Advance Your Nursing Career with the West Texas VA Health Care System

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking compassionate and highly skilled Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to join the West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS). If you are looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with the honor of serving our nation's Veterans, this is an exceptional opportunity. These roles are available across several locations in Texas and New Mexico, offering a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much.

Job Responsibilities

As a Nurse Practitioner, you will function as a licensed independent practitioner, practicing to the full extent of your education, training, and certification. Your core responsibilities will include:

Developing and coordinating systems of patient care that emphasize communication and teamwork.
Providing comprehensive healthcare services to individuals, families, and groups in various settings.
Acting independently or in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes.
Leading evidence-based initiatives to enhance the quality and timeliness of Veteran care.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Education: Completion of an NP master's or doctoral degree from an accredited program (ACEN or CCNE).
Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted APN license in a U.S. state or territory.
Certification: Must maintain board certification (e.g., PMHNP, FNP, AGACNP) from a nationally recognized certifying body.
Physical Requirements: Must be able to perform duties requiring lifting, walking, and standing for 8-12 hour shifts.

Salary Overview

The salary range for these positions is highly competitive, reflecting the professional expertise required:

Pay Grade	Salary Range	Experience Requirement
Nurse II	$115,193 - $171,585	Entry level, no experience required
Nurse III	$115,193 - $171,585	1 year of specialized NP experience

Benefits

The VA offers a total rewards package that is among the best in the healthcare industry:

Paid Time Off: 50 days per year (26 annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays).
Retirement: Traditional federal pension and 401(k) with 5% agency matching.
Insurance: Full federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
Loan Repayment: Potential eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).

Application Tips

Use the Template: Download and upload the standard Clinical Resume document provided on the VA Careers website.
Be Specific: In your application, clearly document your clinical practice hours and specific populations managed.
Stay Current: Ensure all board certifications are active and that your transcript shows the required accreditation.
Apply Early: Don't wait until the closing date of 12/31/2026; submit your complete package via the USAJobs portal as soon as possible.

Joining the West Texas VA Health Care System is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of our Veterans. With a robust benefits package, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work in a collaborative, innovative environment, this position offers a pathway to professional fulfillment. Apply today to start your journey with the VA.

Why This Nurse Practitioner (Internal To West Texas Va Healthcare System) Job Matters

Join the West Texas VA Health Care System and elevate your nursing career by providing essential, high-quality care to those who have served our nation.

Nurse Practitioner (Internal To West Texas Va Healthcare System) Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking dedicated Nurse Practitioners to join the West Texas VA Health Care System. This role offers the opportunity to practice to the full extent of your licensure in various clinical settings. Whether you are providing primary care, mental health services, or specialized patient support, you will play a vital role in our mission to serve Veterans. Positions are available in multiple West Texas and New Mexico locations, including Big Spring, San Angelo, and Odessa.

Requirements for Nurse Practitioner (Internal To West Texas Va Healthcare System)

U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered if no qualified citizens are available).
Active, current, full, and unrestricted Nurse Practitioner license in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
Graduate of an accredited Nurse Practitioner program (ACEN or CCNE recognized).
Current board certification (e.g., PMHNP, FNP, ACNP, WHNP, etc.) from a nationally recognized body.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Nurse Practitioner (Internal To West Texas Va Healthcare System)

One year of specialized Advanced Practice Nurse experience for grade III positions.
Leadership experience in interdisciplinary healthcare settings.
Demonstrated ability to manage complex patient panels using evidence-based practice.
Strong communication skills for team-based clinical environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive base salary with regular increases.
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
✓Generous paid time off: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
✓11 paid Federal holidays.
✓Federal pension and 401(k) retirement plan with up to 5% agency matching.
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility for qualifying positions.
✓Performance award potential.

💡 How to Apply Nurse Practitioner (Internal To West Texas Va Healthcare System) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Nurse Practitioner (Internal To West Texas Va Healthcare System) Job

Create or log in to your USAJobs account.
Review the full vacancy announcement and prepare required documents (Resume, SF-50 if applicable, License, etc.).
Complete the required online questionnaire.
Upload the standard Clinical Resume document along with your full CV.
Submit your application package before the closing date of 12/31/2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your clinical experience and scope of practice.
Use the provided Clinical Resume template to ensure your application is properly formatted.
Verify your school's accreditation status via the provided links before applying.
Check your application status regularly through your USAJobs account.
Apply early to ensure all documentation is received and reviewed before the cutoff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available?

Yes, some positions are eligible for the EDRP. Eligibility and award amounts are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program after a review of your application.

Can I work remotely?

No, this is not a virtual position. You will be required to work on-site at the assigned facility.

Are there different requirements for different grade levels?

Yes. Nurse II is the entry level and requires no experience. Nurse III requires the basic education plus one year of specialized experience at the Nurse II level.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The West Texas VA Health Care System is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served and their families. Located in Big Spring, Texas—a vibrant city known as the "Crossroads of West Texas"—the facility utilizes state-of-the-art technology to provide inpatient and outpatient services to a population of approximately 57,000 Veterans. Working with the VA means joining a mission-driven organization that values your professional growth, work-life balance, and long-term career stability.