Launch Your Nursing Career with the Defense Health Agency at Fort Drum
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with service to our nation? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring a Practical Nurse to join the team at the Occupational Health Clinic at Fort Drum, New York. This role is essential to maintaining the health and operational readiness of the Joint Force.
Job Responsibilities
As a Practical Nurse, you will serve as a primary contributor to the Occupational Health Program (OHP). Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Clinical Care: Providing independent nursing support, including medical surveillance and health screening.
- Patient Interaction: Conducting comprehensive assessments of workers’ medical histories, hazardous exposures, and mental/emotional status.
- Operational Support: Performing site visits to determine the necessity of surveillance testing.
- Administration: Maintaining accurate medical records and assisting with clinical clerical duties.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Licensure: A current, valid license to practice as a practical/vocational nurse.
- Experience: One year of professional nursing experience in a supervised medical facility.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Documentation: You must submit a valid license with your application.
Requirements Comparison
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen Only |
| Experience | 1 Year Minimum |
| License | Valid State/Territory LPN/LVN |
| Drug Test | Required |
Salary Overview
The annual salary for this position ranges from $40,736 to $52,957. Please note that salary negotiations may be available for individuals new to the federal government.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Accrued annual and sick leave.
- Potential recruitment or relocation incentives.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less.
- Be Specific: Include dates, hours per week, and clear duties for each role.
- Stay Organized: Verify your documents clear the system before the deadline.
Serving as a Practical Nurse at Fort Drum is more than a job—it is a commitment to the health of those who defend our nation. With excellent benefits and a supportive environment, this is an ideal role for an ambitious nurse.
Why This Practical Nurse Job Matters
Join the Defense Health Agency as a Practical Nurse and make a vital impact on the health and readiness of our nation's heroes at Fort Drum.
Practical Nurse Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a dedicated Practical Nurse to support the Occupational Health Clinic at Fort Drum, New York. As part of an integrated healthcare system, you will play a crucial role in providing comprehensive medical surveillance, patient education, and clinical care to service members and their families. This is an open continuous, direct-hire announcement, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-critical team that supports the Joint Force worldwide.
Requirements for Practical Nurse
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess a current, valid license to practice as a practical or vocational nurse in a State, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Must have at least one year of specialized nursing experience in a clinical, hospital, or nursing home setting.
- Must be able to pass a background check and drug screening.
- Must be able to adhere to a one-year probationary period.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must register for Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse
- Proficiency in clinical documentation and electronic medical record management.
- Strong background in occupational health nursing, including hazardous exposure monitoring.
- Experience in conducting patient health screenings and providing wellness education.
- Knowledge of sterile techniques and medical surveillance procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
- ✓Student loan repayment opportunities may be available.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the Department of Defense.
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, detailing relevant experience with dates and hours worked.
- Upload a copy of your valid practical nursing license.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing portal.
- Submit your application and ensure all required documentation is attached before the deadline.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is no more than two pages; longer resumes will be automatically disqualified.
- Include specific details like employer names, dates of employment (month/year), and average hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Use clear, plain language and avoid technical acronyms that might confuse human resources reviewers.
- Verify that your license is current and clearly visible in your submitted documentation.
- Double-check your responses to the online questionnaire to ensure they align with your resume experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
This is an open continuous, direct-hire announcement for a position with the Defense Health Agency, potentially subject to a one-year probationary period.
Can I substitute my education for the required work experience?
No, for this specific position, you must meet the qualification requirements through relevant professional experience alone.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Your application will be removed from consideration. It is strictly required that your resume be two pages or less.
Can I apply if I don't have a license yet?
You must have a license or have applied for one to be considered. Proof is required at the time of application.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system that delivers world-class medical services across the Department of Defense. We support 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. Our mission is to ensure quality medical, dental, and pharmacy programs are delivered worldwide, ensuring our service members are ready for duty anytime, anywhere.