Advance Your Nursing Career at VA Puget Sound
Are you a dedicated critical care professional looking for an environment that honors your expertise and your commitment to patients? The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is currently seeking experienced Registered Nurses to join our high-performing Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU).
Job Responsibilities
As a MICU RN, you will be on the front lines of patient care, managing acutely ill patients with cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurological complexities. Core responsibilities include:
- Providing high-intensity care utilizing advanced invasive and non-invasive monitoring.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes.
- Applying evidence-based research to daily nursing practice.
- Engaging families in patient-centered care plans.
Comparison Table: Nursing Grade Levels
| Level | Education Requirement | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | Fundamental care development |
| Nurse I, Level III | BSN/ADN + 1-2 years exp | Complex goal setting |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 years/MSN + 1 year | Holistic care leadership |
| Nurse III | MSN/PhD + exp | Management of complex care |
Requirements & Qualifications
You must hold a valid, unrestricted nursing license and meet basic English proficiency standards. We look for nurses who possess specific experience with mechanical ventilation, IABP, and vasoactive infusions. National CCRN certification is highly regarded.
Salary and Benefits
VA nursing offers a robust total rewards package.
- Competitive Pay: $87,285 - $161,201 per year.
- Debt Relief: Potential for up to $200,000 via the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Time Off: Earn 50 days of leave annually, including vacation, sick time, and federal holidays.
Application Tips
Use the official VA Clinical Resume template. Be precise in your description of previous high-acuity experience, as we rely on your documentation to determine your starting grade and salary.
Working for the VA is more than just a job; it is a mission. If you are ready to bring your critical care skills to a team that truly cares, we encourage you to apply through the official federal portal today.
Why This Registered Nurse - Critical Care (Medical Intensive Care Unit) Job Matters
Join the VA Puget Sound Health Care System and provide world-class, high-acuity critical care to those who have served our nation.
Registered Nurse - Critical Care (Medical Intensive Care Unit) Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking dedicated Registered Nurses for our Medical Intensive Care Unit/Cardiac Care Unit. This is a vital role within one of the most complex VA healthcare networks in the nation, offering the opportunity to provide life-saving care to Veterans in a high-acuity, multidisciplinary environment.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Critical Care (Medical Intensive Care Unit)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be considered only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Hold a full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license from a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited professional nursing program.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical exam and drug screening.
- Complete a mandatory background and security investigation.
- Provide proof of Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Adherence to annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Critical Care (Medical Intensive Care Unit)
- 1-2 years of specialized critical care nursing experience.
- Proficiency with IABP, Impella, mechanical ventilation, TAVR, PCI, and vasoactive infusions.
- Possession of a National Certification as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN).
- Previous experience in ICU or high-acuity medical/surgical settings.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and long-term care insurance.
- ✓Regular salary increases and performance-based awards.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Critical Care (Medical Intensive Care Unit) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Critical Care (Medical Intensive Care Unit) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the required online occupational questionnaire.
- Download and utilize the standard Clinical Resume document provided by the VA.
- Upload your official resume/CV, license, and any relevant transcripts or veterans' preference documentation.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough when describing your nursing experience in relation to the five dimensions of practice.
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your technical skills in ICU settings.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
- If claiming veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 is current and legible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I apply if I am a recent nursing graduate?
This position requires specialized critical care experience; therefore, new graduates are generally not considered for these specific roles.
Does the VA support student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for eligible candidates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our military. The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is a Level 1a interdisciplinary teaching facility. As one of the most complex healthcare systems in the country, we provide comprehensive, compassionate care to Veterans, ranging from specialized surgical intervention to advanced critical care and rehabilitation.