Advance Your Nursing Career: Wound Care Specialist with the VA in Loma Linda
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Registered Nurse (RN) specializing in Wound Care to join our team in Loma Linda, California. This role offers more than just a job; it is an opportunity to practice evidence-based nursing in a supportive, high-tech clinical environment.
About the Veterans Health Administration
The VA is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As a Nurse within the VHA, you are part of a nationwide network dedicated to delivering holistic, patient-centered care. Loma Linda provides a unique environment where clinical excellence meets a deep sense of purpose.
Job Responsibilities
As a Wound Care RN, you will be the lead resource for the management of acute and chronic wounds. Your daily duties will include:
- Patient Care: Executing the nursing process for patients with complex wounds and overseeing nursing assistants/licensed vocational nurses.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Identifying and instituting preventive treatment measures based on current clinical research.
- Education & Mentorship: Teaching peers, patients, and families about wound care best practices and pressure injury prevention.
- Quality Oversight: Evaluating clinical supplies, therapy equipment, and quality metrics to ensure the highest standards of safety.
Qualifications & Grading
To ensure our Veterans receive the best care, we require candidates who possess strong technical skills and a commitment to clinical excellence. Your specific grade level (Nurse I, II, or III) will be determined by your education and the depth of your specialized nursing experience.
| Position Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level 1 | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level 3 | ADN or BSN | 1-2 years specialized experience |
| Nurse II | BSN or MSN | 1-2 years equivalent experience |
| Nurse III | MSN or Doctorate | 2+ years specialized experience |
Benefits Overview
Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive "Total Rewards" package that is difficult to beat. Benefits include:
- Competitive Compensation: Regular salary increases and performance bonuses.
- Time Off: 50 days of paid time off per year including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Retirement Security: A traditional federal pension and a 401(k) style Thrift Savings Plan with 5% employer matching.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance options that you can carry into retirement.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the standard VA Clinical Resume template found on the VA Careers website.
- Be Specific: In your narrative, address the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Double-Check Requirements: Ensure your active license and transcripts are uploaded immediately to avoid delays.
If you are ready to combine your passion for wound care with a mission-driven career that honors those who served our country, this role in Loma Linda is the perfect next step. Apply today to help us provide safe, quality nursing care to our Veterans.
Why This Registered Nurse(Wound Care) Job Matters
Transform lives by providing expert, compassionate wound care to those who have served our nation.
Registered Nurse(Wound Care) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse specializing in Wound Care to join the Veterans Health Administration team in Loma Linda, California. In this vital role, you will manage complex patient care, perform evidence-based wound assessments, and coordinate treatment plans to improve outcomes for our Veterans. You will act as a clinical leader, mentor for nursing staff, and a key contributor to the facility's quality improvement initiatives.
Requirements for Registered Nurse(Wound Care)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE-accredited professional nursing program.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to perform heavy lifting up to 45 lbs and meet various physical mobility requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse(Wound Care)
- Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN), Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON), or Certified Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurse (CWOCN).
- At least 2 years of experience providing specialized acute and chronic wound care.
- Proven experience in developing and implementing evidence-based treatment plans.
- History of leading quality improvement or performance initiatives in clinical settings.
- Experience providing patient, family, and staff education regarding pressure injury prevention.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases and performance awards.
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 Federal holidays).
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
- ✓Long-term care insurance eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse(Wound Care) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse(Wound Care) Job
- Review the full position requirements and prepare your documentation.
- Download the required standard Clinical Resume template from the VA Careers website.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and any applicable supporting documents like licenses or DD-214.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of July 28, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to ensure your application is processed correctly.
- Be detailed and specific about your clinical experience, especially regarding your 5-dimensional nursing competencies.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; explicitly list how your experience meets the grading requirements.
- Check your application status regularly via your USAJOBS dashboard.
- Double-check that all required documents, including transcripts and licenses, are uploaded correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Loma Linda, California, and is not eligible for telework or remote status.
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary ranges from $103,350 to $186,937 per year, depending on education, experience, and the grade level determined at the time of hire.
Are there specific physical requirements for this job?
Yes, the role requires the ability to perform heavy lifting (45 lbs and over), extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and reaching, along with sharp mental and physical coordination.
Do I need a specific certification?
While not strictly required, certifications such as CWCN, CWON, or CWOCN are highly desired.
Is the influenza vaccine mandatory?
Yes, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment for all VHA health care personnel.