Advance Your Nursing Career at the Black Hills VA Health Care System
Are you a compassionate Registered Nurse looking to transition into an outpatient setting where your work directly honors those who have served our country? The Black Hills VA Health Care System in Fort Meade, South Dakota, is currently accepting applications for an Outpatient Staff Registered Nurse. This is a unique opportunity to join a mission-driven organization that prioritizes both patient health and employee well-being.
Job Responsibilities
As an Outpatient Staff Nurse, you will serve as a primary advocate and clinical guide for Veterans. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluating the clinical and personal health needs of Veterans to develop tailored care plans.
- Collaborative Coordination: Partnering with an interdisciplinary team to ensure smooth transitions between primary and specialty care services.
- Patient Education: Coaching Veterans and their families on wellness, chronic disease management, and medication adherence.
- Clinical Procedure: Administering treatments and medications according to strict clinical guidelines.
- Quality Improvement: Contributing to unit-level initiatives that enhance patient safety and resource efficiency.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- A degree from an accredited professional nursing program.
- A current, full, and unrestricted nursing license.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical exam.
Salary and Grade Overview
Compensation is determined based on your clinical education, specialized experience, and performance. The salary range for this position is:
| Position Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse - Staff | $65,710 - $126,069 |
Benefits
The VA provides a total rewards package that is among the best in the healthcare industry. Key benefits include:
- Generous Leave: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year, plus 11 Federal holidays.
- Retirement: A robust federal pension system plus a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
- Insurance: A wide selection of health, dental, and vision plans that can be carried into retirement.
- Education: Extensive continuing education opportunities and support for professional development.
Application Tips
- Use the Required Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume document. Use this to ensure your application meets technical requirements.
- Be Specific: Detail how your past work maps to the five core dimensions of VA nursing (Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Monitor Deadlines: The application closes on August 6, 2026. Do not wait until the last minute.
Joining the VA Black Hills Health Care System is more than just a clinical appointment; it is a commitment to the men and women who protected our freedom. With competitive pay, unmatched benefits, and a supportive environment, this role offers the stability and fulfillment you deserve in your nursing career.
Why This Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff Job Matters
Advance your nursing career in the beautiful Black Hills—where competitive federal benefits meet a mission-driven life serving those who served our nation.
Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff Job Overview
The Black Hills VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Outpatient Staff Registered Nurse to join our team in Fort Meade, South Dakota. This role is perfect for a clinician who thrives in a collaborative environment and is passionate about providing comprehensive, Veteran-centered outpatient care. You will serve as a key member of an interdisciplinary team, managing care plans, educating patients, and supporting the long-term health and independence of our nation's heroes.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Graduate of an accredited professional nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse licensure in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Ability to pass a drug screening and background security investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Mandatory participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff
- Prior experience in primary care settings.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
- Demonstrated proficiency in the five core dimensions of VA nursing: Practice, Veteran-driven care, Leadership, Professional development, and Evidence-based practice.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular locality pay increases.
- ✓50 days of total paid time off (26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 Federal holidays).
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching up to 5%.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
- ✓Paid parental leave.
- ✓Professional development and continuing education support.
- ✓Wellness, physical fitness, and child care subsidy programs.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff Job
- Prepare your resume using the VA Clinical Resume template provided on the VA Careers website.
- Create or log into your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, DD-214 (if applicable), and any other supporting documentation.
- Submit your complete application package before the August 6, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be precise and detailed in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your responses to the online questionnaire align clearly with your provided resume and credentials.
- If you are a Veteran, ensure your DD-214 is uploaded to claim preference points.
- Double-check that your identification documents meet current Real ID standards.
- Reach out to the agency contact early if you anticipate any issues with the digital application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am a recent nursing graduate?
Yes. Depending on your education, you may be eligible for entry-level positions or Graduate Nurse Technician status while you finalize your licensure.
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work schedule for this outpatient role?
This position operates on a standard Monday through Friday schedule, from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site, in-person clinical position at the Fort Meade facility.
Can I use a foreign nursing degree?
Foreign nursing degrees require formal equivalency validation from an accepted organization, such as the International Consultants of Delaware.
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 borne the battle. The VA Black Hills Health Care System is a vital part of this mission, serving Veterans across South Dakota, Nebraska, and Wyoming. With a culture focused on 'Whole Health,' the agency emphasizes individualized care plans that empower Veterans to take charge of their own health and well-being.
Living and working in the Black Hills offers more than just a job; it offers a lifestyle. Residents enjoy access to incredible outdoor activities, from skiing in the winter to hiking and motorcycling in the summer, all within a state that features no personal income tax.