Position Summary
Michigan State University actively promotes a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry.
The MSU School of Social Work, within the College of Social Science, is dedicated to educating students for ethical, competent, responsive, and innovative social practice, and to conducting and disseminating high quality research that improves the well-being of the most vulnerable in society. Our teaching, research, and outreach synergistically promote social justice, positive change, and solutions to the problems facing broad cross section individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. More than 600 students are enrolled in our CSWE- accredited BASW and MSW programs, and our PhD program.
The Combat Veteran Certificate equips MSW students with specialized knowledge in veteran services, trauma recovery, and systems navigation. The School seeks field liaisons with experience in veteran-related clinical practice, systems-level work, or military culture to support field placements aligned with this certificate. The role includes integrating specialized veteran-centric competencies and understanding of military culture.
Field Liaisons serve as the bridge between agency, student, and school, helping to facilitate integrative learning that centers veteran experience, complex trauma, and professional development in veteran services. This is a project paid position.
Primary functions of this role include:
- Conduct field visits to veteran-serving agencies
- Maintain ongoing contact with students to assess learning needs and address challenges
- Serve as liaison between the Field Education Office, students, and field instructor
- Organize and facilitate trauma-informed, veteran-centered integrative field seminars
-Keep the field coordinator informed of students’ development and concerns
- Collaborate with field instructors and students to address placement needs
- Review and approve learning agreements reflecting Combat Veteran Certificate competencies
- Complete paperwork and maintain timely communication with field team
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Masters -Social Work
Minimum Requirements
- LMSW with a minimum of 3 years post-MSW clinical social work experience by date of employment
- Experience in mental health, behavioral health, or integrative care settings
- Experience facilitating negotiation, conflict resolution or mediation skills
- Experience facilitating small groups
- Excellent professional verbal and written communication skills
- Demonstrated experience working with combat veterans, service members, or military families
- Knowledge of PTSD, TBI, moral injury, and military cultural competency
Desired Qualifications
- Military veteran status or experience in VA or veteran-serving agencies
- Trauma-specific certifications (e.g., EMDR, CPT, TF-CBT)
- Previous experience as a field instructor, liaison, or clinical supervisor
- Experience with policy advocacy or systems coordination for veterans
Required Application Materials
Interested candidates should send:
- Cover Letter
- Current resume or CV
Special Instructions
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until positions are filled. Positions will be filled on an as-needed basis.
Work Hours
This is an on-call project pay position.
Review of Applications Begins On
11/04/2025
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
Website
www.socialwork.msu.edu
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
