Nursing Assistant Opportunities at the West Palm Beach VA

Are you a compassionate healthcare professional looking for a career that offers more than just a paycheck? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for a dedicated Nursing Assistant to join our team at the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System. This role is essential to our inpatient Mental Health unit, where we honor the service of our Veterans by providing world-class, holistic care.

Job Responsibilities

As a Nursing Assistant, your primary objective is to provide safe, direct, and therapeutic care. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Patient Care: Assisting with hygiene, mobility, feeding, and positioning.
Clinical Support: Monitoring vital signs, collecting specimens, and documenting patient data.
Safety and Intervention: Utilizing behavioral de-escalation techniques, providing 1:1 supervision for high-risk patients, and maintaining a clean, safe environment.
Team Collaboration: Working closely with RNs and other interdisciplinary staff to implement care plans and ensure a seamless patient experience.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several fundamental federal requirements:

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be proficient in both spoken and written English.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
Must participate in the mandatory annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Comparison of Grade Levels

Grade	Experience Requirement	Key Focus
GS-3	Entry Level	Basic care, closely supervised.
GS-4	1 Year Specialized	Intermediate skills, developmental focus.
GS-5	Full Performance	Advanced care, peer mentorship role.

Salary Overview

The salary for this position ranges from $37,148 to $60,652 per year, depending on the qualifications, experience, and the specific grade level determined during the hiring process.

Benefits

Working for the VA provides access to a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Generous paid annual and sick leave.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Opportunities for specialized training and professional growth.

Application Tips

Use the Required Template: Ensure you use the specific clinical resume document provided by the VA to ensure your application is processed correctly.
Be Detailed: Clearly define your clinical experience, including volunteer work, as it relates to patient care.
Follow Deadlines: All application materials must be submitted by the closing date of 10/29/2026.

Serving our Veterans is a unique and deeply rewarding calling. If you are ready to apply your skills in a setting that values integrity, compassion, and innovation, we encourage you to review the application requirements and submit your package today. Your career can make a real difference in the lives of those who have given so much for our nation.

Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the compassionate team at the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System.

Nursing Assistant Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Nursing Assistant to join the inpatient Mental Health unit at the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System. In this vital role, you will provide direct, therapeutic care to Veterans, assisting them in their recovery and ensuring their well-being. You will work alongside a collaborative, interdisciplinary team to create a safe and healing environment for those who have served our country. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a healthcare mission focused on Whole Health and patient-centered service.

Requirements for Nursing Assistant

U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be considered only if no qualified citizens are available).
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
Ability to pass a drug screening test.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be able to maintain required vaccinations, including annual seasonal influenza.
Ability to walk, stand, bend, lift, and move patients/equipment safely.

Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant

Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Experience providing direct patient care in a mental health or psychiatric setting.
Demonstrated ability to assist with daily living activities and monitor behavioral changes.
Experience supporting therapeutic interventions for patients with acute or chronic psychiatric conditions.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary packages.
✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave.
✓Federal retirement benefits and savings plans.
✓Ongoing professional development and clinical training.
✓Opportunities for career advancement within the VA system.

💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
Prepare your supporting documents, including transcripts and professional certifications.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package via the official portal before the deadline.
Monitor your email for status updates and notifications.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and thorough when describing your experience in your resume; do not assume the hiring team knows your past responsibilities.
Upload the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA to the designated document field.
Double-check that all required documents (transcripts, certifications, SF-50s) are uploaded correctly before submitting.
Ensure your contact information is up to date to receive timely interview requests.
Familiarize yourself with the 'Whole Health' mission of the VA, as it reflects the agency's core values.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical work schedule for this position?

The schedule involves various, rotating shifts, which may include weekends and holidays to ensure continuous patient care.

Is telework available for this role?

No, this is an in-person, patient-care position that is not eligible for telework.

What happens after I submit my application?

You will receive a confirmation email. Once the vacancy closes, the HR team will review your application for eligibility. If referred, you may be contacted for an interview.

Is this position eligible for relocation incentives?

*A: No, relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.*

Do I need a specific certification?

*A: While a CNA certification is preferred, the base requirements focus on relevant healthcare experience and training.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our military, along with their families and survivors. At the West Palm Beach VA, we pride ourselves on being an innovative care center that combines cutting-edge research with personalized, patient-centered service.