Making a Difference: Social Work Careers with the Alaska VA Healthcare System
Are you a licensed Social Worker seeking a career that combines clinical excellence with the spirit of public service? The Alaska VA Healthcare System is actively recruiting for a Social Worker (MHRRTP) in the beautiful city of Anchorage. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide high-quality mental health services to homeless Veterans within our specialized residential programs.
About the Alaska VA Healthcare System
The Alaska VA Healthcare System (AVAHS) serves as a lifeline for our nation's heroes across the vast landscape of Alaska. Based in Anchorage, our facility provides comprehensive healthcare, including behavioral health, residential rehabilitation, and primary care. Our team is guided by the "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.
Living in Anchorage offers the perfect balance between urban amenities and raw, natural beauty. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography, or exploring the cultural richness of the city, Anchorage provides an unmatched quality of life.
Job Responsibilities
As an MHRRTP Social Worker, you will operate within a therapeutic community, providing care for Veterans in Domiciliary Care, Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation (SARRTP), and Compensated Work Therapy programs. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments and screenings.
- Developing individualized treatment plans focusing on recovery and independence.
- Providing evidence-based clinical treatment, including individual and group therapy.
- Coordinating transitions to community resources and other VA services.
- Documenting patient progress and contributing to policy formulation.
Compensation and Grade Comparison
This position is open to both GS-9 and GS-11 candidates, depending on experience and licensure.
| Grade Level | Focus | Licensure Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-9 | Entry/Developmental | Clinical license or eligibility (waivable) |
| GS-11 | Full Performance | Must hold independent practice license |
Salary Range: $73,992 – $116,387 per year.
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this role, you must hold a Master’s degree from an accredited social work program. You must also be a U.S. citizen and meet the standards for independent clinical practice. We are looking for candidates who demonstrate a deep understanding of:
- Medical and mental health diagnoses.
- Crisis intervention techniques.
- Coordination of complex services for marginalized populations.
Why Work for the VA?
Working for the Department of Veterans Affairs is more than just a job; it is a commitment to those who have served our country. Benefits include:
- Retirement: A robust pension plan and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
- Leave: Substantial annual, sick, and federal holiday leave.
- Parental Support: 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
- Insurance: Access to extensive federal health and long-term care plans.
Application Tips
The federal hiring process is rigorous. Ensure your resume is detailed, clearly stating your monthly hours and duties for every position held. Use the language found in the job description to highlight your relevant clinical experiences. Always include proof of your degree and current, unrestricted license.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a specific type of license?
Yes, you must be licensed at the independent practice level for the GS-11 grade. The GS-9 level may have exceptions pending the completion of examination requirements.
Can I move up in grade?
Yes, this position has a full performance level of GS-11, offering a clear path for professional growth.
If you are a compassionate clinician ready to support our Veterans in a beautiful setting, we invite you to apply. The work you do in the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program will directly influence the success and well-being of Veterans returning to independent life. Start your application today and join the mission at the Alaska VA.
Why This Social Worker (Mhrrtp) Job Matters
Empower homeless Veterans on their journey to stability and recovery in the stunning landscape of Anchorage, Alaska.
Social Worker (Mhrrtp) Job Overview
The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to provide essential mental health services within our Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs. You will play a pivotal role in the recovery journey of homeless Veterans, offering clinical case management, advocacy, and therapeutic interventions. Join a facility that values the 'I CARE' principles—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—while enjoying the unique outdoor lifestyle that only Anchorage provides.
Requirements for Social Worker (Mhrrtp)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Current, full, valid, and unrestricted independent state license or certification to practice social work.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Passing a pre-employment physical examination.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Completion of a background and security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker (Mhrrtp)
- Experience working with populations dealing with substance use disorders, homelessness, and vocational challenges.
- Prior professional experience in a mental health residential treatment setting.
- Demonstrated expertise in SUD/addiction treatment modalities.
- One year of post-MSW clinical experience at the equivalent of the GS-9 grade level.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 50 days including holidays, sick, and annual leave)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Social Worker (Mhrrtp) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker (Mhrrtp) Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and proof of licensure.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including SF-50 if applicable.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline on November 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your duties, including start/end dates and average hours worked per week.
- Avoid generic resume templates; tailor your descriptions to match the required clinical skills and KSAs mentioned in the job post.
- Verify that your license is currently active and meets the requirements for independent practice.
- Double-check that your SF-50, if required, includes your tenure code and appointment type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a doctoral degree in social work required?
No, a master's degree from a CSWE-accredited school is the basic requirement. A doctorate may, however, be used to substitute for the one year of required experience for the GS-11 level.
Can I apply if I do not yet have my independent clinical license?
The GS-9 level may allow for a waiver pending state prerequisites, but for the GS-11 level, you must possess an independent practice license or certification.
What is the work environment like?
You will work in a residential treatment setting providing cognitive-behavioral therapy and case management to Veterans experiencing homelessness or addiction issues.