Become a Practical Nurse (Surgical) at Madigan Army Medical Center
Are you a dedicated nursing professional looking to advance your career while serving those who serve our country? The Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington, is currently seeking a highly skilled Practical Nurse (Surgical) to join our esteemed Department of Surgery. This is a unique opportunity to apply your surgical expertise within the Defense Health Agency, a world-class integrated healthcare system.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will perform a wide range of nursing duties, including:
- Providing comprehensive nursing care for patients in surgical, pre-operative, and post-operative settings.
- Administering medications through various routes including oral, topical, and intramuscular.
- Assisting surgical teams during complex medical and diagnostic procedures.
- Maintaining a sterile environment and managing surgical instruments.
- Monitoring patient vitals and emergency equipment status.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Licensure: Must possess a valid, current practical or vocational nurse license.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience in a supervised medical facility.
- Physical/Conduct: Must be able to pass a drug test and undergo a background check.
Comparison: General Nursing vs. Surgical Nursing
| Feature | General Nursing | Surgical Nursing (DHA) |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Wards/General Practice | Surgical Suites |
| Sterile Focus | Standard hygiene | Strict sterile protocol |
| Patient Interaction | Routine care | Pre/Post-op focus |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position ranges from $51,037 to $66,348 per year, including applicable locality pay. Salary negotiation may be possible for those new to federal service.
Benefits
Employees of the DHA enjoy a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, and potential recruitment/relocation incentives for highly qualified individuals.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume concise; it must not exceed two pages.
- Detail your work experience with exact dates and hours per week.
- Include a copy of your nursing license in your application package.
Why This Practical Nurse (Surgical) Job Matters
Join the elite nursing team at Madigan Army Medical Center and play a vital role in providing critical surgical care to our service members and their families.
Practical Nurse (Surgical) Job Overview
The Department of Surgery at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington, is seeking a dedicated Practical Nurse (Surgical) to join our surgical team. In this role, you will provide essential patient care in diverse clinical settings, including surgical, pre-operative, and post-operative departments. You will work directly with physicians to ensure the highest standards of care and assist in both routine and complex surgical procedures.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Surgical)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Valid, current 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, outpatient clinic, or medical facility.
- Demonstrated ability to perform surgical pre- and post-operative procedures.
- Familiarity with sterile techniques and human body structure.
- Must be able to pass a drug test.
- Must complete a one-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Surgical)
- Proven experience working in a fast-paced, high-acuity surgical environment.
- Strong communication and collaborative skills for multidisciplinary team settings.
- Ability to manage complex medical equipment and patient monitoring systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health and Retirement benefits
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates
- ✓Professional development opportunities within a major military treatment facility
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Surgical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Surgical) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less and clearly documents your relevant nursing experience.
- Complete the online application questionnaire through the provided portal.
- Upload required documentation, including proof of licensure and supporting documents.
- Submit your full application package by the closing date of July 17, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for each position.
- Use clear, plain language and avoid excessive use of complex acronyms.
- Verify that your license or certification is clearly attached to your application package.
- Check your application status regularly via the USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a college degree required for this position?
The primary requirement is licensure as a practical or vocational nurse and relevant work experience. Substitution of education for experience is not permitted.
Can I negotiate my salary?
Salary negotiation may be available for candidates who are new to the Federal government service.
Is remote work or telework an option?
No, this position is onsite at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington.
What is the closing date?
Applications must be submitted by July 17, 2026.
Can I work from home?
No, this is an onsite position.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is a mission-driven organization dedicated to delivering healthcare services to 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. By joining the Madigan team, you contribute to a strategic partner that ensures worldwide medical, dental, and pharmacy readiness. We value inspired professionals who are committed to clinical excellence.