Advance Your Career: Senior Social Worker at the Augusta VA
Are you a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for helping those who have sacrificed for our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly qualified Senior Social Worker to join the Augusta VA Medical Center. Located in the vibrant community of Augusta, Georgia, this role offers the chance to serve our Veterans through specialized substance use recovery services. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to be part of a team committed to excellence and compassionate, whole-health care.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Social Worker within the Substance Use Recovery Center (SURC), your expertise will be instrumental. Your core responsibilities include:
- Clinical Assessment: Conducting thorough psychosocial evaluations regarding substance use, detox needs, and readiness for change.
- Evidence-Based Treatment: Delivering individual, group, and family counseling utilizing evidence-based modalities.
- Care Coordination: Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized treatment plans and managing complex case files.
- Program Development: Participating in quality improvement initiatives, peer reviews, and data-driven analysis of service effectiveness.
- Mentorship: Providing clinical supervision and education to junior social workers and trainees.
Comparison: Standard vs. Senior Social Worker Role
| Feature | Standard Social Worker | Senior Social Worker (GS-12) |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Entry-level/Mid-level | Advanced Practice (2+ years post-licensure) |
| Autonomy | Supervised | Independent practice |
| Specialized Focus | Generalist | Specialized clinical area (SUD) |
| Mentorship | Receiver of mentorship | Mentor to staff/trainees |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Master's degree in Social Work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited school.
- Licensure: Current, valid license to practice social work independently at the master's level.
- Experience: At least two years of post-licensure experience in a clinical setting.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Salary Overview
This position is classified as a GS-12 role. The annual salary range is $92,903 to $120,776, based on qualifications and experience. The VA also provides regular salary increases and cost-of-living adjustments, ensuring competitive pay throughout your federal career.
Benefits
The VA takes care of its own. Employees enjoy a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:
- Leave: Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Retirement: Federal pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k) with agency matching.
- Health: Flexible health, vision, and dental insurance options.
- Flexibility: Paid parental leave and potential childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly states the dates, locations, and descriptions of your clinical practice.
- Align with the Mission: Emphasize your specific experience working with substance use disorders.
- Use the Right Documents: Have your transcripts and license information ready to upload before starting the application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a doctorate in social work required? A: No, a Master's degree from a CSWE-accredited school is the requirement. A doctorate cannot be substituted for this specific degree.
Q: What is the work schedule? A: The schedule is typically Monday through Friday, 8:00am – 4:30pm, though it may be adjusted based on agency needs.
Serving as a Senior Social Worker at the Augusta VA is a rewarding way to impact the mental health of our nation's heroes. If you possess the clinical depth and passion required for this role, we encourage you to apply. Start your journey with the VA today.
Why This Senior Social Worker Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served by joining the VA as a Senior Social Worker in Augusta, Georgia.
Senior Social Worker Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker for the Substance Use Recovery Center (SURC) at the Augusta VA Medical Center. In this pivotal role, you will leverage your advanced clinical expertise to provide specialized psychosocial and case management services for Veterans managing substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. As part of an interdisciplinary team, you will champion recovery, reduce relapse risks, and guide Veterans toward improved health outcomes.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Current, unrestricted state licensure for independent clinical social work practice
- Two years of post-licensure clinical experience, including one year equivalent to the GS-11 level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Commitment to the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker
- Prior experience in substance use treatment programs
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary clinical teams
- Proficiency in delivering brief, evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions
- Skill in conducting focused psychosocial assessments and relapse prevention planning
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular performance-based increases
- ✓Generous paid time off, including 13–26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans
- ✓Traditional Federal pension and 401k-style thrift savings plan with agency matching
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- ✓Childcare subsidies for qualified applicants
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and required documentation list.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume and gather necessary transcripts and licensure documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all supporting documents before the closing date of November 5, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your clinical experience, including specific dates and settings.
- Highlight your specialized work in substance use disorders to align with the SURC mission.
- Double-check that your state social work license is current and documented clearly.
- Submit your application early to avoid potential technical issues on the closing date.
- If you are a veteran or have disability documentation, ensure these are attached to receive priority consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this role?
This position is focused on the Substance Use Recovery Center (SURC) at the Augusta VA, providing clinical support, psychotherapy, and case management for Veterans dealing with substance use and co-occurring disorders.
Are there benefits for family members?
Yes, federal employees have access to robust family health insurance options, life insurance, and potential childcare subsidies for those who qualify.
Is relocation assistance available?
Relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military and for their families and survivors. By joining the Augusta VA, you are joining a network of professionals dedicated to evidence-based practice, innovation, and unwavering support for the Veteran community.