Making a Difference: Social Work Careers with the VA in Lansing
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to transition your career into a mission-driven environment? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a passionate Social Worker for our Health Care for Homeless Veterans program in Lansing, Michigan. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to serve those who have served our nation while advancing your clinical career in a supportive, evidence-based healthcare environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Social Worker in this specialty program, your primary mission is to end Veteran homelessness through proactive identification and support. Key duties include:
- Assessment: Conducting thorough psychosocial evaluations to understand the needs and strengths of homeless Veterans.
- Treatment Planning: Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to create recovery-oriented treatment paths.
- Case Management: Providing ongoing individual, family, and group counseling.
- Liaison Services: Serving as the bridge between the VA and community resources to ensure Veterans receive holistic support.
- Consultation: Educating staff on social work best practices and navigating VA policies.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-9 to GS-11 role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A Master's degree in Social Work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited school.
- Licensure: You must hold a current, full, and unrestricted license to practice social work independently at the master's level.
- Professional Conduct: Ability to maintain a clean driving record and pass a pre-employment physical.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range and potential for growth.
| Pay Grade | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-9 to GS-11 | $70,459 - $110,830 per year |
Benefits
- Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): Up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
- Federal Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave accrual and 11 paid federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Use your resume to highlight your clinical experience with vulnerable populations.
- Documentation: Ensure your transcripts and state licenses are clear and legible.
- Deadlines: All applications must be submitted via USAJOBS by October 28, 2026.
If you are ready to combine your clinical expertise with a deep commitment to serving our nation's heroes, we invite you to apply. The Lansing community and our Veterans are waiting for your help. Start your application today via the official USAJOBS portal.
Why This Social Worker - (Health Care For Homeless Veterans) Job Matters
Make a tangible impact on the lives of those who served: join the Veterans Health Administration as a Social Worker dedicated to helping homeless Veterans find stability, housing, and integrated care.
Social Worker - (Health Care For Homeless Veterans) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a compassionate and skilled Social Worker for our Health Care for Homeless Veterans program in Lansing, Michigan. You will play a vital role in identifying homeless Veterans, facilitating access to VA healthcare services, and providing ongoing clinical case management. This position is part of a dynamic team at a premier neuropsychiatric facility that serves as a regional hub for mental health care across Michigan.
Requirements for Social Worker - (Health Care For Homeless Veterans)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Active, full, and unrestricted state license to independently practice social work at the master's level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Clean driving record
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker - (Health Care For Homeless Veterans)
- Experience with crisis intervention and complex psychosocial assessments
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement effective treatment plans
- Knowledge of VA benefits and community-based homeless support services
- Ability to function effectively in an interdisciplinary team environment
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βEducation Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- βComprehensive Federal Health and Life Insurance
- βFederal Retirement Plans (FERS)
- βGenerous Annual Leave and Paid Sick Time
- βFederal Holidays
- βCareer growth and leadership development opportunities
π‘ How to Apply Social Worker - (Health Care For Homeless Veterans) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker - (Health Care For Homeless Veterans) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and licensure documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package including all required supporting documents before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your clinical experience and specific social work interventions.
- Check for any state-specific licensure requirements early in the process.
- Review your application thoroughly to ensure all attachments, including transcripts and SF-50s (if applicable), are uploaded correctly.
- Address all KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) thoroughly in your documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000, depending on VHA policy and application approval.
What level of licensure is required?
For this role, you must hold a state-issued, full, and unrestricted license that allows for independent practice at the master's level.
Can I work remotely?
This is not a virtual position; however, it does offer occasional ad-hoc telework opportunities depending on business needs.
What is the EDRP program?
It is a student loan reimbursement program for qualified VHA employees, providing up to $200,000 over 1-5 years.
Can I apply without a license?
Generally, no. This position requires an active, independent clinical license at the time of appointment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional healthcare that improves their lives. Working within the Battle Creek VAMC network, you will be joining a team committed to "Whole Health," an approach that empowers patients to take charge of their well-being. Our facility is a hub for mental health excellence, providing care to over 42,000 Veterans across 22 counties.
