Elevate Your Nursing Career at the Iowa City VA Health Care System
Are you a dedicated Operating Room nurse looking for a role that combines clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Iowa City VA Health Care System is currently seeking a passionate Registered Nurse (RN) to join our perioperative team. This position offers not just a competitive salary, but the opportunity to serve those who have served our country in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As an Operating Room RN, you will manage the perioperative experience for Veterans undergoing surgical procedures. Key responsibilities include:
- Clinical Care: Planning, directing, and coordinating care for patients during surgical and invasive procedures.
- Versatility: Functioning effectively in both scrub and circulating roles.
- Safety: Maintaining strict sterile field integrity and conducting rigorous counting procedures.
- Documentation: Ensuring timely and accurate entries in the electronic health record system.
- On-Call Support: Participating in rotating on-call shifts to ensure 24/7 coverage for emergency procedures.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards, including:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: Graduation from an accredited professional nursing program.
- Licensure: A full, active, and unrestricted license to practice as an RN.
- Proficiency: Demonstrated competency in written and spoken English.
- Compliance: Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Salary and Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a financial foundation and work-life balance that is hard to match in the private sector.
| Benefit Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $73,696 - $122,961 per year |
| Paid Time Off | 26 days annual leave + 13 days sick leave |
| Federal Holidays | 11 Paid Holidays |
| Insurance | Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Long-term Care |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) |
Application Tips
- Use the Required Template: Download the specific clinical resume template from the VA careers site to ensure your application passes initial screenings.
- Quantify Your Experience: Be specific about your OR experience and how it aligns with the VA’s core nursing dimensions (Practice, Leadership, Research, etc.).
- Double-Check Documentation: Ensure all licenses and transcripts are clearly legible and uploaded correctly.
Joining the Iowa City VA Health Care System means joining a team dedicated to compassion and excellence. If you are ready to apply your OR nursing skills to honor America’s Veterans, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Registered Nurse - Operating Room Job Matters
Join a mission-driven team in Iowa City where your expertise in the operating room directly improves the lives of our nation's Veterans.
Registered Nurse - Operating Room Job Overview
The Iowa City VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse for our Operating Room. In this role, you will provide high-quality surgical nursing care, acting as a critical member of a perioperative team that prioritizes patient safety, clinical excellence, and a whole-health approach to healing. You will work within a facility recognized for its commitment to comprehensive care and its partnership with the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Operating Room
- U.S. Citizenship
- Full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. state, territory, or D.C.
- Graduate of a school of professional nursing accredited by ACEN or CCNE
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Subject to a background security investigation
- Drug testing as a condition of employment
- Seasonal influenza vaccination compliance
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Operating Room
- Proven clinical experience within an Operating Room or procedural care setting
- Demonstrated ability to perform both scrub and circulating nursing roles
- Experience managing complex patient populations in surgical environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with performance-based awards
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance
- ✓Generous leave: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including a pension and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan
- ✓Support for professional development and continuous learning
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Operating Room Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Operating Room Job
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (including license and transcripts)
- Download the clinical resume template provided by the VA
- Create or log into your USAJOBS profile
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Submit your full application package before the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA clinical resume template to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
- Be detailed in your work history; the hiring committee will not make assumptions about your experience level.
- Highlight your experience across the five dimensions of nursing: practice, patient-driven care, leadership, professional development, and evidence-based research.
- Submit your application well before the midnight ET deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 0700-1530, with a required on-call rotation for evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Are there opportunities for career advancement?
Yes, as a Nurse at the VA, your progression through grade levels is based on your education, clinical practice, and leadership experience.
What if I am a recent nursing graduate?
The VA offers a Graduate Nurse Technician (GNT) path for those who meet education requirements but are currently working toward their license.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position at the Iowa City VA facility.
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
No, the position is open to the public, though veterans' preference may apply if you qualify.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to our nation's Veterans. The Iowa City VA Health Care System is a premier facility that serves over 50,000 Veterans across Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri. Affiliated with the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, our facility is at the forefront of medical research and innovation, including the Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE).