Advance Your Nursing Career at the Iowa City VA
The Iowa City Veterans Affairs Health Care System (ICVAHCS) is currently seeking a highly skilled Registered Nurse to join their Critical Care Float pool. This is an exceptional opportunity for clinicians who thrive in high-acuity environments and are committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to those who have served our country. If you are a dedicated professional looking for career stability, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to work in a leading research environment, this role is for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Critical Care Float RN, you will be responsible for the high-intensity, life-saving care of acutely ill Veterans. Key responsibilities include:
- Executing the full nursing process, from assessment to intervention.
- Managing complex patient monitoring technology.
- Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to improve patient outcomes.
- Providing patient education and coordinating care continuity.
- Contributing to hospital-wide quality improvement initiatives.
Comparison: Standard RN vs. VA Critical Care Float
| Feature | Standard RN Role | VA Critical Care Float |
|---|---|---|
| Salary Range | Varies | $73,696 - $122,961 |
| Loan Repayment | Rarely provided | EDRP (up to $200k) |
| Paid Time Off | Standard | 50 Days/Year |
| Retirement | Varies | Federal Pension + 401(k) |
Requirements
- Education: Completion of an accredited nursing program (ADN, Diploma, BSN, or higher).
- Licensure: Active, unrestricted RN license from any U.S. State or territory.
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required, with rare exceptions for non-citizens.
- Medical: Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $73,696 to $122,961 per year, depending on education and experience. The VA also provides locality pay adjustments and performance-based awards to ensure salaries remain market-competitive.
Benefits
Beyond salary, VA nurses enjoy a comprehensive "Total Rewards" package, including:
- Insurance: Full selection of federal health, dental, and vision plans.
- Retirement: Dual-path retirement through a federal pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Flexibility: Paid parental leave and generous accrual rates for annual and sick leave.
- Support: Transit subsidies and education assistance through EDRP.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your resume specifically outlines your work in the five VA nursing dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence/Based Practice. Use the provided clinical resume template to streamline the verification of your skills.
The Iowa City VA offers more than just a paycheck; it offers a mission. Join a team where your expertise directly impacts the well-being of Veterans. Apply today via the official USAJobs portal to begin your journey.
Why This Registered Nurse - Critical Care Float Job Matters
Elevate your nursing career at the Iowa City VA: Join a top-tier team of critical care professionals dedicated to serving those who served our nation.
Registered Nurse - Critical Care Float Job Overview
The Iowa City VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse for a Critical Care Float position. You will provide life-saving, high-intensity care to Veterans while collaborating with a premier interdisciplinary team. This role offers the opportunity to practice evidence-based medicine within a world-class health care system affiliated with the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Critical Care Float
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited professional nursing school.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Must be able to register for Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959).
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Critical Care Float
- Prior experience working in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or Emergency Room (ER).
- Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification.
- Current ACLS and BLS certifications.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓50 days of paid time off annually (26 vacation, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
- ✓Federal Retirement Pension and 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with 5% matching.
- ✓12 weeks of paid parental leave.
- ✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases.
- ✓Child care subsidies and employee wellness programs.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Critical Care Float Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Critical Care Float Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume, ensuring it includes all relevant nursing experience and education.
- Download the VA clinical resume template for your primary upload.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documentation (License, DD-214 if applicable, transcripts).
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid delays in processing.
- Be detailed: The VA does not make assumptions about your experience; clearly map your tasks to the nursing dimensions (Practice, Leadership, etc.).
- Ensure your license details are clearly visible and current.
- Contact the provided HR POC if you encounter technical issues before the deadline.
- Apply early to ensure your documents are received on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP. Interested candidates should apply within four months of their appointment to be reviewed for eligibility.
What is the schedule for the Critical Care Float position?
The position requires a 12-hour day/night rotation, including rotating weekends and holidays on a 72/80 schedule.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Non-citizens may only be appointed if there are no qualified U.S. citizens available to fill the position.
Is EDRP available for this position?
*A: Yes, qualified candidates may be eligible for up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.*
Do I need a specific state license?
*A: No, the VA accepts any current, active, and unrestricted nursing license from any U.S. State or territory.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to Veterans. The Iowa City VA Health Care System is a Tertiary Care Level I facility that serves over 50,000 Veterans across Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri. Affiliated with the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, the system is home to the Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), offering staff unique opportunities for professional development and exposure to cutting-edge clinical research.