Empowering Veterans: Your Career as a HUD-VASH Social Worker in Anchorage

Are you a licensed social worker looking to make a transformative difference in the lives of those who have served our country? The Alaska VA Healthcare System is actively seeking a compassionate and skilled Social Worker to join the HUD-VASH (Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing) program. This role is not just a job; it is an opportunity to serve as a cornerstone of support for Veterans in Anchorage, Alaska, who are navigating the challenges of housing instability.

Job Responsibilities

As a HUD-VASH Social Worker, you will operate as a member of a multidisciplinary team. Your primary duties include:

Providing intensive case management for Veterans.
Applying the "Housing First" model to facilitate rapid housing placements.
Conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments.
Developing individualized treatment plans to improve housing retention.
Coordinating with community resources and governmental agencies.
Engaging in outreach to assist Veterans in securing safe and stable living environments.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

U.S. Citizenship.
Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school.
Current, unrestricted state license to practice independently.
Proficiency in English.
Ability to pass a physical exam and secure clearance to drive government vehicles.

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position is highly competitive, reflecting the clinical expertise required.

Grade Level	Salary Range
GS-9	$73,992 (Min)
GS-11	$116,387 (Max)

Benefits

Choosing a career with the VA means accessing one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the country. Employees enjoy:

Financial Security: Traditional federal pension and a 401K-style plan with employer matching.
Loan Forgiveness: Potential eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Work-Life Balance: Up to 50 days of paid leave annually, including sick time and federal holidays.
Family Support: Paid parental leave and childcare subsidies for eligible employees.

Application Tips

Be Detailed: Your resume must demonstrate clear alignment with the required duties. Do not assume the reviewer knows your background; explicitly list your tasks and responsibilities for every role held.
Formatting Matters: Include start and end dates (Month/Year) and the number of hours worked per week for each entry.
Stay Organized: Ensure all supporting documents, especially your Master’s degree transcripts and professional licenses, are ready for upload.

Becoming a HUD-VASH Social Worker in Anchorage is a calling for those dedicated to social justice and clinical excellence. With federal benefits, EDRP potential, and the chance to change lives daily, it is a career path that offers both personal satisfaction and professional growth.

Why This Social Worker (Hud-Vash) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact in the lives of Veterans experiencing housing instability. Join the Alaska VA Healthcare System in Anchorage and provide life-changing clinical support as a HUD-VASH Social Worker.

Social Worker (Hud-Vash) Job Overview

The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join the Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) program. In this role, you will provide intensive case management and clinical mental health services, utilizing the 'Housing First' evidence-based model to assist Veterans in securing and maintaining permanent housing. You will work within a multidisciplinary team to provide outreach, psychosocial assessments, and long-term support for those facing socioeconomic challenges.

Requirements for Social Worker (Hud-Vash)

U.S. Citizenship (with limited exceptions for non-citizens when qualified citizens are unavailable).
Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
Current state-issued license or certification to independently practice social work at the master's level.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Must possess a valid driver's license and be cleared to operate a government vehicle.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
Ability to complete a 1-2 year trial period.
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker (Hud-Vash)

Prior professional experience working with homeless or housing-insecure populations.
Previous employment experience within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Demonstrated expertise in clinical case management.
Clinical experience in mental health or acute/chronic illness settings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary with regular increases.
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid Federal holidays.
✓Comprehensive federal insurance plans (health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care).
✓Federal 401K-style retirement plan with employer matching.
✓Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) student loan reimbursement.
✓Paid parental leave.
✓Childcare subsidy program.
✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical consultation.

💡 How to Apply Social Worker (Hud-Vash) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Social Worker (Hud-Vash) Job

Create a profile on USAJOBS if you have not already done so.
Prepare a detailed, long-form resume that includes full-time/part-time status, hours per week, and specific dates of employment.
Gather supporting documentation, including your Master's degree transcript and proof of licensure.
Complete the full online application questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
Submit your entire application package before the deadline or the closing of the continuous announcement.

💡 General Tips

Be explicit in your resume: Detail every duty performed under each job title, as the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
Ensure your resume shows dates of employment in Month/Year format.
If you are a veteran, include your DD-214 for consideration.
Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account regularly after submission.
Double-check that your license is valid and that you have uploaded all required certification documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HUD-VASH program?

HUD-VASH (Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing) is a collaborative program that combines VA case management services with housing vouchers to help homeless Veterans find and sustain permanent housing.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is not a virtual position. It involves community-based services and outreach in the Anchorage, Alaska area.

Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?

For GS-9 levels, the VA may waive the licensure requirement temporarily while you complete your state examination, provided you meet other qualifications. For GS-11 and above, full licensure is mandatory.

What is the target population for this role?

You will be primarily working with homeless or housing-insecure Veterans with high service needs.

Can I receive relocation assistance?

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is not authorized for this specific vacancy.

How long is the application open?

This is an open continuous announcement, but you should submit your package as soon as possible for the best chance of referral.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The Alaska VA Healthcare System (AVAHS) serves as a vital resource throughout the state, providing comprehensive, whole-health care. Based in Anchorage, the AVAHS offers a vibrant professional environment with access to modern amenities and unparalleled natural beauty, from mountain hiking to wildlife photography.