Advance Your Nursing Career with the VA in Buffalo
The Western New York VA Health Care System is currently hiring a passionate and experienced Registered Nurse (RN) to join the Quality, Safety, and Value Team. This position, focused on Utilization Management (UM), is critical to maintaining the high standards of care our nation's Veterans expect and deserve. If you have a background in patient care coordination, clinical documentation, and quality improvement, this role offers a stable and rewarding federal career path.
Job Responsibilities
As a Utilization Management RN, your primary responsibilities include:
- Clinical Review: Conducting prospective, concurrent, and retrospective reviews of patient admissions and care plans.
- Data Analysis: Collecting and reporting on metrics to improve clinical outcomes and resource utilization.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside the acute care team to ensure patients receive the right level of care at the right time.
- Education: Providing clinical guidance to staff and external customers regarding documentation practices and care criteria.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- Hold a valid, full, and unrestricted nursing license.
- Possess a degree from an accredited nursing program.
- Demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Grade Determination Comparison
| Grade/Level | Education Requirements | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma or BSN | 1 year (for ADN/Diploma) |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN/Diploma, BSN, or MSN | 2 years (varies by degree) |
| Nurse II | BSN, MSN, or Doctoral | 1-2 years specialized experience |
| Nurse III | MSN or Doctoral | 2 years specialized experience |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position ranges from $70,779 to $130,281 per year, depending on your qualifications, education, and specific nursing grade determined during the hiring process. The VA provides regular salary increases and performance-based awards.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust "Total Rewards" package, including:
- Paid Time Off: 50 days total including annual leave, sick leave, and holidays.
- Retirement: Defined benefit pension plan and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
- Insurance: Extensive choices for health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
Application Tips
Ensure your application stands out by using the official VA Clinical Resume document. Be clear about your experience in the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
This role is an excellent opportunity for an experienced nurse to transition into a strategic role where you can influence patient outcomes on a systemic level. Apply today to serve our Veterans in a dynamic healthcare environment.
Why This Registered Nurse - Utilization Management Job Matters
Advance your nursing career and make a tangible impact on Veteran health outcomes as a Utilization Management Nurse in Buffalo.
Registered Nurse - Utilization Management Job Overview
The Western New York VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse for a Utilization Management role. This position is vital to our Quality, Safety, and Value Team, where you will conduct comprehensive clinical reviews, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and ensure efficient, evidence-based care delivery for those who have served our nation.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Utilization Management
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing (ACEN or CCNE)
- English language proficiency (written and spoken)
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Background and security investigation clearance
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Utilization Management
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Professional experience in Utilization Management
- Experience in quality improvement and clinical outcome management
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓50 days of paid time off per year (26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Federal pension plan
- ✓401K-style Thrift Savings Plan with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Long-term care insurance eligibility
- ✓Regular salary increases and performance-based awards
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Utilization Management Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Utilization Management Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the standard VA Clinical Resume document.
- Upload the clinical resume and any relevant supporting documents (transcripts, licenses, DD-214).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of July 29, 2026.
- Monitor your status via your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your nursing experience.
- Ensure your resume explicitly addresses the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Double-check that all required documents, including your RN license, are uploaded in the correct format.
- Use the provided VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your submission meets agency standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of a Utilization Management Nurse at the VA?
You will be responsible for reviewing patient admissions, continued stays, and prospective care to ensure resources are utilized efficiently while maintaining high clinical standards.
Are there opportunities for career growth?
Yes. The VA offers a clear path for professional development and advancement through defined nursing grades and levels based on your education and experience.
Is this a remote position?
No. This position is based in Buffalo, NY, though ad-hoc telework may be authorized per specific agency policy.
What is the work schedule?
This is a full-time, day-shift position (Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM).
Do I need a specific certification?
While not explicitly required for initial hire, experience in utilization management or quality improvement is highly preferred.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise of caring for those who have served in our military. The Western New York VA Health Care System is a major teaching facility, providing interdisciplinary care across inpatient and outpatient settings. Working here means joining a mission-driven organization that values compassion, integrity, and the well-being of our Veterans.