Military and Veterans Social Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a world increasingly aware of the unique challenges faced by military personnel and veterans, the role of social workers specializing in this field is more important than ever.

As societal attitudes evolve, so too does the demand for compassionate individuals who can support and guide our military community through the complexities of their experiences.

But what exactly does a military and veterans social worker do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker interested in understanding the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or just curious about the ins and outs of social work for military and veterans,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Military and Veterans Social Worker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Military and Veterans Social Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Military and Veterans Social Workers provide a wide range of services aimed at assisting military personnel, veterans, and their families.

They help with various issues, such as mental health, trauma, adjustment to civilian life, and other social problems.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Providing psychological and emotional support to active military personnel, veterans, and their families
• Assessing clients’ needs, situations, strengths, and support networks to determine their goals
• Developing plans to improve clients’ well-being
• Helping clients adjust to changes and challenges in their life, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and military-to-civilian transitions
• Researching and advocating for appropriate public assistance resources and services for clients
• Responding to crisis situations such as mental health emergencies
• Following up with clients to ensure that their situations have improved
• Collaborating with other professionals to evaluate clients’ medical or physical condition and to assess their need for other services
• Providing clients with information about resources, such as career counseling, healthcare, and legal resources
• Organizing support groups or counsel family members to assist them in understanding, dealing with, and supporting the client

 

Military and Veterans Social Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Military and Veterans Social Worker to assist our clients in adapting to their social environment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for providing counseling, assisting with benefits, and coordinating services for active military personnel, veterans, and their families.

The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by military personnel, veterans, and their families and be able to provide the necessary support and advocacy to help them navigate through various life transitions.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and counseling services to clients.
• Assist clients in dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
• Help clients access resources such as financial assistance, housing, medical care, and veterans’ benefits.
• Develop comprehensive care plans to meet the specific needs of each client.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, community organizations, and government agencies.
• Advocate for clients’ rights and needs.
• Provide crisis intervention as needed.
• Conduct regular follow-ups to monitor clients’ progress.
• Organize and facilitate support groups or educational sessions.
• Stay updated on the latest research and trends in military social work.

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited school of social work.
• Current and valid state license to practice as a social worker (LCSW).
• Experience working with military personnel, veterans, and their families is preferred.
• Knowledge of military culture and the challenges faced by military families.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong advocacy and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to respond effectively to crisis situations.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Military and Veterans Social Worker
• Work Environment: This role may require travel to various military installations, veteran service organizations, and clients’ homes. The ability to maintain a flexible schedule is essential.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Social Worker or Social Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $82,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Military and Veterans Social Worker Do?

Military and Veterans Social Workers are specialized professionals who focus on providing social services to active military personnel, veterans, and their families.

They work in a variety of settings such as military bases, Veterans Affairs medical centers, and community organizations.

Some also work in private practice, providing counseling services.

Their primary role is to support individuals who are dealing with a range of issues including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders.

They provide therapy, counseling, and create treatment plans to help their clients manage their conditions.

Military and Veterans Social Workers often work with clients who have experienced trauma, so they may also provide crisis intervention and trauma therapy.

They can also help clients navigate the resources and benefits available to them through the military and veterans affairs.

They advocate for their clients, ensuring they have access to the support and resources they need.

This might include coordinating with medical professionals, helping with housing or employment issues, or assisting with the transition from military to civilian life.

In addition, these social workers also provide support to family members who may be affected by their loved one’s military service.

This can include counseling for spouses and children, facilitating support groups, or providing resources and referrals for additional support.

They also work closely with other professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and occupational therapists to provide a holistic approach to care.

Their role often involves significant emotional labor as they provide empathetic, compassionate care for individuals who have served their country and are now navigating the challenges that can come with that service.

 

Military and Veterans Social Worker Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Military and Veterans Social Worker should possess specific skills and qualifications that complement the role, which include:

• Comprehensive understanding of military culture and the unique needs of veterans, including knowledge of PTSD, combat trauma, and the psychological effects of military service.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish trust and build relationships with veterans, military personnel, and their families. This includes having cultural sensitivity and empathy.
• Proficient in crisis intervention techniques, with the ability to assess and respond to emergencies effectively.
• Excellent communication skills to convey information effectively and listen actively to the needs and concerns of clients. Also, the ability to collaborate and communicate with a team of healthcare professionals.
• Problem-solving skills to help clients overcome challenges and barriers, developing practical solutions to their problems.
• Experience in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a range of mental health issues, as well as knowledge of therapeutic techniques and interventions.
• Ability to advocate for clients, helping them to access resources and services and navigate complex systems of care.
• Strong organizational skills and case management skills, including record keeping, report writing, and managing a large caseload.
• Knowledge of confidentiality and ethical guidelines pertaining to social work and the military context.

 

Military and Veterans Social Worker Experience Requirements

Entry-level Military and Veterans Social Workers typically need to have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field.

Internships or volunteer work in military or veteran services, mental health facilities, hospitals, or community centers can provide valuable experience that may be beneficial for this role.

After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree, many aspiring Military and Veterans Social Workers pursue a Master’s degree in social work, counseling, or psychology.

This advanced degree often includes specialized training in working with military personnel and veterans, and can provide a competitive advantage in the job market.

Candidates with 2-3 years of experience often work in roles such as case manager, therapist, or counselor where they gain practical, hands-on experience working with veterans or active military members and their families.

Social Workers with more than 5 years of experience may have specialized knowledge of military culture, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and the unique challenges faced by veterans.

These professionals may also have experience in program development and management, and could be suitable for leadership roles within the organization.

Additionally, all Military and Veterans Social Workers must meet any state licensing or certification requirements, which usually involve passing an exam and completing a certain number of supervised work hours.

Continued professional development and education are also important in this field, due to the evolving nature of mental health care practices.

 

Military and Veterans Social Worker Education and Training Requirements

Individuals aiming to become Military and Veterans Social Workers typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related human services field.

In order to work directly with clients, a master’s degree in social work (MSW) from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education is usually required.

Specialized courses in military and veterans affairs may be beneficial.

In addition to this, they need to complete an internship or supervised fieldwork, which provides hands-on experience and training.

All states require clinical social workers, including those who work with military personnel and veterans, to be licensed.

While licensing requirements vary by state, they typically include a master’s degree in social work, completion of a certain amount of clinical experience, and passing a clinical exam.

To demonstrate expertise in the field, some may choose to become certified by the National Association of Social Workers.

Continuous professional development and staying informed about changes and trends in military and veterans affairs are also important for success in this role.

In terms of personal skills, Military and Veterans Social Workers need to be empathetic, patient, and have strong problem-solving abilities.

They also need excellent communication skills, as they often act as a liaison between veterans and various service providers.

 

Military and Veterans Social Worker Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Military and Veterans Social Worker is $54,000 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can vary significantly depending on years of experience, specialized training, geographic location, and the specific governmental or non-governmental organization for which they work.

 

Military and Veterans Social Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Military and Veterans Social Worker need?

Military and Veterans Social Workers should possess strong listening and communication skills to understand and address their clients’ emotional and mental health issues.

They also require a deep understanding of the military culture and the unique challenges veterans face.

Problem-solving skills, empathy, patience, and the ability to work under stressful situations are also vital for this role.

 

Do Military and Veterans Social Workers need a degree?

Yes, Military and Veterans Social Workers generally need to hold a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.

Many roles, especially those in clinical settings, require a Master’s degree in Social Work.

Additionally, licensure or certification may be required, depending on the state.

 

What should you look for in a Military and Veterans Social Worker resume?

A Military and Veterans Social Worker resume should demonstrate formal education in social work or a related field and relevant experience working with military personnel or veterans.

Look for experience in managing cases, providing counseling, and connecting clients with appropriate resources.

Certifications or licensure in social work, knowledge of military culture, and familiarity with issues like PTSD, substance abuse, and family dynamics are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Military and Veterans Social Worker?

A good Military and Veterans Social Worker is compassionate, empathetic, and patient, with a strong desire to help others.

They should have excellent listening and communication skills to understand and address their clients’ needs effectively.

Cultural sensitivity and understanding of military life and challenges that veterans face are crucial.

They should also be resilient and able to cope with stressful and emotionally charged situations.

 

Is it difficult to hire Military and Veterans Social Workers?

Hiring Military and Veterans Social Workers can be a challenge due to the specialized nature of the work and the specific skill set required.

However, if you offer a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development, you can attract qualified candidates.

Remember, it’s essential to ensure candidates have the appropriate education, licensure, and experience working with military and veteran populations.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the ins and outs of being a military and veterans social worker.

Surprised?

It’s not just about providing counseling services.

It’s about shaping the future of our brave servicemen and women, one support session at a time.

With our indispensable military and veterans social worker job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or polishing your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every support session is a part of the bigger mission.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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