Elevate Your Nursing Career: MDS Coordinator at the Saint Cloud VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Nurse seeking a role that blends high-level clinical assessment with meaningful patient advocacy? The Saint Cloud VA Health Care System is currently hiring a Community Living Center (CLC) Minimum Data Set (MDS) Registered Nurse. This position is a cornerstone of our efforts to provide compassionate, holistic care for those who have served our country. If you are detail-oriented, collaborative, and passionate about quality improvement, we invite you to help us uphold President Lincoln’s promise to our Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
The MDS Nurse role is dynamic and essential to regulatory success. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Coordinating the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) process.
- Facilitating interdisciplinary care meetings to ensure Veterans’ needs are addressed.
- Analyzing quality management data to pinpoint documentation discrepancies.
- Educating nursing staff on assessment accuracy and software updates.
- Leading survey readiness initiatives to ensure peak performance.
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Education: A degree from an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program.
- Licensure: An active, unrestricted RN license from any U.S. state or territory.
- Competency: Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Clearance: Must pass a pre-employment physical and background check.
Salary and Grade Comparison
Your grade and salary are determined by your education and the depth of your nursing experience.
| Position Level | Education Requirement | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN / Diploma | Fundamental Care |
| Nurse I, Level III | BSN + 1yr Exp | Deliberate Planning |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2yrs Exp | Leadership & Strategy |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2yrs Exp | Complex Case Management |
Benefits
Working for the Department of Veterans Affairs provides an unparalleled total rewards package. Enjoy:
- Generous Leave: 50 days of paid time off per year.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching.
- Insurance: High-quality health, vision, and dental plans.
- Stability: Competitive pay scales that recognize your tenure and expertise.
- Support: Flexible spending accounts, child care subsidies, and wellness programs.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA requires a specific clinical resume document. Download it via the VA Careers link to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
- Quantify Your Experience: Be specific about your involvement in quality improvement, chart audits, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Address the Five Dimensions: Frame your professional history around the VA's five dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead, innovate, and serve. By combining your clinical expertise with data-driven care planning, you will directly influence the quality of life for our nation's Veterans. If you are ready to bring your talents to the Saint Cloud VA, apply today and start your journey toward a rewarding federal career.
Why This Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Minimum Data Set Job Matters
Advance your nursing career by shaping resident-centered care for those who served—join the Saint Cloud VA as a Community Living Center MDS Nurse.
Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Minimum Data Set Job Overview
The Saint Cloud VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to serve within our Community Living Center (CLC). In this critical role, you will be the bridge between clinical care and data integrity, managing the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment process to ensure our Veterans receive the high-quality, personalized care they deserve. You will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop care plans, analyze quality metrics, and promote regulatory excellence.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Minimum Data Set
- U.S. Citizenship (unless no qualified citizens are available).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited school of professional nursing.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. State or territory.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Ability to complete background/security investigation requirements.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Drug testing clearance for designated positions.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Minimum Data Set
- Previous professional experience with Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment processes.
- Experience in long-term care or Community Living Center environments.
- Strong analytical skills regarding quality management and documentation coding.
- Proven ability to lead interdisciplinary clinical teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive salary with locality-based increases.
- âś“50 days of paid time off (26 days annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays).
- âś“Federal pension plan and 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with matching.
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- âś“Paid parental leave.
- âś“Child care subsidies and employee assistance programs.
- âś“Professional growth and continuing education opportunities.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Minimum Data Set Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Minimum Data Set Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the required Clinical Resume Template from the VA Careers website.
- Upload the Clinical Resume to the 'Resume' field and your full CV to the 'Other' field.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via USA Staffing.
- Attach all required documents, such as DD-214 or transcripts, if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package before the August 4, 2026, deadline.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Do not skip the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA.
- Be highly detailed and specific in your work history; the VA cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Highlight your clinical dimensions (Practice, Leadership, Veteran-Driven Care) clearly in your documentation.
- If you are a Veteran, ensure you upload your DD-214 to receive proper preference consideration.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I don't have experience with the Minimum Data Set?
While experience with the MDS is preferred, the VA values your core nursing skills and your ability to lead interdisciplinary teams. Candidates with strong clinical backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
What is the work schedule for this position?
This role operates on a standard Monday through Friday schedule, from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position at the Saint Cloud VA facility and is not eligible for telework.
What is the application deadline?
The closing date is August 4, 2026.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, this position does not offer relocation or recruitment incentives.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The St. Cloud VA Health Care System has been a pillar of the community since 1924. Serving over 38,000 Veterans across central Minnesota, we provide a welcoming, Whole Health environment. We operate not just as a hospital, but as a community of care, including our medical center and three Community Based Outpatient Clinics. Joining our team means becoming part of an organization that values professional growth, evidence-based research, and the well-being of both our staff and the Veterans we serve.