Advance Your Social Work Career with the VA in Lincoln, Nebraska
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to transition into a high-impact clinical environment? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a Senior Social Worker for the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Lincoln, Nebraska. This role offers the rare combination of professional growth, significant student loan repayment opportunities, and the daily satisfaction of serving those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
The Senior Social Worker serves as a critical member of our interdisciplinary BHIP team. You will collaborate with psychiatrists, psychologists, nurse case managers, and pharmacists to provide comprehensive mental health services. Key duties include:
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Participating in weekly case reviews to discuss complex clinical cases and optimize treatment plans.
- Crisis Management: Providing immediate intervention for Veterans experiencing mental health or social crises.
- Clinical Consultation: Offering advanced psychosocial expertise to internal teams and medical facility committees.
- Assessment: Conducting thorough clinical and psychosocial screenings to identify strengths and needs.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-12 position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Master's Degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school. |
| Licensure | Current state license for independent clinical practice. |
| Experience | 2+ years post-licensure; 1 year at the equivalent of GS-11. |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizenship required. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $92,643 to $120,438 per year. Beyond the salary, our compensation package includes:
- EDRP Eligibility: Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan debt reduction.
- Leave: 13–26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401k plans with employer contributions.
Application Tips
When applying, please ensure your application package is comprehensive. We do not make assumptions about your experience, so provide a detailed document outlining your Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). Highlight specific achievements in clinical assessments, psychotherapy, and interdisciplinary team participation to stand out to our hiring panel.
Working as a Senior Social Worker for the VHA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the highest standards of mental health care. If you are an expert clinician looking to contribute to a system that values your skills and supports your professional development, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Senior Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job Matters
Advance your clinical career in the heart of Nebraska while providing transformative mental health care to those who have served our nation.
Senior Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker for the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Lincoln, Nebraska. This role offers the opportunity to provide high-level clinical services, crisis intervention, and case management within an integrated, interdisciplinary care team. We are looking for an expert practitioner who is ready to make a significant impact on Veteran health and well-being in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip)
- United States Citizenship (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Current state licensure or certification for independent clinical practice at the master's level.
- Minimum of two years of post-licensure experience in a specialized social work setting, including at least one year equivalent to the GS-11 level.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to obtain and maintain state-required supervision credentials if applicable.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip)
- Experience in behavioral health interdisciplinary team models.
- Advanced training or certifications in specific clinical modalities.
- Documented skill in crisis intervention and psychosocial assessment for high-risk populations.
- Proven ability to provide clinical consultation and mentorship to colleagues and students.
- Experience in policy development and system-level outcome evaluation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases.
- ✓37-50 days of annual paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- ✓Paid parental leave (up to 12 weeks).
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible families.
- ✓Comprehensive Federal retirement package including 401K with employer matching.
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full position vacancy announcement and questionnaire.
- Prepare your resume, master's degree transcript, and professional license documentation.
- Draft a document addressing your Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs).
- Upload all required documents through the USAJOBS online portal.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire and submit your final application package before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Explicitly address each KSA in your supporting documents as we do not make assumptions based on your resume alone.
- Ensure your license verification and transcripts are clearly attached.
- Highlight specific experience with interdisciplinary teams and crisis management in your CV.
- Review your status in the USAJOBS portal periodically after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualifying applicants.
What is the work schedule?
This is a standard weekday role with hours from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
No, this position is open to current federal employees and the general public, though veterans and transitioning service members are encouraged to apply.
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an onsite position located in Lincoln, Nebraska.*
What is the trial period?
*A: New hires are required to serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and mission alignment.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System provides exceptional medical care to more than 56,000 Veterans across the region. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for our Veterans, their families, and survivors. Operating in a 'Whole Health' model, we empower our patients to take charge of their well-being within a supportive, collaborative environment. Lincoln, a vibrant city with a low cost of living and a high quality of life, serves as a cornerstone of our regional network.