Make a Difference: HCHV Outreach Social Worker Position at VA Salt Lake City
Are you a dedicated social worker looking for a role that bridges clinical expertise with impactful community service? The Department of Veterans Affairs is currently seeking a passionate Social Worker for the Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) program in Salt Lake City. This position offers a unique chance to work on the front lines of veteran care, ensuring that those who have served our country receive the support and resources they need to thrive.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will serve as a vital link between homeless veterans and the services they require. Your daily duties will include:
- Conducting outreach in the community, including shelters, clinics, and non-traditional settings.
- Performing comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments to identify veteran strengths and needs.
- Developing individualized treatment plans in collaboration with an interdisciplinary team.
- Coordinating housing and community resource referrals.
- Providing crisis intervention and mental health support.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific federal requirements:
- A Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- Valid, unrestricted licensure for independent social work practice.
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A clean driving record and valid state driver's license.
Salary and Comparison
The position offers a competitive federal salary structure ranging from GS-9 to GS-11. Below is a comparison of potential focus areas for this role:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $72,500 – $114,040 |
| Education Incentive | EDRP (up to $200,000) |
| Primary Setting | Community/Field Based |
| Target Population | Homeless Veterans |
Benefits
The VA provides an industry-leading benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, a federal retirement system, and generous annual leave accrual. Additionally, the availability of the EDRP makes this an excellent opportunity for those looking to manage student debt while serving a noble cause.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of selection:
- Tailor your resume to highlight experience with crisis management and vulnerable populations.
- Ensure your license status is clearly documented.
- Clearly articulate your experience with multidisciplinary teams.
The role of an HCHV Outreach Specialist is not just a job; it is a commitment to the wellbeing of our nation's heroes. If you are ready to use your clinical skills in a dynamic, community-focused environment, we encourage you to apply by November 2, 2026.
Why This Social Worker -Health Care For Homeless Veterans Hchv Outreach Specialist Job Matters
Make a tangible impact on the lives of homeless Veterans in the Salt Lake City area while advancing your social work career with the VA.
Social Worker -Health Care For Homeless Veterans Hchv Outreach Specialist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to serve as a Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) Outreach Specialist in Salt Lake City, Utah. In this critical role, you will provide essential outreach, crisis intervention, and case management services to Veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. You will work within the community to connect these individuals with VA resources, housing assistance, and medical support, ensuring they receive the care and respect they earned through their service. This position is perfect for a compassionate professional who thrives on direct community engagement and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Requirements for Social Worker -Health Care For Homeless Veterans Hchv Outreach Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school
- Current state licensure or certification for independent practice at the master's level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Valid state driver's license for community travel
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker -Health Care For Homeless Veterans Hchv Outreach Specialist
- Experience working with homeless populations
- Experience in mental health or substance use disorder settings
- Demonstrated ability to perform biopsychosocial assessments and develop treatment plans
- Strong communication skills for interdisciplinary and community coordination
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Potential for annual leave accrual credit based on prior service
- ✓Professional development and clinical training opportunities
- ✓Supportive work-life balance at a premier teaching hospital
💡 How to Apply Social Worker -Health Care For Homeless Veterans Hchv Outreach Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker -Health Care For Homeless Veterans Hchv Outreach Specialist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare your resume, professional license, and any supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, DD-214).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all required documents by the closing date of November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is detailed and maps your experience to the required KSAs.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your work history; be explicit in your descriptions.
- Submit all required documents early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Double-check your eligibility for veteran's preference if applicable.
- Highlight any volunteer or specialized experience related to homeless services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program approval.
What is the work environment like?
This is a field-heavy position requiring travel in the community to locations like shelters, parks, and resource centers. You will also spend time in an office setting at the Salt Lake City VA campus.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Salt Lake City Health Care System provides exceptional clinical care to over 70,000 veterans across Utah, Idaho, and Nevada. As a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Utah, the system is at the forefront of medical research and technology. Joining this team means contributing to a mission-driven environment where patient-centered care and professional growth are paramount.