Advance Your Nursing Career in the PACU at the St. Louis VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Nurse seeking a role that combines high-acuity clinical care with a profound sense of purpose? The VA St. Louis Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Registered Nurse in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). This position offers a unique opportunity to provide life-changing care to the men and women who have served in our nation's military.
Job Responsibilities
As a PACU RN, you will be an integral member of the surgical team. Your core duties will include:
- Assessing, planning, and evaluating care throughout the peri-anesthesia continuum.
- Managing patients recovering from various anesthesia techniques and surgical interventions.
- Acting as a patient advocate in ethical, high-stress, and complex care situations.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure efficient, safe, and cost-effective care delivery.
- Mentoring junior staff and participating in evidence-based practice initiatives.
Requirements
To qualify for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required, with rare exceptions for non-citizens when qualified citizens are not available.
- Education: Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing program.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license in any U.S. state or territory.
- Physical Standards: You must be able to perform physical duties, including walking, standing for long periods, and lifting up to 45 pounds.
- Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Grade Determination Table
| Position Level | Required Education | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN / Diploma | Entry level |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN + 2 years OR BSN + 1 year | Proficiency in complex situations |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 years OR MSN + 1 year | Holistic leadership experience |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2 years | Advanced complex management |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary range of $74,487 to $160,782 per year, commensurate with your nursing experience, education, and current scope of practice.
Benefits
Joining the VA means investing in your future. Our total rewards package includes:
- Leave: 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Access to a federal pension and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching.
- Insurance: Extensive choices for health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
- Stability: The opportunity to transfer between federal facilities without losing tenure.
Application Tips
- Use the Required Template: Download the VA clinical resume document provided on the site; this is the standard for VA nursing applications.
- Be Detailed: Clearly describe your experience in the five nursing dimensions: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Double Check Documents: Ensure your transcripts and active nursing license are attached to your submission.
Serving those who served is more than just a job; it is a calling. If you are a skilled RN ready to advance your career in a dynamic surgical environment, we encourage you to apply to the VA St. Louis Health Care System today.
Why This Registered Nurse - Post Anesthesia Care Unit Job Matters
Advance your nursing career while honoring those who served. Join the VA St. Louis Health Care System as a PACU RN and make a life-changing difference for our nation's heroes.
Registered Nurse - Post Anesthesia Care Unit Job Overview
The VA St. Louis Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to join our Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). In this role, you will provide specialized care across the peri-anesthesia continuum, from pre-operative assessment to post-operative recovery. You will work in a fast-paced, collaborative clinical environment, utilizing your expertise to advocate for Veterans and ensure safe, high-quality outcomes in our surgical and diagnostic facilities.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Post Anesthesia Care Unit
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered if no qualified citizens are available).
- Full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse licensure in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Graduation from an accredited school of professional nursing (ACEN or CCNE).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Post Anesthesia Care Unit
- 2-3 years of experience working in a PACU or critical care setting.
- Strong clinical judgment and the ability to manage complex patient care in high-stress situations.
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities in a team-based medical environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan.
- ✓Federal 401k (TSP) with agency matching contributions up to 5%.
- ✓Generous paid time off (26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Career development and mentoring opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Post Anesthesia Care Unit Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Post Anesthesia Care Unit Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, licensure documentation, and any applicable eligibility documents (e.g., DD-214, transcripts).
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your daily clinical duties.
- Use the provided VA clinical resume template to ensure your application is processed correctly.
- Clearly highlight your PACU or critical care experience to align with preferred qualifications.
- Submit your documents well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Check your USAJOBS status frequently after submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work schedule for this position?
The schedule is Monday through Friday with on-call requirements.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed in Missouri?
Yes, you must hold a full, active, and unrestricted registration in any U.S. State or Territory.
Does this position offer telework?
No, this is a clinical, patient-facing position and is not eligible for telework.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*
How often is the position updated?
*A: The vacancy is open until July 29, 2026, or until filled.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to our Veterans. The VA St. Louis Health Care System serves as a vital hub for medicine, surgery, psychiatry, and rehabilitation. With two primary divisions and multiple community-based clinics, we provide a holistic care environment that prioritizes the unique needs of the Veteran population.