Nursing Excellence at the St. Cloud VA: Join Our Mental Health Team
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served. At the St. Cloud VA Healthcare System, we are currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to join our outpatient mental health team. If you are a dedicated nursing professional looking to make a profound impact on the lives of Veterans, we invite you to explore this opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPN in our Mental Health Outpatient Clinic, your daily duties include:
- Performing clinical nursing tasks such as rooming patients and gathering vital signs.
- Administering medications, including injections and immunizations.
- Assisting with telehealth coordination.
- Providing patient education regarding treatment plans and disease management.
- Supporting the interdisciplinary care team during assessments and procedures.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Basic requirements met; entry-level scope |
| GS-4 | 6 months experience or specific educational completion |
| GS-5 | 1 year at GS-4 level; full range of practical care |
| GS-6 | 1 year at GS-5 level; technical proficiency in complex procedures |
Requirements
Applicants must hold an active, unrestricted LPN/LVN license. Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory. Candidates must also participate in mandatory pre-employment drug screening and physicals. Proficiency in Basic Life Support (BLS) is required for all patient-facing roles.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $51,357 to $84,578. The final pay grade is determined by individual qualifications and experience. The VA also offers regular pay increases and potential for higher step placement for specialized skills.
Benefits
Federal employees receive an industry-leading benefits package:
- Retirement: Traditional pension and 401(k) style plan with up to 5% matching.
- Leave: Substantial annual, sick, and federal holiday time off.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- Support: Paid parental leave and child care subsidies for eligible employees.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, use the standard clinical resume document template available on the VA Careers website. Ensure every KSA (Knowledge, Skill, and Ability) is reflected in your work history. Because this is an open-continuous announcement, submitting your application early is highly encouraged.
Serving our nation’s Veterans is a unique honor. By joining the St. Cloud VA, you are not just taking a job; you are becoming part of a community that values your expertise and commitment to health care excellence. Apply today to begin your journey.
Why This Licensed Practical Nurse- Outpatient Mental Health Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career dedicated to supporting those who served. Join the St. Cloud VA Healthcare System and provide vital mental health nursing care to our nation's Veterans.
Licensed Practical Nurse- Outpatient Mental Health Job Overview
The VA Saint Cloud Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to join our Outpatient Mental Health team. In this role, you will play a crucial part in the Whole Health System of care, providing compassionate, patient-centered support to Veterans. Working under the direction of an RN or Provider, you will perform focused assessments, assist with treatment plans, and provide essential patient education in an environment that honors service and promotes well-being.
Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse- Outpatient Mental Health
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Active, unrestricted LPN or LVN license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Graduate of an approved practical or vocational nursing program
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening
- Must obtain and maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
- Participation in annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Practical Nurse- Outpatient Mental Health
- Prior professional experience in Mental Health settings
- Experience or training in Telehealth nursing practices
- Demonstrated ability to function within an interdisciplinary healthcare team
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance options
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 paid holidays
- ✓12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Child care subsidy eligibility
- ✓Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) up to $100,000 for qualifying roles
💡 How to Apply Licensed Practical Nurse- Outpatient Mental Health Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Practical Nurse- Outpatient Mental Health Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Prepare your resume using the required clinical resume format
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and licenses
- Submit your application package before the closing date
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal and email
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA clinical resume template provided on their careers site
- Be detailed and specific when describing your nursing experience in your resume
- Ensure your transcript clearly shows your name, school, program, and completion status
- Double-check that your license is active and unrestricted before applying
- Review your application package for completeness before the deadline
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay range for this position?
The salary range is $51,357 to $84,578 per year, depending on qualifications, experience, and the grade level of the final selection (GS-3 through GS-6).
Does this position offer student loan repayment?
Yes, this series is eligible for the Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP), offering up to $40,000 annually with a $100,000 lifetime limit for participants who sign a three-year service agreement.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The St. Cloud VA Health Care System has provided exceptional medical care to central Minnesota Veterans since 1924. Our facility, along with community-based clinics in Alexandria, Brainerd, and Montevideo, serves over 38,000 Veterans annually. We embrace a 'Whole Health' model, focusing on personalized health plans and healing relationships.