Advance Your Career: Certified Nurse Anesthetist Opportunities at the VA
Are you a skilled Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking dedicated professionals to join the South Texas Veterans Health Care System. This position offers a rare blend of professional autonomy, clinical challenge, and the opportunity to serve those who have served our country.
About the South Texas Veterans Health Care System
The South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) is a world-class facility providing primary, secondary, and tertiary care to over 114,000 Veterans. Comprising the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital and the Kerrville VA Hospital, the system is a hub for innovation and specialized care. As an affiliate of UT Health San Antonio, our staff works at the forefront of clinical research and evidence-based practice.
Job Responsibilities
As an Advanced Practice Nurse (CNA) at the VA, you will play a critical role in the perioperative experience. Your responsibilities include:
- Conducting pre-anesthetic evaluations and preparing comprehensive care plans.
- Administering a wide range of anesthesia, including general, regional, and monitored sedation.
- Ensuring patient safety through vigilant monitoring and emergency response.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including surgeons, residents, and nursing staff.
- Mentoring students and health care trainees as part of our academic mission.
Compensation and Comparison Table
Working for the federal government provides a financial structure that recognizes your expertise and advanced training.
| Feature | Federal VA Benefits | Private Sector (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement | Pension + 401(k) Match | Often 401(k) only |
| PTO | 50 days (Leave + Holidays) | Varies (often less) |
| Student Loans | EDRP (Up to $200k) | Rare |
| Stability | High | Market Dependent |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be eligible for this position, applicants must hold a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nurse anesthesia from a COA-accredited program and maintain an active, unrestricted license. We prioritize candidates with:
- Experience: Minimum 2 years in OR and non-OR settings.
- Versatility: Ability to handle complex neuro and vascular cases.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in ultrasound-guided regional techniques.
Application Tips for Success
Navigating the federal hiring process requires attention to detail. Always use the provided VA-specific resume template for the primary 'Resume' field, but feel free to upload your detailed CV in the 'Other' documents section. Ensure all certifications are current and clearly highlighted in your application questionnaire.
If you are ready to combine a high-level clinical practice with the stability and mission-driven environment of the VA, we invite you to apply. Your expertise can change the lives of the Veterans who rely on the South Texas Health Care System. Apply today and take the next step in your professional journey.
Why This Advanced Practice Nurse-Certified Nurse Anesthetist-Recruitment/Relocation Incentive-Edrp Authorized Job Matters
Advance your anesthesia career with the Department of Veterans Affairs in San Antonio, featuring EDRP eligibility and a competitive, performance-based salary structure.
Advanced Practice Nurse-Certified Nurse Anesthetist-Recruitment/Relocation Incentive-Edrp Authorized Job Overview
The South Texas Veterans Health Care System is seeking a highly skilled Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) to join its dynamic clinical team. Serving one of the nation's largest Veteran populations, this position involves delivering comprehensive anesthetic care across diverse surgical settings. This role is perfect for professionals committed to excellence, safety, and the compassionate care of our nation's heroes. With potential for recruitment or relocation incentives and student loan reimbursement, this opportunity offers both professional growth and significant financial support.
Requirements for Advanced Practice Nurse-Certified Nurse Anesthetist-Recruitment/Relocation Incentive-Edrp Authorized
- U.S. Citizenship (unless no qualified citizens are available).
- Master’s or doctoral degree in nurse anesthesia from a COA-accredited program.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted license as a CNA/APN in a U.S. state, territory, or DC.
- Current certification from the NBCRNA or equivalent.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and background security investigation.
- Mandatory participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Advanced Practice Nurse-Certified Nurse Anesthetist-Recruitment/Relocation Incentive-Edrp Authorized
- At least 2 years of clinical experience in both OR and non-OR anesthetic settings.
- Experience working within a team-based anesthesia model.
- Proven capability to manage complex cases, including vascular and neurosurgical procedures.
- Advanced proficiency in regional ultrasound-guided anesthesia techniques.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Competitive federal salary with performance-based increases.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with 5% employer matching.
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 annual leave, 13 sick leave, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Relocation and recruitment incentives for highly qualified individuals.
💡 How to Apply Advanced Practice Nurse-Certified Nurse Anesthetist-Recruitment/Relocation Incentive-Edrp Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Advanced Practice Nurse-Certified Nurse Anesthetist-Recruitment/Relocation Incentive-Edrp Authorized Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document provided by the VA.
- Prepare your full CV or resume for the 'Other' document upload field.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of July 23, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your standard Clinical Resume Document is uploaded exactly as required in the designated field.
- Double-check that all state licenses and certifications are current and documented.
- Apply early; the system accepts applications on a rolling basis for specific vacancies.
- Veterans should ensure their DD-214 is included to receive proper preference points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for eligible candidates.
What is the work schedule for this role?
This is a full-time, Monday-Friday position, typically operating from 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
U.S. citizens are preferred. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.