Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Nursing Assistant with the VA in Seattle

Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a real difference? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is hiring Nursing Assistants for the Acute Care Team at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System in Seattle, Washington. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide high-quality, compassionate care to the heroes who have served our nation.

Job Responsibilities

As a member of the Acute Care Team, your duties will be essential to patient recovery and comfort. Key responsibilities include:

Assisting patients with activities of daily living, including feeding, bathing, and mobility.
Monitoring and recording vital signs, EKGs, and specimen collection.
Reporting changes in patient physical or mental status to the nursing team.
Assisting with admissions, discharges, and transfers.
Maintaining a clean, clutter-free, and therapeutic environment.
Mentoring newer staff members on clinical protocols and patient care procedures.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements:

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Experience	Six months of general experience or relevant education
Language	Proficient in written and spoken English
Background	Must pass security and drug screenings
Vaccination	Mandatory annual influenza immunization

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $42,127 to $68,781. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides an exceptional total rewards package:

Paid Time Off: Between 37 and 50 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday leave per year.
Retirement: Federal pension plan and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with up to 5% matching.
Insurance: Extensive choices for health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
Work-Life Balance: Access to child care subsidies for eligible employees.

How to Apply

Applying for a federal position requires attention to detail. Ensure you have your resume, unofficial transcripts, and any applicable SF-50 forms ready. You must complete the online application questionnaire through the USAJOBS portal before the September 30, 2026, deadline.

If you are ready to elevate your career while honoring those who have served, we encourage you to apply. The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System provides an unparalleled environment for professional growth and personal fulfillment. Submit your application today and become part of a team dedicated to excellence in patient care.

Why This Nursing Assistant (Acute Care Team) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served. Join the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System’s elite Acute Care Team and provide compassionate, life-changing care to our nation’s Veterans.

Nursing Assistant (Acute Care Team) Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking dedicated Nursing Assistants to join the Acute Care Team at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System. In this role, you will work within one of the nation's most complex and interdisciplinary healthcare systems, providing essential support to registered nurses and providers. You will assist Veterans with diverse health needs—ranging from acute conditions to palliative care—ensuring they receive the high-quality, respectful service they have earned.

Requirements for Nursing Assistant (Acute Care Team)

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be proficient in both written and spoken English.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Subject to a background and security investigation.
Must complete mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain a valid medical/religious exemption.
Must serve a 1- or 2-year trial period.

Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant (Acute Care Team)

Proven experience in clinical settings, including hospital, long-term care, or outpatient environments.
Demonstrated ability to assist in the full range of nursing care under the direction of an RN or LPN.
Proficiency in basic medical equipment such as bladder scanners, blood glucose monitors, and mobility aids.
Strong communication skills for interacting with interdisciplinary teams and Veteran families.
Experience mentoring new staff or acting as a preceptor in a clinical setting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays
✓Paid parental leave (up to 12 weeks after 12 months of service)
✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs
✓Traditional federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching
✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees

💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant (Acute Care Team) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Nursing Assistant (Acute Care Team) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Download the standard Clinical Resume document template provided by the VA.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload your resume, transcripts, and relevant certifications or SF-50 forms.
Submit your application package by the closing date of September 30, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific: Describe your experience in detail as the hiring team cannot make assumptions.
Use the template: Utilize the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA.
Highlight KSAs: While not strictly required, submitting written responses to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) can strengthen your candidacy.
Check documents: Ensure all transcripts are legible and include the school name, your name, and degree conferred.
Monitor status: Keep track of your application via the USAJOBS portal dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay scale for this position?

The position is a Nursing Assistant role within the GS-3 to GS-5 range, with an annual salary of $42,127 to $68,781 depending on qualifications and experience.

Is this a remote or telework position?

No. This is a hands-on clinical position within a hospital setting, and telework is not available.

What is the shift structure?

The positions involve night shifts, typically 7:30 PM to 8:00 AM or 11:30 PM to 8:00 AM, with rotating weekends.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is a Level 1a teaching hospital, recognized as one of the most complex and robust healthcare systems in the United States. Working here means joining a team that values Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE).