Launch Your Healthcare Career at the VA Maine Healthcare System
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking for a position that combines clinical skill with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking compassionate Nursing Assistants to join our Float Pool at the VA Maine Healthcare System. This per-diem opportunity offers you the chance to work in a dynamic environment, providing high-quality care to the men and women who have served our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you will function as a vital member of the nursing care team. Your responsibilities will include:
- Providing direct patient care, including assistance with personal hygiene, nutrition, and activities of daily living (ADL).
- Assisting with clinical procedures such as vital sign collection, blood glucose monitoring, and EKG preparation.
- Maintaining safe patient environments through close monitoring and use of lift equipment.
- Supporting the admission, transfer, and discharge processes.
- Serving as a safety monitor for patients requiring 1:1 supervision.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Complete a background check and drug screening.
- Participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Grade Comparison
This position is open to grades GS-03 through GS-05, offering a competitive salary range.
| Grade Level | Scope of Responsibility | Required Experience |
|---|---|---|
| GS-03 | Entry-level, closely supervised | Basic Requirements |
| GS-04 | Technical care, intermediate skills | 1 Year of specialized experience |
| GS-05 | Full performance, preceptor duties | 1 Year of experience at GS-4 level |
Benefits
Working with the VA comes with a robust set of benefits, including:
- Regular salary increases and competitive pay.
- Access to federal retirement benefits.
- Opportunities for professional development.
- A collaborative, team-based work environment.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of selection, be sure to use the official VA Clinical Resume template. Detail your experience thoroughly—don't rely on generic descriptions. Highlight your ability to work within a team and your capacity to handle emergent patient situations.
If you are ready to use your clinical skills to support those who have defended our country, we encourage you to apply. This is a unique opportunity to join an elite healthcare network in Maine while advancing your nursing career.
Why This Nursing Assistant-Float Pool (Per Diem) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country as a Nursing Assistant with the VA Maine Healthcare System.
Nursing Assistant-Float Pool (Per Diem) Job Overview
The VA Maine Healthcare System is seeking dedicated Nursing Assistants to join our Float Pool on a per-diem basis. This role is essential to our nursing care team, providing compassionate assistance to Veterans in acute, chronic, and community living settings. You will work under the direction of licensed nursing staff to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. This is an open continuous announcement, allowing for rolling application reviews to meet our healthcare needs.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant-Float Pool (Per Diem)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be considered only if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a background and security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Willingness to serve a 1- or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant-Float Pool (Per Diem)
- One year of progressively responsible experience as a Nursing Assistant or in a related medical field.
- Completion of specialized training courses relevant to nursing care.
- Demonstrated ability to perform clinical procedures such as blood glucose monitoring, vital sign collection, and EKG performance.
- Proven capability in providing patient-centered care and assisting with activities of daily living.
- Strong communication skills for effective interaction with patients, families, and interdisciplinary team members.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive salary structure
- âś“Regular salary increases
- âś“Generous paid time off
- âś“Flexible scheduling options
- âś“Access to a comprehensive federal healthcare system
- âś“Professional development and growth opportunities within the VA
đź’ˇ How to Apply Nursing Assistant-Float Pool (Per Diem) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant-Float Pool (Per Diem) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and prepare your resume.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and any applicable supporting documents (e.g., SF-50, licenses).
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions about your experience.
- Include both paid and relevant volunteer experience in your application.
- Ensure all documentation, including transcripts and licenses, is uploaded correctly.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the initial application review.
- Apply early; while the job is open until September 2026, cut-off dates occur regularly for referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nature of the per-diem role?
These positions are intermittent, meaning your schedule may vary based on facility needs, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
The preference is for U.S. citizens. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, incumbents may be required to travel to different VA campuses and Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) within the system.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA is the nation's largest integrated healthcare system, committed to providing world-class care to our Veterans. Our "I CARE" values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide everything we do. By joining the VA Maine team, you become part of a mission-driven organization that values your professional growth and work-life balance.