Launch Your Healthcare Career at the Battle Creek VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of American healthcare, dedicated to providing exceptional service to those who served our country. If you are a compassionate healthcare professional looking for a stable and fulfilling career, the Battle Creek VA Medical Center is currently hiring for a Nursing Assistant. This position offers a unique chance to work in a facility recognized as a hub for mental health excellence in Michigan, providing you with a platform for professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you are the heartbeat of the patient care team. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Providing essential resident care: bathing, grooming, and dressing.
- Taking and charting vital signs and monitoring physical changes.
- Assisting physicians and nurses with complex procedures like catheterization and oxygen therapy.
- engaging residents in meaningful activities to improve their quality of life.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to update resident care plans.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following baseline criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Proficiency: Excellent command of written and spoken English.
- Education/Experience: Six months of general experience OR one year of relevant post-high school education OR specialized training.
- Condition of Employment: Successfully pass drug testing, security background checks, and the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Qualification Basis |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Entry Level; meets basic requirements |
| GS-4 | One year specialized experience or 2 years post-high school education |
| GS-5 | One year of GS-4 equivalent experience or 4-year degree with 24 hours of health care credits |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $39,858 to $65,076 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the federal government offers one of the best benefit packages available, including:
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k) (TSP) options.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Work-Life Balance: Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
- Support: Childcare subsidies for eligible families.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume template. Always use this to avoid common application errors.
- Detail Your Experience: Do not rely on HR to assume your skills. List every relevant duty clearly.
- Review Documents: Ensure every required document—SF-50, transcripts, and certifications—is uploaded before clicking submit.
Serving our nation’s Veterans is a noble and rewarding calling. If you are ready to bring your clinical skills to an environment that values professional development and patient advocacy, the Battle Creek VA Medical Center wants to meet you. Apply today to start your journey with the VA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the work schedule like? A: The position requires shift work, typically 12-hour shifts (7:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. or 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.), rotating based on the needs of the unit.
Q: Is there a trial period? A: Yes, all new appointees are required to serve a 2-year trial period to ensure fitness for the role.
Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the dedicated nursing team at the Battle Creek VA Medical Center.
Nursing Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a compassionate and skilled Nursing Assistant to join the Community Living Center team in Battle Creek, Michigan. This role is perfect for healthcare professionals dedicated to providing direct, high-quality patient care to Veterans. You will work alongside an interdisciplinary team to implement unique care plans, assist with daily living activities, and monitor patient health, playing a vital role in our recovery-oriented healthcare environment.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Completion of six months of general experience OR one year of education above high school OR specialized vocational training.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Must undergo a background and security investigation.
- Ability to perform physical tasks including walking, standing, bending, and transferring patients.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Completion of a two-year trial period upon appointment.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant
- One year of specialized experience in a medical setting such as a hospital or long-term care facility.
- Demonstrated ability to recognize and respond to emergent patient care needs.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with patients, families, and multidisciplinary staff.
- Experience in restorative nursing and assisting with complex physical examinations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal health, vision, and dental insurance programs.
- âś“Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- âś“Federal 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with up to 5% employer matching.
- âś“Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- âś“Childcare subsidy eligibility for qualifying families.
- âś“Generous annual leave accrual based on federal service time.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA link.
- Prepare your supporting documentation, including transcripts and any relevant professional certifications.
- Submit your complete application package, including the questionnaire, through the USAJOBS portal by the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation notifications.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific and clear in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Include all volunteer and military service experience as it counts toward your qualification.
- Ensure your transcript is attached if your education is being used to meet qualification requirements.
- Download the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to streamline your application.
- Double-check your submission before the deadline to ensure all required documents are included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Nursing Assistant at the Battle Creek VA?
You will provide direct resident care in the Community Living Center, including bathing, feeding, monitoring vital signs, and assisting the medical team with nursing procedures.
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I qualify for this position without a degree?
Yes. While education can qualify you, you may also qualify based on six months of relevant work experience or specialized training.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. The Battle Creek VAMC serves over 42,000 Veterans across 22 counties in southwestern Michigan. With 276 beds and a variety of inpatient and outpatient services, the facility is deeply committed to evidence-based, recovery-oriented care.