Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Licensed Practical Nurse at VA Puget Sound

Are you a dedicated nurse looking to advance your career while making a tangible difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed for our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System is currently seeking a passionate Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to join their team in Tacoma, Washington. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing world-class, compassionate care to Veterans in a Geriatric and Extended Care setting.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will provide comprehensive care to Veterans in various states of health. Your daily contributions will include:

Administering medications through multiple delivery methods (oral, IV, etc.).
Monitoring patient vitals and reporting changes to registered nurses or physicians.
Assisting in complex diagnostic procedures and equipment-assisted care.
Supporting patients and families through education and counseling.
Contributing to restorative nursing care plans.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
Licensure: A current, active, and unrestricted LPN/LVN license.
Education: Graduate of an approved school of practical/vocational nursing.
Proficiency: Fluency in written and spoken English.
Compliance: Ability to pass pre-employment physicals, background checks, and drug testing.

Salary Overview & Grade Levels

Compensation at the VA is competitive and reflects your experience and clinical expertise. The position is open to grades GS-3 through GS-6, with a salary range of $54,931 to $85,535 annually.

Grade Level	Key Expectations
GS-3	Entry-level, basic clinical duties.
GS-4	Requires 6 months experience; increased autonomy.
GS-5	Fully proficient; manages medication and patient education.
GS-6	High proficiency; handles complex clinical tasks and emergency responses.

Benefits

The VA offers one of the most robust benefits packages in the federal sector:

Education: Access to the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Leave: Substantial annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k) retirement savings.
Work-Life: Paid parental leave and childcare subsidies.

Application Tips

Use the Template: Download the specific clinical resume template provided on the VA website to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
Be Detailed: Clearly outline your clinical experience, including volunteer work or specialized training.
Stay Timely: Submit all documents by the deadline—September 28, 2026.

Join a team that values your skill and honors the service of our Veterans. Apply today and build a stable, meaningful, and well-compensated career with the VA.

Why This Licensed Practical Nurse Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country while advancing your nursing career at one of the nation's most complex and rewarding healthcare systems.

Licensed Practical Nurse Job Overview

Join the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System in Tacoma, Washington, as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) within the Geriatric & Extended Care Section. This role offers an incredible opportunity to provide compassionate, high-quality care to Veterans facing acute and chronic health challenges. You will work in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment that values professional growth and patient-centered excellence, all while enjoying the stability and benefits of a federal career.

Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse

U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be considered only if qualified citizens are unavailable).
Full, active, current, and unrestricted LPN/LVN licensure in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Graduation from an approved school of practical or vocational nursing.
Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
Ability to pass a background/security investigation.
Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination mandates.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Practical Nurse

Prior professional experience in long-term care nursing environments.
Demonstrated ability to function effectively in fast-paced or complex clinical settings.
Experience in geriatric patient populations.
Strong communication skills for patient and family education.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Up to $200,000 in Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) student loan reimbursement.
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 federal holidays.
✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
✓Childcare subsidy for eligible full-time employees.
✓Federal retirement plan including pension and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with 5% matching.
✓Opportunities for salary increases and professional advancement.

💡 How to Apply Licensed Practical Nurse Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Licensed Practical Nurse Job

Create or log into your account on USAJobs.gov.
Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
Upload your resume, licensure documentation, and any relevant transcripts or certificates.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 28, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and thorough when describing your clinical experience; do not rely on assumptions.
Ensure your resume is formatted correctly according to the specific guidance provided for this vacancy.
Double-check that all required supporting documents (e.g., license, transcript) are attached before submitting.
Monitor your email for status updates throughout the hiring process.
Reach out to the listed agency contact early if you require assistance with the application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a student loan repayment program available for this role?

Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualified candidates.

What is the work schedule for this position?

The schedule is Monday through Friday, from 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM, with an alternating weekend rotation.

Are there opportunities for remote work?

No, this is an onsite clinical position and is not eligible for telework or virtual arrangements.

Is EDRP available?

*A: Yes, this position is eligible for student loan reimbursement up to $200,000.*

Can I work from home?

*A: No, this position requires onsite presence in Tacoma.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is a nationally recognized, complex Level 1a healthcare organization. As a hub for interdisciplinary teaching and specialty care, it operates across multiple locations, including community-based outpatient clinics. Whether managing rehabilitation, palliative care, or dementia support, the team at Puget Sound is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served.