Advance Your Nursing Career as a Professional Development Practitioner at the VA
Are you a seasoned nurse with a passion for teaching? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for an expert Nurse (Professional Development Practitioner) to join the New Jersey VA Healthcare System. This position is perfect for leaders who are ready to transition from direct patient care to shaping the educational landscape of our healthcare facilities.
Job Responsibilities
The Nursing Professional Development Practitioner (NPDP) serves as the backbone of our clinical training programs. Key duties include:
- Curriculum Design: Developing educational materials that incorporate simulation, virtual reality, and case studies.
- Mentorship: Coaching new staff and nurse residents to help them build confidence and clinical competence.
- Compliance: Monitoring and tracking BLS and ALS certification across the facility.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Reviewing medical literature to propose updates to documentation and patient care protocols.
- Emergency Readiness: Organizing and evaluating mock codes to ensure team preparedness.
Comparison: Nurse Grades at the VA
| Level | Education Requirement | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN/Diploma | Fundamental knowledge & technical skills |
| Nurse I, Level III | BSN + 1yr Exp | Self-directed complex care |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2yr Exp | Leadership & holistic care |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2yr Exp | Advanced leadership & creative management |
Requirements
To qualify, candidates must possess a valid, unrestricted nursing license and hold a degree from an accredited nursing program. You must also demonstrate proficiency in English. Because this is a high-impact clinical role, we look for individuals who can translate data and research into actionable training programs.
Salary and Benefits
Competitive pay is part of the VA commitment to nursing professionals. The annual salary for this role ranges from $96,242 to $161,650, depending on your experience and qualifications. In addition, you will enjoy:
- Generous Leave: 50 days of combined vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Financial Security: Federal pension and 401K-style savings plans.
- Healthcare: Top-tier federal insurance programs.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA provides a specific resume document; using it is highly recommended to ensure your application passes initial screenings.
- Be Detailed: Clearly outline your experience in the five core VA nursing dimensions.
- Check Documentation: Ensure all licenses and transcripts are up to date before uploading.
If you want a career where your clinical knowledge directly improves the care received by Veterans, this position is for you. Submit your application today to join a team that prioritizes growth and high-quality nursing practice.
Why This Nurse (Professional Development Practitioner) Job Matters
Empower the next generation of nursing excellence and improve patient outcomes as a Nursing Professional Development Practitioner with the VA.
Nurse (Professional Development Practitioner) Job Overview
The New Jersey VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Nurse (Professional Development Practitioner) to lead clinical education and staff training initiatives. This role is pivotal in shaping the proficiency of our nursing teams, ensuring that evidence-based practices are integrated across all units. As a catalyst for professional growth, you will design curricula, mentor staff, and oversee the implementation of clinical competencies. This is an ideal role for an experienced nursing leader passionate about education, simulation training, and fostering an environment of continuous improvement to serve our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Nurse (Professional Development Practitioner)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply under specific policies).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Graduation from an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Subject to background investigation and drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Preferred Qualifications for Nurse (Professional Development Practitioner)
- 5 to 10 years of current acute care hospital experience, preferably in an ICU/Critical Care setting.
- Current Nursing Professional Development Practitioner (NPDP) certification or clinical educator experience.
- Active BLS and ACLS Instructor status.
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree.
- Current, valid driver’s license.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓50 days of total leave: 26 days annual, 13 days sick, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs.
- ✓Structured, regular salary increases.
- ✓Access to ongoing professional training and career advancement.
💡 How to Apply Nurse (Professional Development Practitioner) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nurse (Professional Development Practitioner) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume document template provided by the VA.
- Prepare your full resume, cover letter, and copies of your nursing license.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of August 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Be explicit in your resume about your experience in the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- If you are a federal employee, submit your most recent SF-50 to document your time-in-grade.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and clearly labeled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this role?
The focus is on professional development, instructional design, and ensuring nursing staff maintain high-level competencies through evidence-based practice and clinical training.
Can I apply if I have an Associate Degree in Nursing?
Yes, however, your grade assignment and salary will be determined by your specific educational level and years of relevant professional experience.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site, in-person position located in East Orange, New Jersey.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We serve those who have served our country. By joining the VHA, you are not just taking a job; you are becoming part of a mission-driven organization that values compassion, clinical excellence, and the continued professional development of its staff.