Empowering Veterans: Your Role as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist in Charleston

Are you looking for a career that combines your passion for counseling with the rewarding mission of supporting those who have served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs is hiring a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist to join the team at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in Charleston, South Carolina. This role is essential for helping Veterans achieve independence through stable employment and housing.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will serve as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist, specifically supporting the HUD-VASH program. Key duties include:

Conducting comprehensive vocational assessments.
Developing and monitoring individualized employment plans.
Providing job coaching and placement services.
Bridging the gap between Veterans and community employers.
Coordinating with care teams to address non-vocational barriers to success, such as housing and mental health.

Requirements & Qualifications

To be eligible, you must meet specific federal requirements. You may qualify through education, experience, or a combination of both.

Qualification Type	Requirement Details
Education	Master’s degree or 2 years of graduate-level study in counseling or a related field.
Experience	1 year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level equivalent.
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Probation	1-year probationary or 2-year trial period required.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $61,722 to $80,243. In addition to salary, you will enjoy the stability of federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage and retirement contributions.

Application Tips

Mind the Page Limit: Federal agencies now enforce a strict two-page limit for resumes.
Be Specific: Do not assume hiring managers know your background. Clearly outline your duties, job titles, and hours worked.
Document Everything: Upload your transcripts, SF-50, and any relevant certifications in PDF format to ensure clear, readable documentation.

Serving as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist is more than just a job; it is a way to give back to the men and women who have served our nation. If you are ready to make a significant difference in the lives of Charleston’s Veterans, apply before the November 12, 2026, deadline.

Why This Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job Matters

Transform lives and help Veterans thrive: Join the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist and turn career goals into reality.

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist to join the Mental Health Service team in Charleston, South Carolina. In this pivotal role, you will provide essential vocational support to Veterans participating in the HUD-VASH program, helping them overcome barriers, secure sustainable employment, and achieve long-term housing stability.

Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must complete an online application and assessment.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must complete a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
Must be able to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccinations or obtain an exemption.
Must provide a valid resume, transcripts, and proof of Time-in-Grade (if applicable).

Preferred Qualifications for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist

Master’s degree or two full years of graduate study in vocational rehabilitation, counseling, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience in vocational guidance, counseling for individuals with disabilities, or personnel placement.
Strong ability to develop individualized employment plans.
Knowledge of community resources and training programs for disadvantaged populations.
Proficiency in documenting service outcomes and tracking program performance.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Paid annual and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development.
✓Supportive work environment within the VA Health Care System.
✓Potential for ad-hoc telework flexibility.

💡 How to Apply Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your resume (maximum 2 pages) and gather required documents like your SF-50 and transcripts.
Submit your application and questionnaire through the online portal.
Complete the required online assessment via the provided link.
Track your application status through your USAJOBS profile.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume to two pages or less; longer resumes may disqualify you.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your format meets federal standards.
Clearly define your experience with job titles, duties, and hours worked per week.
Avoid making assumptions; explicitly state how your background matches the qualifications listed.
Set aside at least 3 hours for the online assessment, but you may save your progress if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position may be authorized for ad-hoc telework, which will be discussed during the interview process.

Do I need to submit an SF-50?

Yes, current or former federal employees must submit an SF-50 to verify their time-in-grade and eligibility.

What is the educational requirement?

You may qualify through a Master's degree (or 2 years of graduate study) in a relevant field, or through a combination of specialized experience and education.

Is this position remote?

*A: No, this is not a virtual position, though ad-hoc telework may be discussed during the interview.*

What is the HUD-VASH program?

*A: It is a collaborative program between HUD and the VA that provides supportive housing and employment services to homeless Veterans.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As an employee here, you are part of a team providing compassionate, whole-person care to the men and women who have sacrificed for our nation.