Embark on a Meaningful Career as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist with the VA

If you are a professional in the counseling or rehabilitation field seeking a role that combines professional growth with a deep sense of purpose, a position as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist (VRS) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may be the perfect fit. This role offers the opportunity to support the men and women who have served our country as they transition into civilian careers and independent living.

Job Responsibilities

As a VRS, you will manage a caseload of Veterans, acting as the primary point of contact for their rehabilitation journey. Key duties include:

Case Management: Coordinating all aspects of rehabilitation and employment services, including documentation of progress.
Planning: Assisting Veterans in developing and adjusting personalized rehabilitation plans that meet their long-term goals.
Liaison Work: Collaborating with contract service providers to ensure the delivery of high-quality services.
Resource Identification: Researching and leveraging community resources to provide holistic support for consumers.

Comparison of Grade Levels

Feature	GS-09	GS-11
Scope	Entry/Developmental	Full Performance
Education Requirement	Master's or equiv.	PhD or 3 years grad study
Experience Level	1 year at GS-07 equivalent	1 year at GS-09 equivalent

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Education/Experience: Candidates must meet the Individual Occupational Requirement (IOR) by demonstrating either advanced graduate education or specialized experience in counseling, rehabilitation, or a related field.
Documentation: All applicants must submit a resume (limited to 2 pages) and appropriate transcripts to qualify based on education.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $114,413 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a comprehensive benefits package that supports both your career and your personal well-being.

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: The two-page resume requirement is strict. If you exceed this, you may be disqualified.
Quantify Your Experience: Clearly state the average hours worked per week for every position listed.
Tailor Your Content: Align your resume with the specific competencies mentioned in the vacancy announcement, such as 'Planning and Evaluating' or 'Therapy and Counseling.'

Working for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of serving our nation's heroes. By applying your skills in vocational counseling, you contribute to a legacy of support and empowerment. Visit the official job portal today to begin your application journey.

Why This Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job Matters

Empower our nation's heroes by joining the VA as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist. Help Veterans transition to fulfilling careers and independent living in this impactful, mission-driven role.

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job Overview

The Veterans Benefits Administration is seeking dedicated individuals for the Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist (VRS) position within the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program. You will serve as a vital advocate and coordinator, working directly with Veterans to develop, monitor, and adjust their individual rehabilitation plans. This role focuses on guiding Veterans through the complexities of vocational training, employment, and personal adjustment following their military service. This is a standing register announcement, allowing for the continuous filling of vacancies as they occur across multiple locations in the Northeast District.

Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must undergo a background and security investigation.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Ability to complete an online onboarding process.
One to two-year probationary period may be required.
Must be able to provide proof of identity per I-9 requirements.

Preferred Qualifications for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist

Master’s degree or higher in vocational rehabilitation, counseling, or a related field.
Strong background in disability, therapy, health, or human development theory.
Experience in case management and developing rehabilitation plans for individuals with disabilities.
Proficiency in identifying and utilizing community resources to support vocational outcomes.
Demonstrated ability to assist individuals with multiple or chronic disabilities in adjusting to occupational requirements.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Life insurance coverage.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Flexible and compressed work schedules available.
✓Potential for service credit toward annual leave based on non-federal experience.

💡 How to Apply Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job

Review the full announcement details and documentation requirements.
Log in to your USAJOBS profile and ensure your resume is updated (limited to 2 pages).
Click the Apply Online button to complete the required questionnaire.
Upload all supporting documents (transcripts, DD-214, etc.) in PDF format.
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
Monitor your email for a link to complete the required USA Hire Assessments.
Check your application status via your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; longer resumes will be disqualified.
Use clear, results-oriented language rather than copying duties verbatim from the announcement.
Ensure your resume explicitly states hours worked per week and dates for each position.
Save all documents as PDFs to maintain formatting integrity.
Set aside roughly two hours to complete the USA Hire assessments after submitting your application.
Monitor your spam folders for communications from the agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist?

A VRS acts as a case manager and advocate, coordinating rehabilitation services and employment plans for Veterans to help them overcome barriers to gainful employment.

Can I work remotely in this position?

No, this is not a virtual position. While situational (ad hoc) telework may be approved on a case-by-case basis, you are required to report to the official duty station for your assigned schedule.

How often will the agency review applications?

This is a standing register. The first cut-off is November 23, 2026, with subsequent reviews every three weeks until the announcement closes or positions are filled.

Job from Veterans Benefits Administration

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) is tasked with upholding President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served. Through the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, the agency focuses on providing life-changing support, training, and employment services to Veterans and their families. Our culture is built on the "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.