Advance Your Nursing Career with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a role that combines professional growth with a noble mission? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking compassionate Practical Nurses for the Kenner Army Health Clinic in Fort Lee, Virginia. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve military families while enjoying a predictable, family-friendly schedule.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will perform a wide range of outpatient nursing duties. Your daily activities will include:
- Conducting nursing assessments and contributing to patient care plans.
- Performing sterile procedures and maintaining a clean, safe environment.
- Administering medications via oral, topical, and injectable routes.
- Managing medical records and tracking laboratory and radiology results.
- Providing patient education on diet, wellness, and chronic disease management.
- Supporting clinical staff during examinations and critical interventions.
Comparison: Standard Clinical vs. DHA Outpatient
| Feature | Standard Clinic | DHA Outpatient Clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Schedule | Rotating Shifts | Monday-Friday (7-4) |
| Patient Base | General Public | Military & Families |
| Holidays | Variable | Federal Holidays Off |
| Equipment | Standard | Advanced Military Standards |
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Licensure: Current, valid LPN or vocational nurse license.
- Experience: At least one year of experience performing nursing duties such as vital sign measurement and sterile technique.
- Citizenship: Must be a United States citizen.
- Assessment: Must successfully pass drug testing and suitability requirements.
Salary and Benefits
Competitive pay is part of the federal commitment to you. The salary range for this position is $55,546 to $72,210 annually, depending on experience. Additionally, the DHA offers federal benefits, and potentially even recruitment or student loan repayment incentives for top-tier candidates.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Oversized resumes will be disqualified.
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights specific nursing skills like sterile technique and medication management.
- Don't Forget Documentation: Include a copy of your nursing license in your application package.
If you are ready to take the next step in your nursing career, Kenner Army Health Clinic offers a professional environment where your skills will make a tangible difference. Review the requirements and submit your application today to join our mission.
Why This Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on military health. Join the Defense Health Agency as a Practical Nurse and provide essential, patient-centered care for our service members and their families.
Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking dedicated Practical Nurses to join the team at Kenner Army Health Clinic in Fort Lee, Virginia. In this role, you will provide critical outpatient nursing support, working a stable Monday-through-Friday schedule. You will be responsible for clinical documentation, patient assessments, medication administration, and maintaining a sterile environment, all while ensuring the highest standards of care for active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Outpatient)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a current, valid license to practice as a practical or vocational nurse in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Minimum of one year of specialized nursing experience in a hospital, clinic, or supervised medical facility.
- Must be able to successfully complete a drug test.
- Ability to complete a one-year probationary period.
- Must be able to provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Outpatient)
- Proven track record in outpatient nursing environments.
- Proficiency in utilizing electronic health records and medical information systems.
- Demonstrated ability to perform sterile procedures and patient screenings independently.
- Experience in patient education and counseling regarding wellness and chronic illness management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Stable Monday through Friday work schedule (no weekends or federal holidays).
- ✓Opportunity for potential recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Comprehensive federal employee benefits package.
- ✓Potential for student loan repayment programs for high-performing candidates.
- ✓Service to those who have served our nation.
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages or less.
- Prepare a copy of your current nursing license or certification.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload your resume and any required supporting documentation.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with vital signs, sterile techniques, and medication administration.
- Use plain language and avoid internal jargon or abbreviations.
- Double-check that your license information is attached to avoid being disqualified.
- Verify your resume formatting adheres strictly to the two-page limit.
- Monitor your email for status updates after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the working hours for this position?
This role follows a consistent schedule of Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with weekends and federal holidays off.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, this specific position requires one year of specialized experience; education cannot be substituted for the experience requirement.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required, though the position is subject to suitability and fitness adjudication.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is the backbone of healthcare for the Department of Defense. Our mission is to provide world-class medical services to more than 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. Working here means more than just a job; it means joining a dedicated team of professionals who ensure that our military community receives the highest standard of care at all times.