program Manager) for the Outpatient Mental Health Section at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System in Tacoma, Washington. This role offers the opportunity to influence strategic care models and lead a dynamic team in a highly respected healthcare system.
Job Responsibilities
The Program Manager functions as a Director of the Outpatient Mental Health Section. Your duties include:
- Clinical Leadership: Managing the day-to-day operations and coordinating services between acute, inpatient, and outpatient programs.
- Administrative Management: Developing policy, managing budgets, and overseeing staff development and performance evaluations.
- Quality Assurance: Implementing data-driven processes to track initiatives and ensure all programs meet national standards.
- Collaboration: Engaging with both internal VA stakeholders and external community partners to ensure seamless patient care.
Requirements
To be eligible for this GS-14 position, you must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a Master’s degree from a CSWE-accredited school.
- Hold an active, independent clinical license.
- Demonstrate at least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is competitive, reflecting the high-level responsibilities of the role.
| Pay Scale | Minimum Salary | Maximum Salary | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-14 | $141,367 | $183,782 | Per Year |
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust federal benefits package:
- Extensive leave options (vacation, sick, and federal holidays).
- Federal health and life insurance that can follow you into retirement.
- Retirement savings through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Support for work-life balance through parental leave and childcare assistance.
Application Tips
Submit a clear, detailed resume that emphasizes your administrative experience. Because the hiring panel cannot make assumptions about your history, explicitly describe your experience in managing budgets, personnel, and large-scale clinical programs. Ensure your license documentation is current and clearly presented.
This role is an excellent opportunity for an established leader to guide mental health strategy at a flagship VA facility. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenge, submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
Why This Social Worker (Program Manager) - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job Matters
Lead a mission-critical mental health team and directly impact the lives of our nation's Veterans at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System.
Social Worker (Program Manager) - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking an experienced Social Worker to serve as the Program Manager for the Outpatient Mental Health Section at the American Lake Division. In this pivotal leadership role, you will manage administrative operations, oversee clinical programming, and ensure that Veterans receive top-tier, integrated mental health care. This is a high-level position requiring advanced clinical expertise, organizational leadership, and a commitment to patient-centered, data-driven outcomes within one of the nation's most complex healthcare systems.
Requirements for Social Worker (Program Manager) - Outpatient Mental Health Section
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Current licensure or certification to independently practice at the master's degree level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Registration with the Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959)
- Ability to complete a background/security investigation
- Must meet influenza vaccination requirements for VHA personnel
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker (Program Manager) - Outpatient Mental Health Section
- One year of experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in a clinical or administrative role
- Proven history of program coordination across multiple sites
- Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, fiscal controls, and contract oversight
- Experience in developing organizational policy and practice guidelines
- Strong personnel management skills including performance evaluation and staff development
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases
- ✓Generous Paid Time Off: 13-26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
- ✓Federal pension and 401K-style plan with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance
💡 How to Apply Social Worker (Program Manager) - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker (Program Manager) - Outpatient Mental Health Section Job
- Create a USAJOBS account or log into an existing one
- Complete the occupational questionnaire
- Prepare your long-form resume or CV, transcripts, and proof of licensure
- Submit your complete application package via the USAJOBS portal by the closing date
- Monitor your email for status updates and interview notifications
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume to demonstrate how your experience meets the GS-14 level requirements
- Ensure all documentation is submitted as a single, complete package before the deadline
- Clearly highlight your experience in managing staff, budgets, and strategic initiatives
- Double-check your licensure documentation to ensure it matches the state requirements for independent practice
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of this role?
The incumbent manages the administrative and clinical aspects of the Outpatient Mental Health Section at the American Lake Division, ensuring high-quality, coordinated care for Veterans.
Is this a remote or telework position?
This position is based in Tacoma, WA. While Ad-hoc telework may be available, it is not a virtual position and requires on-site presence.
What type of licensure is required?
You must hold an active license or certification that allows you to independently practice clinical social work at the master's degree level.
What is the trial period for this job?
As a condition of employment, you will serve a 1-2 year trial period to evaluate your fitness and alignment with agency goals.
Can I use foreign education?
Yes, but you must include a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System (VAPSHCS) is one of the most complex and robust healthcare environments in the country. As a Level 1a teaching hospital, it provides comprehensive services ranging from primary care to specialized psychiatric and rehabilitation support. Working here means joining a mission-driven organization committed to "caring for those who have borne the battle."