Providing Compassionate Care: Nursing Assistant Opportunities at VA Puget Sound
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical expertise with a deep sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking dedicated Nursing Assistants (Long Term Care) to join the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System. This role is perfect for healthcare professionals who are passionate about supporting our nation’s Veterans and working within a collaborative, mission-driven team.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you will act as the backbone of our Community Living Center. Your day-to-day duties include:
- Assisting Veterans with activities of daily living (ADLs).
- Performing restorative care as outlined in individualized treatment plans.
- Monitoring vital signs, blood glucose, and other health markers.
- Assisting with the admission, transfer, and discharge of patients.
- Mentoring new nursing staff and coordinating care with the interdisciplinary team.
Comparison of Clinical Roles
| Feature | Nursing Assistant (GS-3) | Nursing Assistant (GS-5) |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Required | Entry Level | Advanced/Specialized |
| Responsibilities | Basic Patient Support | Full Range of Nursing Care |
| Autonomy | High Supervision | Moderate/Minimal Supervision |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet basic federal requirements, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- English language proficiency.
- Completion of specialized training or equivalent experience.
- Ability to pass background investigations and drug screenings.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $42,127 to $68,781, commensurate with your experience and the specific grade level (GS-3 to GS-5) for which you qualify.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA offers a comprehensive rewards package:
- Paid Time Off: 37–50 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday leave.
- Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401K options.
- Insurance: High-quality health, dental, and vision plans.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your application documents are complete. Use the provided Clinical Resume template—this is a specialized document that helps our HR team quickly evaluate your skills. Be specific about your experience with geriatric patients or long-term care facilities.
Providing care for Veterans is a unique and rewarding professional path. If you are ready to use your skills to promote independence and dignity for our nation’s heroes, apply today to join the VA Puget Sound team.
Why This Nursing Assistant (Long Term Care) Job Matters
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who served our nation by joining the dedicated care team at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System.
Nursing Assistant (Long Term Care) Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is seeking a compassionate Nursing Assistant to provide clinical support to Veterans in our Community Living Center. In this role, you will work closely with Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses to deliver high-quality care, advocate for Veteran rights, and assist with daily living activities, rehabilitation exercises, and clinical treatments. As part of one of the nation’s most complex healthcare systems, you will contribute to an environment of respect, integrity, and clinical excellence while helping elderly and frail Veterans maintain their independence and quality of life.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant (Long Term Care)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Background and security investigation clearance
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Completion of a 1- or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant (Long Term Care)
- At least one year of experience working in a nursing home or long-term care setting
- Prior experience in medical fields such as hospital corpsman, health technician, or LPN
- Educational background in health care, nursing, or related psychiatric/geriatric programs
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays annually
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Federal 401K plan with up to 5% matching
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees
- ✓Traditional federal pension
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant (Long Term Care) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant (Long Term Care) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather required documentation (SF-50, transcripts, etc.)
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA link
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload your resume and all relevant certifications or documents
- Submit your application package before the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume reflects all volunteer and paid experience clearly.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; be specific about your clinical duties.
- Upload the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to streamline your application.
- Double-check that all required fields are filled out to avoid disqualification.
- Check your USAJOBS dashboard regularly for status updates on your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical pay range for this position?
The salary range for this Nursing Assistant position is $42,127 to $68,781 per year, depending on the grade level (GS-3 to GS-5) for which you qualify.
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
No, you do not need to be a veteran to apply. The position is open to U.S. citizens who meet the clinical and qualification standards.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite clinical position at the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System in Seattle, Washington.
What is the work schedule like?
*A: The schedule includes rotating day shifts, weekends, and holidays.*
Is there an opportunity for career advancement?
*A: Yes, as a federal employee, you will have access to training and promotion opportunities across the entire VA network.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is one of the most complex and robust healthcare networks in the United States. Serving as a Level 1a teaching facility, it offers a full spectrum of services, from rehabilitation and psychiatric care to critical specialty medical care. We operate under the 'I CARE' core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Joining our team means joining a community that honors those who have served.