Empowering Veterans: Senior Social Worker Career Opportunity in Tacoma
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Senior Social Worker to join the HUD-VASH (Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing) program. This is a rare opportunity for a seasoned professional to play a lead role in addressing veteran homelessness, ensuring that those who served our country have access to stable, safe, and supportive housing.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Social Worker, your day-to-day will involve:
- Clinical Case Management: Managing a caseload of Veterans to ensure their ongoing housing and health needs are met.
- Home Visits: Conducting regular community-based visits to ensure client safety and environment standards.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside VA medical teams, public housing authorities, and community partners.
- Data Management: Utilizing systems like HOMES to track program success and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Mentorship: Providing guidance and consultation to junior staff, trainees, and students.
Requirements
Candidates must meet the following baseline federal requirements:
- Citizenship of the United States.
- A Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- A current, unrestricted license at the advanced practice or clinical level.
- Proof of advanced practice competency.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $104,892 - $136,362 |
| Loan Repayment | Up to $200,000 (EDRP) |
| Schedule | M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Work Environment | Hybrid (Field and Office) |
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume translates your private-sector or clinical experience into federal terminology. Highlight your specific achievements in case management, particularly with underserved populations. Always attach your transcripts and professional license early in the process.
If you are a licensed Social Worker looking for a career that prioritizes service, growth, and clinical excellence, the HUD-VASH program at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System is the ideal path. Apply today to start your journey with the VA.
Why This Senior Social Worker - Hud-Vash Job Matters
Make a transformative impact on the lives of homeless Veterans in the Pacific Northwest by joining the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System as a Senior HUD-VASH Social Worker.
Senior Social Worker - Hud-Vash Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated, mission-driven Senior Social Worker to join the HUD-VASH program in Tacoma, Washington. In this pivotal role, you will act as a primary advocate for Veterans experiencing homelessness, providing critical clinical case management, home visits, and treatment coordination. By joining the VA, you become part of a world-class, interdisciplinary healthcare network committed to the 'I CARE' core values, ensuring those who served our nation receive the holistic support, stability, and care they deserve.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker - Hud-Vash
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
- Active, unrestricted state licensure at the advanced practice (clinical) level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Valid state-issued driver's license
- Ability to operate a government vehicle
- Completion of a background/security investigation
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker - Hud-Vash
- At least 5 years of professional experience in Case Management
- Proven expertise in specialized clinical social work interventions
- Experience working with homeless populations or veteran service organizations
- Ability to navigate complex social service and housing systems
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance plans
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Federal retirement savings (TSP) with agency matching
- ✓Robust professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Work-life balance through structured clinical scheduling
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker - Hud-Vash Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker - Hud-Vash Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and a copy of your advanced practice license.
- If claiming federal hiring preference, include your SF-50 and/or veteran documentation (DD-214).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit all documentation and your final application before the November 9, 2026 deadline.
- Monitor your email for status notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your clinical experience and advanced practice skills.
- Double-check that your license copy is current and clearly shows your level of practice.
- Submit your package well in advance of the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
- Review your responses to the questionnaire carefully; avoid over-estimating experience that cannot be verified by your resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HUD-VASH program?
HUD-VASH stands for Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing. It is a collaborative program that combines HUD housing vouchers with VA supportive services to help homeless Veterans find and sustain permanent housing.
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides reimbursement for qualifying student loans up to $200,000.
What if I have an expired driver's license?
Possession of a valid, unrestricted driver's license is a mandatory requirement for this role, as you will be conducting home visits and potentially transporting Veterans.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to the "I CARE" values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. As the most complex healthcare system in the VA network, the Puget Sound division provides comprehensive services ranging from surgical care to psychiatric support. Joining this team means stepping into an environment of growth, mission-driven work, and systemic impact.