Launch Your Healthcare Career: Nursing Assistant Role at the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs is currently recruiting a motivated Nursing Assistant to join the team at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) in North Chicago, Illinois. This position offers a unique chance to support Veterans and active-duty military personnel in a world-class, integrated healthcare environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant (GS-5), you are an essential part of the inpatient nursing care team. Your responsibilities include:
- Providing individualized nursing care for patients with diverse chronic, sub-acute, and acute needs.
- Ensuring the dignity, privacy, and cultural/religious preferences of every patient are respected.
- Acting as a mentor and preceptor for new team members.
- Monitoring patient health and intervening during emergent medical situations while awaiting senior nursing assistance.
- Communicating effectively with interdisciplinary teams and family members to ensure continuity of care.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following federal employment standards:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be proficient in both spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a comprehensive pre-employment physical.
- Successful completion of background and security investigations.
- Compliance with the VA's seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $49,449 - $64,285 |
| Leave Benefits | Up to 50 days (annual, sick, holidays) |
| Retirement | Pension + 401k (matching up to 5%) |
| Parental Leave | 12 weeks paid (after 1 year) |
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires meticulous attention to detail. Always use the standard VA Clinical Resume template provided on their careers website. Because hiring managers cannot make assumptions about your experience, ensure that every skill—including volunteer work—is clearly articulated and documented on your resume.
This position is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide compassionate, whole-person care to the men and women who have sacrificed for our country. If you have the clinical skills and the desire to serve, we encourage you to submit your application by the closing date.
Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on those who served our nation by joining the Inpatient Geriatric Services team at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center.
Nursing Assistant Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Nursing Assistant to join the Inpatient Geriatric Services team in North Chicago, Illinois. As a member of the nursing care team, you will provide compassionate, individualized care to Veterans and their families in a facility recognized for its interdisciplinary teaching environment. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to help patients manage chronic, acute, and sub-acute illnesses with dignity and respect.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant
- Must be a United States Citizen.
- Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Submit to urinalysis for illegal drug screening.
- Register with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Undergo a background and security investigation.
- Provide acceptable identification for pre-employment requirements.
- Participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant
- One year of progressively responsible experience equivalent to the GS-4 level.
- Demonstrated ability to assist with the full range of nursing care for patients in hospital or long-term care settings.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
- Ability to act as a preceptor for new staff members.
- Proficiency in recognizing and reacting to emergent medical situations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases.
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 37-50 days of leave and holidays annually).
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with agency matching.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months.
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA career site link.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including transcripts and any relevant professional certifications.
- Submit the completed online application and questionnaire before the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if prompted via email notification.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to clearly reflect your clinical experience, even if it was volunteer-based.
- Follow the specific formatting instructions for the Clinical Resume Document provided by the VA.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
- Ensure all documents are submitted at least 24 hours before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Nursing Assistant at the FHCC?
You will serve as a key member of the nursing care team, providing direct patient care for geriatric residents while also mentoring newer staff and collaborating with licensed nursing personnel.
Can I qualify for this position without a degree?
Yes, candidates can qualify through a combination of general experience, specialized training, or education. Please review the detailed requirements section for specific combinations.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Providing comprehensive care to our nation's heroes, the VA fosters an environment of continuous learning and professional development. Working at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center means participating in a unique mission where VA and Department of Defense resources collaborate to provide the best possible care for those who have served.