Advance Your Surgical Career: Operating Room Nurse Opportunities in Portland
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively recruiting skilled Operating Room (OR) Nurses to join our clinical team in Portland, Oregon. This is an exceptional opportunity for professionals dedicated to high-acuity surgical care and those who wish to support the brave men and women who served our nation. With a competitive compensation package and specialized loan repayment options, the VA offers a unique balance of professional challenge and personal stability.
Job Responsibilities
As an OR Nurse in Portland, you will oversee the nursing care of patients undergoing invasive procedures. Your core duties will include:
- Clinical Excellence: Planning and coordinating care during surgical procedures while maintaining a sterile environment.
- Team Collaboration: Functioning proficiently in both circulator and scrub roles, ensuring clear communication among the surgical team.
- Patient Safety: Managing surgical equipment, monitoring patient vital signs, and ensuring strict adherence to infection control protocols.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate, timely, and complete electronic health records.
- On-Call Availability: Supporting off-tour emergency procedures to ensure 24/7 care for our Veterans.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply under specific conditions).
- Education: A graduate of an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing program.
- Licensure: An active, unrestricted RN license from any U.S. state or territory.
- Screening: Successful passage of a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and background investigation.
Comparison Table: Nurse Grade Qualifications
| Nurse Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma or BSN | 1 year (for ADN) or 0 (for BSN) |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN/Diploma, BSN, or MSN | 1-2 years relevant experience |
| Nurse II | BSN/MSN/Doctorate | 1-2 years of specialized practice |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive annual salary range of $96,237 to $161,801, depending on education and relevant experience.
Benefits
- Education Debt: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Paid Time Off: 50 days of total leave annually.
- Retirement: Federal pension plus 401K with 5% agency match.
- Insurance: Extensive federal health, dental, and vision coverage.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Clearly map your nursing experience to the five core VA nursing dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Use the Template: Download and utilize the VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
Serving as an OR Nurse in the VA system is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in surgical care. We invite you to apply today and bring your clinical expertise to the Portland VA Health Care System.
Why This Nurse (Operating Room) Job Matters
Transform your nursing career in beautiful Portland, Oregon—support our nation's heroes while advancing your surgical expertise at the Veterans Health Administration.
Nurse (Operating Room) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking dedicated Registered Nurses for the Operating Room in Portland, Oregon. This role offers the chance to provide high-quality surgical care to Veterans, working within a collaborative interdisciplinary team. You will be responsible for clinical outcomes in a fast-paced environment that values integrity, commitment, advocacy, respect, and excellence. This position features a competitive salary and eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Requirements for Nurse (Operating Room)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN licensure in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia
- Graduate of a school of professional nursing approved by ACEN or CCNE
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation and drug screening
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Nurse (Operating Room)
- 2 years of prior Operating Room experience
- Previous experience working within the Veterans Health Administration system
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with annual increases
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 annual leave, 13 sick leave, 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan
- ✓Federal 401K with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance options
💡 How to Apply Nurse (Operating Room) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nurse (Operating Room) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (DD-214, transcripts, license)
- Download and complete the VA Clinical Resume template
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided link
- Submit your application and all required documents before the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and clear when describing your experience; do not assume the reviewer knows your specific clinical tasks.
- Ensure your resume is formatted correctly and includes all dates of employment.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Verify that your nursing license is current and uploaded to your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this position?
Yes, this role is eligible for the EDRP, which may provide student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on eligibility.
What is the expected schedule for this role?
The schedule is primarily Monday through Friday, 0600-1800, with required on-call availability for off-tour emergency procedures.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, relocation benefits are not available for this specific vacancy.*
Can I apply if I am not yet a licensed RN?
*A: Certain candidates may be appointed as Graduate Nurse Technicians while pursuing licensure under specific conditions.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We operate under the I CARE values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our military, their families, and survivors.