Launch Your Nursing Career with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a dedicated nurse looking to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who serve our country? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking talented Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) to provide essential care across our diverse military healthcare facilities. Whether you are looking for an opportunity in New Mexico or Texas, the DHA offers a dynamic environment where your clinical skills will be put to the highest use.
Job Responsibilities
As a Practical or Vocational Nurse, you will serve as a vital link in the patient care continuum. Your responsibilities include:
- Patient Intake: Gathering health information and identifying the nature of complaints.
- Clinical Support: Taking vital signs, performing behavioral health screenings, and assisting physicians with diagnostic procedures.
- Patient Care: Administering medications via various routes (oral, IV, subcutaneous, etc.) and monitoring patient progress.
- Care Coordination: Managing referrals and ensuring patient records are updated and accurate.
Requirements for Success
To be considered, you must meet strict federal qualifications. Use this table to understand the core requirements:
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Licensure | Must hold an active state/territory LPN/LVN license |
| Experience | At least 1 year of clinical nursing experience |
| Resume Limit | Maximum 2 pages |
| Testing | Drug test required for selected candidates |
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for these positions ranges from $40,736 to $62,430 per year, depending on locality and specific placement. Beyond the base salary, employees in permanent roles are eligible for a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and significant leave accrual. For top-tier candidates, the agency may also offer recruitment incentives and student loan repayment programs.
How to Apply
Applying for federal employment requires precision. Ensure your resume highlights your experience with medication administration and patient triage. You must submit your nursing license and, if applicable, your performance appraisals. Follow the instructions on the USAJOBS portal to complete your profile and upload your documents before the application deadline.
This position is an excellent opportunity for nurses seeking stability, professional growth, and the honor of serving the military community. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application early to take advantage of this continuous hiring process.
Why This Practical Nurse/Vocational Nurse Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the health and readiness of our military community as a Practical or Vocational Nurse with the Defense Health Agency.
Practical Nurse/Vocational Nurse Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking dedicated Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and Vocational Nurses (LVN) to join our integrated healthcare system. In this role, you will provide critical patient care, coordinate services, and support our mission to deliver high-quality medical, dental, and pharmacy programs to uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. This is an open continuous, direct-hire announcement with multiple vacancies across various locations.
Requirements for Practical Nurse/Vocational Nurse
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a current, active license as a practical or vocational nurse in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Must have at least one year of specialized nursing experience performing duties like taking vital signs, administering medications, and maintaining medical records.
- Must submit a copy of your license or certification with the application.
- Resume must be two pages or less to be considered.
- Must successfully pass a drug test.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain required security and background clearances.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse/Vocational Nurse
- Experience in specialized areas such as Psychiatric, Operating Room, Obstetric/Gynecologic, or Pediatric nursing.
- Demonstrated ability to handle administrative and clinical documentation in a fast-paced environment.
- Prior experience working within a federal or military healthcare setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with locality pay
- ✓Recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates
- ✓Student loan repayment opportunities
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance options (for permanent positions)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave (for permanent positions)
- ✓Structured retirement programs
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse/Vocational Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse/Vocational Nurse Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific duties and requirements listed in the job announcement.
- Prepare your resume (must be two pages or less) including specific details of your relevant work experience.
- Complete the online questionnaire as prompted.
- Upload required documentation, including your nursing license and performance appraisals.
- Submit your complete application package by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week and specific dates (month/year) for all positions.
- Avoid using acronyms or technical jargon that may be misunderstood by recruiters.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, or it will be excluded.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan before the deadline.
- Double-check that you have re-selected your resume and license from your profile after starting the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the required experience?
No. For this grade level, candidates must meet the qualification requirements through experience alone; education cannot be substituted for the required year of professional nursing experience.
What if I am not currently licensed but have completed my training?
You may be appointed pending licensure, but you must provide proof of your license application and state jurisdiction. Continued employment is contingent upon obtaining the license within the probationary period.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is not eligible for telework or remote status as it requires direct, in-person patient care.
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated, world-class healthcare system responsible for delivering medical, dental, and pharmacy services to over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. As a strategic partner within the Department of Defense, we prioritize medical readiness and clinical excellence. Joining our team means becoming part of an inspired group of professionals committed to delivering care anytime, anywhere.