Launch Your Federal Nursing Career with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a dedicated practical or vocational nurse seeking a stable and impactful career? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring for Practical Nurse (Outpatient) positions across various locations in Texas. This is a unique opportunity to provide critical support to military service members, retirees, and their families within a high-stakes, rewarding environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Practical Nurse (Outpatient), you will handle a diverse range of clinical duties. Responsibilities include:
- Providing high-quality practical nursing care in outpatient clinical settings.
- Recording and monitoring vital signs and assisting with medical procedures.
- Administering medications and immunizations with precision.
- Educating patients and families on treatment plans and post-procedure care.
- Utilizing electronic health records (EHR) to coordinate patient care and schedule follow-ups.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet strict federal qualifications.
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen |
| Licensure | Active LPN/LVN License in any U.S. State/Territory |
| Experience | 1 Year of specialized nursing experience |
| Resume Limit | 2 Pages Max |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $62,008 to $80,611 per year, commensurate with qualifications. Furthermore, the agency may offer salary negotiation for candidates new to federal service.
Benefits
Employees of the DHA may be eligible for a robust suite of federal benefits, including potential student loan repayment, recruitment incentives for high-performers, and travel allowances for qualified relocation needs.
Application Tips
- Follow the Page Limit: The two-page rule is strictly enforced.
- Detail is King: Ensure your resume highlights your specific duties, including hours worked per week.
- Use Plain Language: Make it easy for HR staff to map your experience to the job requirements.
The role of a Practical Nurse within the Defense Health Agency is more than a job; it is a commitment to service. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to advance your nursing career in an environment that prioritizes patient readiness and collaborative excellence, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in federal healthcare as a Practical Nurse with the Defense Health Agency, supporting those who serve our nation.
Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is seeking dedicated Practical Nurses for outpatient clinical settings across Texas, including San Antonio and Fort Sam Houston. This direct-hire opportunity is perfect for professionals looking to provide high-quality care to military service members and their families. As part of a dynamic, integrated healthcare system, you will play a vital role in patient outcomes, clinical coordination, and medical readiness in a fast-paced outpatient environment.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Outpatient)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a current, active license 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 clinical, hospital, or medical setting.
- Proficiency in sterile techniques, vital sign monitoring, immunization, and medication administration.
- Resume must be two pages or less.
- Ability to pass a drug test.
- Must successfully undergo suitability and fitness adjudication.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Outpatient)
- Experience with electronic health record (EHR) management.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate laboratory orders, radiology, and patient referrals.
- Strong communication skills for patient and family education.
- Proven experience working in team-based clinical environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Potential for student loan repayment programs.
- ✓Salary negotiation options for new federal employees.
- ✓Relocation or recruitment incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Access to a comprehensive Federal benefits package (for permanent positions).
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within a major federal healthcare system.
- ✓Potential for permanent change of station (PCS) allowances.
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, detailing relevant experience by month and year.
- Complete the online questionnaire through the provided application portal.
- Upload all required documentation, including your nursing license and performance appraisals.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check your resume length; any resume over two pages will be excluded from consideration.
- Clearly articulate your hours worked per week for each listed role to prove specialized experience.
- Avoid acronyms and industry jargon that may not be understood by HR reviewers.
- Submit all documents at once to ensure your application package is marked as complete.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
This announcement is for an open continuous pool. Depending on the vacancy, positions may be permanent, temporary, or term-limited.
Can I substitute my education for experience?
No, this specific position requires one year of specialized nursing experience. Education cannot be substituted for this requirement.
What if I don't have a license yet?
You must have applied for your license to be considered, but you must be fully licensed by the end of your probationary period.
Will I need to relocate?
This is a localized position in Texas, though some permanent change of station (PCS) allowances may be authorized for specific vacancies.
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system responsible for delivering medical services across the Department of Defense. With a mission to build readiness and improve health for over 9.5 million beneficiaries, the DHA stands as a strategic partner in global military operations. Joining the DHA means becoming part of a team that values inspired professionals and excellence in patient care.