Launch Your Career as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical expertise with public service? The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) is currently hiring Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists (VRS) to support our nation’s heroes. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about disability advocacy, career development, and social adjustment. By joining the VR&E program, you become a bridge between Veterans and the opportunities they earned.
Job Responsibilities
As a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist, your duties are varied and impactful. You will:
- Case Management: Manage caseloads of Veterans participating in various rehabilitation programs.
- Service Coordination: Act as the primary liaison between Veterans, service providers, and the VA.
- Employment Planning: Develop tailored employment assistance plans and help Veterans assess their job-readiness.
- Resource Research: Identify community resources and funding to support the specific needs of individuals with disabilities.
- Compliance: Maintain accurate case records according to strict VA regulations and professional standards.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several federal requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: A background in vocational rehabilitation, counseling, or related fields is required. Transcripts must be submitted for verification.
- Experience: Candidates must demonstrate specialized experience in rehabilitation, counseling, or health services equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
- Documentation: All applicants must submit a two-page resume that outlines their experience, hours worked per week, and dates of employment.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-09 | Master's degree or 2 years grad education | 1 year specialized experience at GS-07 |
| GS-11 | Ph.D. or 3 years grad education | 1 year specialized experience at GS-09 |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $111,966 annually. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Access to affordable health insurance plans.
- Accrual of annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for federal service credit toward vacation leave based on prior experience.
Application Tips
- Resume Limit: The two-page limit is strictly enforced. Focus on results and specific competencies rather than listing every past duty.
- Cut-off Dates: This is a standing register. Submit your application before the initial cut-off date to ensure your file is reviewed early.
- Assessment Readiness: Prepare for the USA Hire assessment by reviewing resources on the OPM website. Treat the assessment as a professional test of your decision-making and analytical skills.
Being a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the individuals who served our country. If you have the counseling skills and the heart for service, we encourage you to apply and contribute to a mission-driven organization. Submit your application today to start your journey with the VA.
Why This Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job Matters
Empower the heroes who served our nation by facilitating their transition to civilian life and meaningful career paths.
Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job Overview
The Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program is seeking dedicated Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists to join our Continental District. This role is pivotal in guiding Veterans and service members through the rehabilitation process, ensuring they receive the necessary resources, employment services, and support to succeed. As a specialist, you will act as a key liaison, managing caseloads and coordinating with service providers to ensure each participant reaches their unique goals.
Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation
- Completion of a 1- or 2-year probationary period
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages
- Completion of required online assessments as instructed
- Possession of specialized experience or qualifying education in vocational rehabilitation, counseling, or a related field
Preferred Qualifications for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist
- Master’s degree or higher in vocational rehabilitation, counseling, or human development fields
- Proven experience in disability-focused career counseling and adjustment services
- Knowledge of vocational testing, assessment methodologies, and resource development
- Expertise in working with individuals dealing with acute or chronic mental and physical disabilities
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with defined growth potential
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Potential for credit toward annual leave based on previous non-federal experience
- ✓Supportive professional environment rooted in I CARE values
💡 How to Apply Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job
- Review the full job announcement and prepare a two-page resume
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link
- Submit all necessary documentation, including transcripts and veterans' preference documents
- Monitor email for instructions regarding the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments
- Complete all required assessments within the provided timeframe
- Track your application status through your USAJOBS account
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages as required by federal hiring policy
- Focus your resume on results-oriented, concise language that aligns with the specialized experience mentioned
- Submit your application early to be considered for the first cut-off date
- Ensure all documentation, including transcripts, clearly shows degree conferral and course credits
- Do not copy/paste duty descriptions directly into your resume; provide your own authentic professional experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a virtual position. While ad hoc situational telework may be approved by a supervisor, you are expected to report to your official duty station.
What is the education requirement?
You need a degree in vocational rehabilitation, counseling, or a related field. You may substitute graduate-level education for experience depending on the grade level (GS-09 or GS-11).
Can I apply to multiple locations?
No, applicants are restricted to applying to only one location.
What if I have a disability?
The VA provides reasonable accommodations for the assessment process. Please follow the instructions provided in the application link to request assistance.
Is there promotion potential?
Yes, this position has a promotion potential to the GS-11 level, depending on performance and regulatory requirements.
Job from Veterans Benefits Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have borne the battle. The VR&E division focuses specifically on providing comprehensive rehabilitation and employment services to disabled Veterans. Our culture is defined by our 'I CARE' core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.