Advance Your Career as a Clinical Nurse Educator with the VA
Are you a dedicated nursing professional looking to shift your focus from bedside care to clinical leadership? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering an exceptional opportunity for a Clinical Nurse Educator at the Richmond VA Medical Center. This role is designed for those who believe that continuous learning is the cornerstone of excellent patient care. In this position, you will play a vital role in shaping the competency and confidence of the nursing staff, ultimately improving the lives of the Veterans we serve.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Nurse Educator, your work will be diverse and highly influential. You will serve as a bridge between current clinical research and daily practice. Your core duties will include:
- Needs Assessment: Evaluating clinical staff performance to identify knowledge gaps and training requirements.
- Instructional Design: Creating curricula that leverage adult learning principles, including simulation, virtual reality, and case studies.
- Mentorship: Providing direct coaching to clinical staff and guiding new employees through their orientation processes.
- Collaboration: Partnering with interprofessional teams and leadership to propose practice revisions based on the latest evidence-based literature.
- Data Analysis: Interpreting outcomes data to assess the effectiveness of your training programs.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria regarding education and licensure. The requirements ensure that our educators maintain the high standards required by the VHA:
- Must hold a current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license.
- Must have graduated from an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing school.
- Must demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Must be able to pass a background check and physical examination.
Grade Determination Table
| Position Grade | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | BSN OR ADN/Diploma | 1 year specialized |
| Nurse I, Level III | BSN OR ADN/Diploma | 1-2 years specialized |
| Nurse II | BSN or higher | 1-2 years specialized |
| Nurse III | MSN or higher | 2 years specialized |
Salary Overview
The salary for this role is highly competitive, ranging from $82,228 to $163,760 per year. The exact compensation is determined based on your unique combination of education, years of experience, and scope of practice. The VA also provides regular salary increases and performance-based awards to recognize your commitment.
Benefits
Choosing a career with the VA comes with a robust "total rewards" package. Employees enjoy:
- Work-Life Balance: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave annually.
- Financial Security: A solid federal pension and a 401K-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
- Healthcare: Access to comprehensive federal health, vision, and dental insurance plans.
- Support: Continuous investment in your professional development as a nursing practitioner.
Application Tips
To stand out, make sure your application is precise. The hiring board looks for evidence of the 'five dimensions of nursing': Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Research. Use your resume to provide concrete examples of how you have demonstrated these qualities in your career. Finally, always double-check that you have uploaded the mandatory one-page clinical resume document provided in the job announcement.
If you are ready to make a significant impact on nursing practice and serve our nation's heroes, we invite you to apply for the Clinical Nurse Educator position. Join a team where your expertise creates a ripple effect of excellence across our healthcare system.
Why This Clinical Nurse Educator Job Matters
Shape the future of veteran healthcare by empowering the nurses who serve our nation's heroes. Join the Richmond VA Medical Center as a Clinical Nurse Educator and turn your passion for clinical excellence into impactful staff development.
Clinical Nurse Educator Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Clinical Nurse Educator to join the team in Richmond, Virginia. This pivotal role focuses on improving patient outcomes by assessing, planning, and implementing high-quality educational programs for nursing staff. As a leader in adult learning, you will guide clinical teams, oversee orientation for new hires, and utilize evidence-based research to elevate nursing standards across the facility.
Requirements for Clinical Nurse Educator
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be appointed only if qualified citizens are unavailable)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Graduate of a school of professional nursing accredited by ACEN or CCNE
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Nurse Educator
- 5 years of mental health nursing experience
- Prior experience in mental health education
- Nurse Professional Development Practitioner (NPDP) certification
- Master's Degree in Nursing or a related field
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Generous leave: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid holidays
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance options
- ✓Portable federal insurance benefits for retirement
- ✓Regular salary increases and performance-based awards
💡 How to Apply Clinical Nurse Educator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Nurse Educator Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and prepare the standard Clinical Resume Document provided by the VA.
- Complete the full online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, license, and any supporting documentation (e.g., DD-214, transcripts).
- Submit your final application package before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your internal daily tasks.
- Clearly address the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Research.
- Ensure your standard clinical resume document is uploaded to the correct two-page restricted field.
- Double-check that all certifications and licenses are current and clearly stated.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues on the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position remote?
No, this is an onsite position in Richmond, Virginia, with only ad-hoc telework availability.
What is the pay range for this role?
The salary range for this position is $82,228 to $163,760 per year, depending on your education, experience, and grade determination.
Are there specific education requirements?
Yes, you must be a graduate of an accredited nursing program. The grade level you qualify for depends on your degree (ADN, BSN, MSN, or Doctorate) and your years of specialized experience.
Is there an age limit for this position?
*A: No, the VA is an equal opportunity employer.
What is the work schedule?
*A: This position generally operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Providing care to those who have served our country is not just a job; it is a profound responsibility. At the Richmond VAMC, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of professional growth, evidence-based innovation, and compassionate service. Working here means you are part of a team that values your expertise and supports your development as a clinical leader.