Transforming Lives: Social Worker Role at the VA CIRCA Program
Are you a licensed social worker looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with deep professional meaning? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering a unique opportunity to join the Center for Integrated Residential Care for Addictions (CIRCA) at the Brockton campus of the VA Boston Healthcare System. This role is perfect for clinicians dedicated to serving those who have sacrificed for our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Social Worker within the CIRCA program, you will:
- Perform comprehensive psychosocial assessments.
- Develop and implement evidence-based treatment plans.
- Facilitate individual and group therapy sessions.
- Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team to manage substance use and mental health recovery.
- Serve as an expert in community resource navigation for Veterans.
Comparison of GS-9 vs GS-11
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Entry Level / New Graduate | 1+ Year Post-MSW Experience |
| Licensure | May qualify with waiver | Must be fully licensed/independent |
| Responsibility | Foundational social work | Full performance / Independent |
Requirements
Candidates must be U.S. citizens and hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school. Licensure at the independent practice level is mandatory for GS-11 positions. Applicants must also possess strong verbal and written communication skills and be able to successfully pass security and background checks.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $74,625 to $117,382 per year, depending on qualifications, experience, and the specific step assigned upon hire.
Benefits
- Student loan reimbursement via EDRP.
- Comprehensive federal insurance and pension.
- Significant paid leave including sick, annual, and federal holidays.
- Child care subsidies and paid parental leave.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume includes detailed dates of employment, hours worked per week, and specific clinical duties. Always include your licensure details and transcripts to prevent delays in your application processing.
Join us in Brockton, MA, to provide the care and support our Veterans deserve. Apply through the official federal portal today to start your career with the VA.
Why This Social Worker Center For Integrated Residential Care For Addictions (Circa) Job Matters
Empower Veterans in recovery and join a world-class team as a Social Worker at the VA's Center for Integrated Residential Care for Addictions (CIRCA) in Brockton, MA.
Social Worker Center For Integrated Residential Care For Addictions (Circa) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Social Worker to serve at the Center for Integrated Residential Care for Addictions (CIRCA) within the VA Boston Healthcare System. You will work within a 24-bed residential treatment program, providing essential psychotherapy, case management, and crisis intervention for Veterans managing substance abuse and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Requirements for Social Worker Center For Integrated Residential Care For Addictions (Circa)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Valid, unrestricted state license for independent social work practice
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
- Completion of pre-employment health/credentialing processes
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker Center For Integrated Residential Care For Addictions (Circa)
- Experience within a Compensation Work Therapy (CWT) program
- Minimum of one year of post-MSW clinical social work experience
- Experience in substance abuse residential rehabilitation settings
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 paid holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal retirement pension and 401(k) matching program
- ✓Paid parental leave
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
- ✓Occasional telework flexibility
💡 How to Apply Social Worker Center For Integrated Residential Care For Addictions (Circa) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker Center For Integrated Residential Care For Addictions (Circa) Job
- Create a USAJOBS account or log into your existing profile.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare your resume with detailed dates, duties, and professional history.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and proof of licensure.
- Submit your application package before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific about your clinical hours and duties in your resume to avoid assumptions.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly lists your tenure, grade, and service type if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Verify your degree accreditation through official channels before applying.
- Double-check that your licensure status is current and verifiable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EDRP and am I eligible?
The Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) is a student loan reimbursement program offering up to $200,000. Eligibility is determined after appointment by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services office.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position in Brockton, Massachusetts, though occasional ad-hoc telework may be authorized for specific assignments.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
For the GS-9 grade level, VHA may waive the licensure requirement pending examination completion. However, GS-11 positions require an active, independent-level license.
What if my license is from a different state?
As long as your license allows for independent practice, it is generally accepted, but you must ensure it meets VHA standards.
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
Absolutely. This position is open to the public as well as internal candidates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We pride ourselves on the 'I CARE' core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Working at the VA means more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing world-class, whole-health care to our nation's heroes.