Launch Your Career as a Nursing Assistant with the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
Are you looking for a fulfilling career that combines high-level clinical practice with the honor of serving those who have served our nation? The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System in Tacoma, Washington, is currently seeking a motivated Nursing Assistant to join their Community Living Center team. This is an exceptional opportunity to work within one of the most complex and respected healthcare networks in the United States.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you will act as a core member of the nursing care team. Your primary focus will be providing compassionate, whole-person care to geriatric Veterans. Responsibilities include:
- Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
- Performing clinical procedures such as glucose monitoring, tracheostomy care, and specimen collection.
- Monitoring patient conditions for subtle changes and escalating findings to senior nursing staff.
- Maintaining detailed clinical documentation.
- Acting as a preceptor for new team members.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several federal criteria, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- English language proficiency.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Grade Level Comparison
| Level | Experience/Education Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Basic requirements met; entry level. |
| GS-4 | 1 year of specialized experience or 2 years of post-high school education. |
| GS-5 | 1 year of experience equivalent to GS-4 or a Bachelor's degree. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $42,127 to $68,781 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a robust federal benefits package:
- Comprehensive health and insurance options.
- A generous leave program with up to 50 days of paid time off.
- A structured retirement plan with 401K-style matching.
- Child care subsidies for qualifying families.
Working for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who protected our freedom. If you have the clinical skills, the dedication, and the heart to serve, we encourage you to apply for this position in Tacoma today.
Why This Nursing Assistant-Community Living Center Job Matters
Join the VA Puget Sound team and provide compassionate, life-changing care to the Veterans who have given so much for our nation.
Nursing Assistant-Community Living Center Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Nursing Assistant for the Community Living Center in Tacoma, Washington. In this role, you will provide essential care to geriatric Veterans, supporting their treatment plans, recovery, and overall quality of life. This position is vital to maintaining a safe, respectful, and high-quality environment for those who have served our country.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant-Community Living Center
- United States Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Mandatory participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation
- Compliance with drug screening requirements
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant-Community Living Center
- Experience in a Skilled Nursing Facility or Long Term Care environment
- Background in Dementia or Memory Care
- Proficiency in performing clinical duties such as glucose monitoring, tracheostomy care, and specimen collection
- Ability to serve as a preceptor or mentor to new staff members
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Generous paid time off (37-50 days of combined annual and sick leave)
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Federal pension and 401K-style Thrift Savings Plan with 5% matching
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant-Community Living Center Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant-Community Living Center Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review all required documents, including your resume and SF-50 if applicable.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload your clinical resume and supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, licenses).
- Submit your final application package before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Use the VA's clinical resume template to streamline the application process.
- Submit all required documents, including SF-50s for current or former federal employees, to avoid disqualification.
- Be as detailed as possible in the 'Duties' section of your resume to showcase your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the grade level for this position?
This position is open at the GS-3 to GS-5 levels, with a full performance level of GS-5.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Tacoma, Washington.
Are there physical requirements for this job?
There are no specific physical requirements beyond standard occupational health expectations for this role.
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 served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System is a Level 1a teaching hospital providing a full spectrum of services, from emergency care to specialized rehabilitation and long-term support.