Senior Social Worker: Advance Your Career with the VA in Missouri
Are you a dedicated clinical social worker looking for a career that makes a lasting impact? The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center is seeking a compassionate Senior Social Worker to join our Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) team in Sikeston, Missouri. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who have served our country while working within an agency that values professional excellence, evidence-based care, and a balanced lifestyle.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Social Worker, your primary focus is the delivery of high-level clinical services. Your responsibilities include:
- Clinical Care (90%): Conducting comprehensive assessments, diagnosing mental health disorders, and providing evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions (individual, family, and group).
- Administrative Leadership (10%): Contributing to program development, ensuring compliance with clinical standards and documentation, and coordinating care across various health systems.
- Collaboration: Working as a key member of the interdisciplinary treatment team to ensure our Veterans receive integrated, holistic care.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- Licensure: A current, active state license to practice social work independently at the master’s level.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Physical Standards: Ability to perform standard clinical tasks, including light lifting and coordination.
Comparison: Standard vs. Senior Social Worker
| Feature | Full Performance Level | Senior Social Worker (GS-12) |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Entry to Mid-Level | 2+ Years Post-Licensure |
| Clinical Autonomy | Moderate | Advanced/High |
| Leadership Role | Mentee/Contributor | Supervisor/Coach/Expert |
| Program Involvement | Clinical Delivery | Clinical Program Development |
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for this position ranges from $101,375 to $131,790 per year, depending on qualifications. The VA provides a robust benefits package, including:
- Loan Repayment: Access to the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Generous Leave: 13–26 days of annual leave plus 13 days of sick leave annually.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- Retirement: Participation in the federal pension system and a 401k-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
Working for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have sacrificed for our nation. If you are an experienced social worker ready to step into a leadership role, we invite you to apply. With an affordable cost of living in the Ozarks and the stability of a federal career, this position offers the perfect blend of professional challenge and personal fulfillment.
Why This Senior Social Worker (Bhip) Job Matters
Elevate your clinical practice while honoring our nation’s heroes in the heart of the Ozarks—join the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center as a Senior Social Worker.
Senior Social Worker (Bhip) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Social Worker to join our Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) team in Sikeston, Missouri. In this role, you will provide advanced clinical assessments, psychotherapy, and comprehensive case management for Veterans. You will serve as a key member of a clinical team, working in an environment that prioritizes evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and professional growth.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker (Bhip)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master’s Degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school
- Active, unrestricted license/certification for independent clinical social work practice at the master's level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Completion of a background/security investigation
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Willingness to receive annual influenza vaccination
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker (Bhip)
- Two or more years of post-licensure experience in a specialized clinical social work setting
- Demonstrated ability to perform psychotherapy and advanced case management
- Experience in clinical program development and performance evaluation
- Proven ability to provide clinical supervision and mentorship to students and colleagues
- Certification or advanced training from a nationally recognized professional organization in a specialized area of practice
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- âś“37-50 days of paid time off annually (vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays)
- âś“Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans
- âś“Federal pension plan and 401k-style thrift savings plan with employer matching
- âś“Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- âś“Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees
đź’ˇ How to Apply Senior Social Worker (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker (Bhip) Job
- Create or log in to your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare your resume, ensuring it highlights your clinical experience and specific KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) required for the role.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including your Master’s degree transcript, professional license(s), and any supporting documents like SF-50s or DD-214s.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Tailor your resume to clearly address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the job announcement.
- Ensure your license status is current and verifiable.
- Double-check that all uploads are readable and meet the specific criteria mentioned in the 'Required Documents' section.
- Verify your eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program early in the process.
- Apply well before the deadline to account for any technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position allows for ad-hoc telework as needed, though it is not a fully remote or virtual position.
Can I receive student loan assistance?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualifying participants.
What level of license do I need?
You must possess a state-issued license that allows you to independently practice social work at the master’s degree level (advanced practice).
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to America’s Veterans. The John J. Pershing VAMC is located in Poplar Bluff, MO, serving the regional community with dedication. As a Senior Social Worker, you will be part of a "Fourth Mission" agency, contributing to a team that ensures the preparedness of the nation while providing direct, high-quality care to our Veteran population. We foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, welcoming professionals who are ready to lead and innovate.