Advance Your Career as a Social Worker with the Alaska VA
Are you a dedicated clinical professional looking to merge your passion for mental health with a commitment to serving those who have served our country? The Alaska VA Healthcare System is currently accepting applications for a Social Worker (MHRRTP) in Anchorage, Alaska. This is a unique opportunity to provide high-quality care within a specialized residential setting.
About the Alaska VA Healthcare System
The Alaska VA Healthcare System (AVAHS) serves the diverse needs of Veterans across the state of Alaska. Located in Anchorage, our facility offers a blend of professional excellence and an incredible quality of life. Anchorage provides modern urban amenities alongside unparalleled access to outdoor adventures, from mountain hiking to wildlife photography. Our "I CARE" values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—define our culture and guide every interaction we have with our patients.
Core Job Responsibilities
As a Social Worker in the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (MHRRTP), you will be at the forefront of veteran recovery. Key duties include:
- Conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments and screening potential residents.
- Developing individualized, cognitive-behavioral treatment plans.
- Providing high-quality case management for homeless veterans.
- Facilitating both individual and group therapy sessions.
- Coordinating with community resources to ensure successful transition to independent living.
- Supervising student trainees and contributing to policy development within the service area.
Requirements for Success
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A master’s degree in social work from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: A current, valid, and unrestricted independent license to practice social work.
- Communication: Proficiency in English.
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Basic requirements met | 1 year post-MSW experience |
| Licensure | May be waived (pending exam) | Mandatory independent license |
| Autonomy | Supervised caseload | Independent clinical practice |
Compensation and Benefits
We offer a highly competitive salary range of $73,992 to $116,387, depending on experience and qualifications. Beyond the base pay, VA professionals receive:
- Time Off: Substantial annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
- Retirement: A robust federal pension plan and 401k matching program.
- Insurance: A variety of federal health, dental, and vision insurance options that often continue into retirement.
How to Apply
Applying for federal positions requires attention to detail. Ensure your resume is in a long-form format that clearly lists your duties, start and end dates, and hours worked. All application materials, including transcripts and license verification, must be submitted through the official portal by the closing date of November 9, 2026.
If you are an experienced social worker ready to make a tangible impact on the lives of veterans, the Alaska VA Healthcare System is the place for you. We invite you to join a supportive, professional environment where your expertise will be valued every single day. Apply now to begin your journey with the VA.
Why This Social Worker (Mhrrtp) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served: Join the Alaska VA as a Social Worker dedicated to helping homeless veterans achieve recovery and independence.
Social Worker (Mhrrtp) Job Overview
The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a compassionate Social Worker (MHRRTP) to join our multidisciplinary team in Anchorage. This role is pivotal in providing clinical mental health services, case management, and advocacy for homeless veterans enrolled in residential rehabilitation programs. You will work within a therapeutic community, utilizing cognitive-behavioral techniques to empower veterans on their path to recovery and self-sufficiency.
Requirements for Social Worker (Mhrrtp)
- United States Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Active, valid, and unrestricted independent social work license or certification
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker (Mhrrtp)
- Experience working with populations facing homelessness and substance use disorders
- Background in mental health residential treatment settings
- Proven experience with vocational rehabilitation challenges
- Formal education in addiction studies
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- âś“37-50 days of paid time off per year
- âś“Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- âś“Federal pension plan and 401k with up to 5% agency matching
- âś“Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
đź’ˇ How to Apply Social Worker (Mhrrtp) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Social Worker (Mhrrtp) Job
- Log in or create an account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume documenting your work experience, dates, and hours worked.
- Gather supporting documents including academic transcripts and professional licensure proof.
- Complete the required online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the 11/09/2026 deadline.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be explicit in your resume; do not assume the recruiter understands your past responsibilities.
- Verify your degree accreditation via the Council on Social Work Education portal before applying.
- Clearly list start and end dates (month/year) for every position held.
- Check your application status regularly through your account dashboard.
- Ensure your license status is current and documented, as this is critical for GS-11 eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
The GS-9 level may allow for an exception pending the completion of licensure requirements, provided you actively pursue certification. GS-11 positions strictly require current independent licensure.
Is telework available for this position?
This is an on-site, residential treatment role; it is not a virtual position, though limited ad-hoc telework may be discussed with your supervisor.
What is the work environment like in Anchorage?
Anchorage offers a high quality of life with access to outdoor recreation like hiking and fishing, no state income or sales tax, and a vibrant community.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work schedule?
This is a standard Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM schedule.