Advance Your Career as an Outpatient Social Worker with the VA

Are you a licensed clinical social worker looking to transition your skills into a high-impact role? The VA Northern Indiana Health Care System is currently hiring an Outpatient Social Worker in Peru, Indiana. This position serves our nation’s Veterans by providing essential mental health support, clinical assessment, and care coordination.

Job Responsibilities

In this clinical role, you will perform a wide range of professional social work duties, including:

Clinical Assessments: Conducting thorough psychosocial evaluations to determine the needs of Veterans and their families.
Treatment Planning: Working within interdisciplinary teams to develop resident-centered care plans.
Crisis Support: Providing counseling and supportive groups for individuals facing complex psychiatric, medical, and social challenges.
Resource Coordination: Serving as a vital liaison between Veterans, VA programs, and community governmental services.

Position Comparison

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$77,249 - $100,430 per year
Location	Peru, Indiana
Education Req	Master's Degree in Social Work
Licensure	Independent Clinical License Required
Telework	Ad Hoc Eligibility

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements, including U.S. citizenship, English proficiency, and possession of a master's degree from a CSWE-accredited program. You must also maintain a full, valid, and unrestricted independent social work license.

Salary and Benefits

The GS-11 position offers a competitive salary range. Furthermore, successful candidates may qualify for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement. Employees also enjoy federal benefits, including robust health insurance, retirement options, and generous paid time off.

Application Tips

Be Specific: When describing your clinical experience, detail your specific contributions and outcomes.
Documentation: Ensure all documents, including transcripts and licenses, are legible and current.
Follow Deadlines: The application portal closes strictly at 11:59 PM ET on the specified date.

Serving as a Social Worker within the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of those who have sacrificed for our country. If you are an independent practitioner ready to make a difference in Peru, Indiana, submit your application today.

Why This Social Worker (Outpatient) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the VA Northern Indiana Health Care System as a clinical Outpatient Social Worker.

Social Worker (Outpatient) Job Overview

The VA Northern Indiana Health Care System is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Social Worker to provide high-quality, outpatient mental health care. In this role, you will work within an interdisciplinary team to assess, treat, and support Veterans navigating complex medical and psychosocial challenges. This position is ideal for a licensed clinical professional committed to a Whole Health approach, where you will empower Veterans to improve their health outcomes through evidence-based practice and community resource coordination.

Requirements for Social Worker (Outpatient)

U.S. Citizenship
Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Current, full, valid, and unrestricted independent social work license or certification
Proficiency in spoken and written English
Completion of a pre-employment physical examination
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Successful completion of a background/security investigation

Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker (Outpatient)

At least one year of post-MSW clinical social work experience (GS-11 level)
Experience providing outpatient mental health care
Demonstrated expertise in psychosocial assessment and interdisciplinary treatment planning
Strong knowledge of community resources and government service referrals

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
✓Paid annual leave and sick leave accrual
✓Opportunities for professional growth and continuing education
✓Flexible scheduling and ad-hoc telework options per agency policy

💡 How to Apply Social Worker (Outpatient) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Social Worker (Outpatient) Job

Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
Review the full vacancy announcement and preview the online questionnaire.
Prepare your long-form resume or CV, social work license, and transcripts.
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
Submit your application and all required documentation before the closing date.
Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation notifications.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is detailed; highlight specific clinical experience and relevant competencies.
Double-check that your license is current and clear.
Submit all required documents, including transcripts, in the requested format to avoid disqualification.
Review your responses to the online assessment carefully before submission.
Contact the provided agency email if you experience technical issues applying online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?

Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on eligibility and program approval.

Can I work remotely?

This position is not virtual, though it offers ad-hoc telework eligibility depending on specific agency policies.

What level of license do I need?

You must possess a current, valid, and unrestricted state license or certification to independently practice social work at the master's degree level.

What is the trial period for this job?

*A: New hires typically serve a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.*

Do I need to be a veteran to apply?

*A: No, this position is open to the public.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families." As part of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), the Northern Indiana Health Care System provides a comprehensive, whole-health approach to primary and mental health care across various community clinics.