Embark on a Fulfilling Career as a Nursing Assistant at VA Northport NY Medical Center

Are you passionate about providing compassionate care and making a tangible impact on the lives of those who have served our nation? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is offering an exceptional opportunity for dedicated Nursing Assistants (NAs) to join the esteemed Northport NY VA Medical Center. This is more than just a job; it's a chance to become part of a mission-driven organization committed to honoring America's Veterans. With a continuous recruitment process, competitive compensation, robust benefits, and ample opportunities for professional growth, this role invites you to build a rewarding career while serving a noble cause. Discover how you can contribute your skills and dedication to the health and well-being of our Veterans.

About the Department of Veterans Affairs and VHA

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) stands as a cornerstone of support for the nation's Veterans, fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, renowned for its commitment to providing comprehensive, high-quality medical care to millions of Veterans annually. VHA's core values of Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE) guide every aspect of its operations, fostering a culture of patient-centered care and continuous improvement.

The VHA operates a vast network of hospitals, medical centers, and outpatient clinics nationwide, offering a wide spectrum of healthcare services. By joining the VHA, you become part of a dynamic team that is at the forefront of medical innovation and patient care, dedicated to improving the lives of Veterans and their families. The Northport NY VA Medical Center, specifically, is a vital component of this network, delivering essential services and specialized care to Veterans in the region.

The Role of a Nursing Assistant (NA)

As a Nursing Assistant at the Northport NY VA Medical Center, you will be an integral member of the healthcare team, providing essential direct patient care under the supervision of licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Your responsibilities will span across various clinical settings, including inpatient wards, outpatient clinics, acute care units, community living centers, and potentially home care environments.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Direct Patient Care: Assisting patients with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, feeding, mobility, and comfort measures.
• Monitoring Patient Condition: Observing patients for changes in their physical or emotional status, vital signs, and reporting any deviations or concerns to the supervising nurse promptly.
• Assisting with Treatments: Supporting nurses and physicians in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, which may include specimen collection, bladder scans, or managing basic medical equipment.
• Patient Communication: Interacting with patients and their families, providing reassurance, and relaying important information between the patient and the healthcare team.
• Maintaining a Safe Environment: Ensuring patient rooms and common areas are clean, safe, and well-equipped.
• Documentation: Accurately documenting care provided and observations made in patient records.

Progression Through Grades:

• GS-03: At this entry level, you will perform basic nursing care under supervision, focusing on standardized procedures and familiarizing yourself with specialized equipment.
• GS-04: You will provide more complex nursing care as part of the team, assisting higher-graded NAs and licensed staff. Duties may be performed in diverse settings, requiring adaptability and a growing skill set.
• GS-05: This level involves greater responsibility, where you'll assist licensed staff in caring for Veterans across a broad spectrum of needs, from preventive to hospice care. You may also take on a mentorship role, guiding newer NAs while ensuring your own training remains current.

Requirements for Application

To be considered for this exciting opportunity, candidates must meet specific eligibility and qualification criteria. These requirements ensure that all potential employees are well-suited for the demanding yet rewarding environment of VHA healthcare.

Basic Eligibility Requirements:

• Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Non-citizens may be considered only if qualified U.S. citizens cannot be recruited.
• English Proficiency: A strong command of written and spoken English is essential for effective communication and accurate documentation.
• Background Investigation: All selected candidates will undergo a background and security investigation.
• Physical Examination: A pre-employment physical examination is required to ensure the ability to perform the essential functions of the role.
• Drug Screening: For specific positions, a urinalysis drug screening is mandatory prior to appointment. Refusal to participate will disqualify an applicant.
• Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.
• Identification: Valid identification, compliant with REAL ID standards by May 7, 2025, is required for pre-employment processes.

Educational and Experience Pathways:

Candidates can qualify through one of the following pathways:

1. General Experience: Six (6) months of general experience that demonstrates the ability to acquire the knowledge and skills needed for a Nursing Assistant role.
2. Education: One (1) year of education beyond high school from an accredited institution, with coursework related to the Nursing Assistant occupation.
3. Training: Completion of an intensive, specialized, occupation-related training program for Nursing Assistants that lasted less than one year.

Grade-Specific Requirements:

• GS-03: Requires meeting the basic requirements outlined above.
• GS-04: Requires one (1) year of specialized experience as a Nursing Assistant or in a related medical field (e.g., LPN, health technician) performing technical and nursing skills, OR two (2) years of education above high school with relevant coursework. Must also demonstrate specific Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) related to patient care, observation, equipment use, and communication.
• GS-05: Requires one (1) year of progressively responsible experience equivalent to the GS-04 level, OR a Bachelor's degree with 24 semester hours of health-care-related coursework. Must also demonstrate advanced KSAs, including assisting in comprehensive patient care, effective communication, mentorship, and handling emergent situations.

Note: Applicants pending educational or certification requirements may be referred, but hiring is contingent upon meeting all requirements. For detailed qualification standards, please visit VA's Qualification Standards.

Salary and Compensation Overview

Join the VA means entering a robust compensation system designed to reward your skills and dedication. The Nursing Assistant position at the Northport NY VA Medical Center offers a competitive annual salary range of $43,432 to $70,912, depending on the grade level (GS-03 to GS-05) and your qualifications.

Key Compensation Features:

• Regular Salary Increases: Federal employment includes a structured system for salary progression.
• Above Minimum Rate: In certain cases, a higher step rate within the grade may be determined based on exceptional qualifications or specific agency needs.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Beyond a competitive salary, the VA provides an outstanding benefits package designed to support your well-being and financial security throughout your career and into retirement.

Valuable Benefits Include:

• Generous Paid Time Off: Earn 37 to 50 days of paid time off annually, including 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
• Leave Accrual Credit: Prior federal employment or military service may grant you credit for earning annual leave at a higher rate.
• Paid Parental Leave: Access up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave for the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child after 12 months of employment.
• Child Care Subsidy: Eligible full-time employees with a qualifying family income may receive a childcare subsidy.
• Retirement Plan: Benefit from a traditional federal pension with 5-year vesting and a federal 401(k) plan featuring up to a 5% matching contribution from the VA.
• Health and Insurance: Comprehensive federal insurance programs, including health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care, many of which can be continued into retirement.

For a detailed overview of the VA's total rewards, visit the VA Careers Benefits Page.

Navigating the Application Process

Applying for a federal position can seem complex, but by following these steps and tips, you can submit a strong and complete application.

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Visit USAJOBS.gov: Access the job announcement and click 'Apply Online'.
2. Create/Log In: Set up a USAJOBS account or log into your existing one.
3. Resume Selection: Choose your saved USAJOBS resume or upload a new one. Remember to tailor it carefully.
4. Occupational Questionnaire: Answer all questions honestly and thoroughly, as your responses are used for qualification assessment.
5. Document Upload: Upload all required documents as specified in the 'Required Documents' section. This may include transcripts, SF-50s, licenses, etc. Use the provided clinical resume template if instructed.
6. Submit Application: Ensure your entire package is submitted by the closing date: July 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Essential Application Tips:

• Read Carefully: Pay close attention to all instructions, especially in the 'Qualifications', 'Required Documents', and 'How to Apply' sections.
• Be Specific: In your resume, provide detailed descriptions of your duties, accomplishments, and the skills you utilized. Quantify achievements whenever possible.
• Update Regularly: Since this is an open continuous announcement, your application is valid for 90 days. Remember to log in and update it periodically to maintain your active status.
• Preview Questionnaire: Use the provided link to preview the occupational questionnaire to prepare your answers.
• Check for Clarity: Ensure your uploaded documents are legible and directly support your application.

What to Expect After Applying

Upon successful submission of your application package, you will receive an email confirmation. The hiring team will then review all applications to verify eligibility and qualifications against the announcement requirements. Candidates who meet the qualifications will be referred to the hiring manager, and you will be notified of your status via email. Referred applicants may be contacted directly for an interview. A final notification will be sent once a selection decision is made.

Important Note on Influenza Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). This includes receiving an annual vaccination or obtaining a valid medical or religious exemption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: What is the work schedule for this position? A: This position operates on 12-hour shifts, either days (7:30 AM - 8:00 PM) or nights (7:30 PM - 8:00 AM), seven days a week.

• Q: How can I qualify for this role? A: Qualification can be based on six months of general experience, one year of post-high school education in a related field, or completion of a specialized training program. Higher grades require more specialized experience or education and demonstrated KSAs.

• Q: Is this position eligible for remote work? A: No, this is not a remote or virtual position. It requires on-site work at the Northport NY VA Medical Center.

• Q: How long is the application valid? A: Applications remain active for 90 days. You must update your application every 90 days to remain eligible.

• Q: What are the benefits of working for the VA? A: VA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, retirement plans, health insurance, and potential for childcare subsidies.

This Nursing Assistant position at the VA Northport NY Medical Center offers a unique opportunity to serve Veterans, gain valuable experience, and build a stable and rewarding career within a highly respected healthcare system. If you possess a compassionate spirit, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to patient well-being, we encourage you to apply. Join the VHA team and contribute to the legacy of care and support for our nation's heroes. Your service to them is a service to our country.