Lead Nurse (Mental Health): An Opportunity to Serve at Naval Medical Center San Diego
Are you a seasoned nurse looking to pivot into a leadership role within one of the most respected healthcare systems in the country? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a highly motivated Lead Nurse to join the inpatient mental health team at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California. This position offers a unique blend of clinical oversight, staff development, and mission-critical support, all while providing the stability of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Nurse in the Mental Health Ward, your responsibilities extend beyond direct patient care. You will be expected to:
- Formulate Care Plans: Analyze patient admission data to create comprehensive, evidence-based nursing care plans.
- Charge Nursing Duties: Lead daily staff assignments, supervise active-duty personnel, and manage unit workflows to meet changing patient needs.
- Collaboration: Act as a conduit between the multidisciplinary team and the nursing staff.
- Operational Excellence: Maintain equipment, oversee documentation in automated data systems, and ensure that all health records are accurate.
Requirements
This position requires a candidate who meets strict federal eligibility criteria. You must possess:
- A current, unrestricted nursing license.
- At least one full year of professional nursing experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- A degree from an accredited nursing program.
- Clearance eligibility (Secret clearance).
Salary and Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $140,407 - $176,183 per year |
| Location | San Diego, CA |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Benefits | Full Federal Benefits Package |
Benefits
Employees of the DHA enjoy a competitive federal benefits package, including:
- Robust health and life insurance options.
- Federal retirement planning with pension and thrift savings options.
- Generous vacation and sick leave accrual.
- Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified new federal hires.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, remember that federal HR systems are very precise. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less and specifically outlines your hours worked per week, job titles, and dates of employment. Using clear, straightforward language will help HR specialists evaluate your qualifications accurately.
If you are a nurse leader with a passion for mental health and a commitment to serving those who serve, this role at the Naval Medical Center San Diego represents a career-defining opportunity. Apply by July 23, 2026, to be considered for this high-impact position.
Why This Lead Nurse (Mental Health) Job Matters
Lead vital mental health nursing initiatives at the prestigious Naval Medical Center in sunny San Diego, CA.
Lead Nurse (Mental Health) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Lead Nurse for the Mental Health Inpatient Ward at Naval Medical Center, San Diego. This mission-critical role involves providing clinical leadership, coordinating nursing care plans, and supervising staff in a dynamic, high-stakes military healthcare environment. As a key member of the Directorate for Nursing Services, you will play a central role in delivering exceptional care to our nation's service members, retirees, and their families.
Requirements for Lead Nurse (Mental Health)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, active, full, and unrestricted nursing license from a U.S. state, D.C., or territory
- Passage of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
- Graduate degree, bachelor's degree, associate degree, or diploma from an accredited nursing program
- Minimum of one full year of professional nursing experience equivalent to the GS-11 level
- Experience in evaluating nursing care, preparing administrative reports, and supervising personnel
- Completion of a Secret security clearance and drug testing
- Ability to pass a 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Nurse (Mental Health)
- Experience in inpatient mental health settings
- Demonstrated leadership capability in clinical environments
- Strong communication and collaborative skills within multidisciplinary health teams
- Proficiency in utilizing automated medical data systems
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates
- ✓Advanced leave accrual opportunities
- ✓Access to a robust professional development environment
💡 How to Apply Lead Nurse (Mental Health) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Nurse (Mental Health) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, including hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Submit all required documents, including transcripts and a copy of your nursing license.
- Verify that your application package is complete and submitted before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on July 23, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be rejected.
- Use clear, plain language; avoid industry jargon or acronyms that HR reviewers might not recognize.
- Double-check that your transcripts and license are clearly uploaded and legible.
- Verify your submission status on your USAJOBS dashboard shortly after applying.
- Allow extra time for document virus scanning to ensure no errors occur near the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a secret security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance and involves a drug testing requirement.
Can I negotiate my starting salary?
Salary negotiation may be available for candidates who are new to federal service, depending on agency guidelines.
What is the page limit for the resume?
Your resume must be exactly two pages or less. Resumes longer than two pages will be excluded from consideration.
What kind of clearance is needed?
This role requires a Secret security clearance due to the nature of the facility and access to sensitive information.
Is this a remote role?
No, this is an onsite position at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, CA.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is the backbone of healthcare for the Department of Defense. Operating an integrated system that serves over 9.5 million uniformed personnel, retirees, and their families, the DHA is dedicated to medical readiness and world-class patient outcomes. Working at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego places you at the heart of military medicine, surrounded by professionals dedicated to the highest standards of care.