Advance Your Nursing Career with the Alaska VA
Are you a compassionate Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) seeking a rewarding career in a unique clinical environment? The Alaska VA Healthcare System (AVAHS) is looking for talented, dedicated nurses to join our team in Anchorage. This role offers the chance to provide essential care to Veterans while living in a city that combines modern urban convenience with immediate access to Alaska's world-famous wilderness.
About the Alaska VA Healthcare System
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling the promise to care for those who have served our nation. The Alaska VA Healthcare System serves Veterans across the state, operating out of our main facility in Anchorage and through several community-based outpatient clinics. Joining the VA means becoming part of a mission-driven organization that values clinical excellence, teamwork, and whole-health patient care.
Life in Anchorage
Anchorage is more than just a place to work. It offers a high quality of life with no state income or sales tax. Residents enjoy a thriving cultural scene, diverse dining, and easy access to outdoor pursuits like hiking, skiing, fishing, and photography. It is the perfect location for healthcare professionals who value both their career and their quality of life.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPN at the Alaska VA, you will play a critical role in our patient-aligned care teams. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Patient Flow: Managing clinic flow to ensure efficient, timely delivery of care.
- Clinical Duties: Checking vitals, administering medications, and processing clinical reminders.
- Collaboration: Working closely with RNs and providers to participate in team huddles and patient care planning.
- Communication: Acting as a bridge between patients, their families, and the medical team to ensure continuity of care.
- Documentation: Accurately updating electronic medical records to reflect patient encounters and treatment progress.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
- U.S. Citizenship: You must be a citizen of the United States.
- Licensure: An active, full, and unrestricted LPN/LVN license in a U.S. state or territory.
- Education: Graduation from an approved school of practical or vocational nursing.
- Language: Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Qualification Standards Comparison
| Grade Level | Experience/Education Requirements |
|---|---|
| GS-03 | Basic requirements met; entry level |
| GS-04 | 6 months of experience OR graduation from 24-month approved school |
| GS-05 | 1 year of experience at GS-04 level; proven clinical competency |
| GS-06 | 1 year of experience at GS-05 level; technical proficiency and precepting ability |
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for this role is competitive, ranging from $39,406 to $89,883 annually, depending on experience and grade level. Beyond the salary, the VA offers a comprehensive benefits package:
- Paid Time Off: Generous leave accrual including annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Participation in the federal pension system and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching.
- Insurance: Access to low-cost federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
- Flexibility: Opportunities for compressed work schedules and paid parental leave.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires attention to detail. Ensure your resume is comprehensive, highlighting specific dates of employment, hours worked, and detailed descriptions of your clinical duties. Visit the official USAJOBS portal to create an account, upload the required clinical resume document, and complete the occupational questionnaire.
If you are ready to elevate your career and give back to those who have served our country, the Alaska VA Healthcare System is the place for you. We value clinical expertise, dedication to patient care, and a collaborative spirit. Apply today to start your journey with the VA in Anchorage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the hiring process continuous?
Yes, this is an open-continuous announcement, meaning the agency will review applications at various cut-off dates until the position is filled or the announcement expires.
Are there opportunities for relocation support?
Unfortunately, this specific vacancy does not include relocation assistance (PCS).
What documentation is required?
At a minimum, you must provide a valid nursing license, a detailed resume (using the required VA template), and any relevant educational transcripts.
Why This Licensed Practical Nurse Job Matters
Advance your nursing career in the heart of Alaska while providing world-class care to those who have served our nation.
Licensed Practical Nurse Job Overview
The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to join our Primary Care team in Anchorage. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a dynamic, patient-centered environment where your contributions directly support the health and well-being of our nation's Veterans. You will operate within a collaborative team, managing patient flow, administering care, and ensuring the highest standards of service in a beautiful, vibrant city known for its unparalleled outdoor lifestyle.
Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Active, full, current, and unrestricted LPN/LVN licensure in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Graduate of an approved school of practical or vocational nursing.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Must complete a mandatory background and security investigation.
- Commitment to the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Practical Nurse
- Clinical experience in Primary Care, Emergency Room, Urgent Care, or Ambulatory Care settings.
- Demonstrated ability to function effectively in an interdisciplinary team-based care model.
- Proven experience with electronic medical record documentation.
- Strong interpersonal skills for patient education and family communication.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Paid parental leave for up to 12 weeks after one year of service.
- ✓Child care subsidy programs for qualifying families.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Licensed Practical Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Practical Nurse Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific questionnaire link provided in the vacancy announcement.
- Prepare your resume according to the detailed requirements (include hours per week, exact dates, and duties).
- Download and attach the required Clinical Resume document template.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents including your license and transcripts.
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be descriptive in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your specific daily duties.
- Clearly state your full-time or part-time status for every job listed.
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the core competencies mentioned in the job duties.
- Double-check that your license is currently valid and active.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the closing date approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for relocation assistance?
No, relocation assistance (Permanent Change of Station) is not authorized for this position.
What is the work schedule?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, with potential for compressed work tours after orientation.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this is an open-continuous announcement for the public, so all qualified U.S. citizens are encouraged to apply.