Advance Your Nursing Career: Primary Care Mental Health Integration at VA Puget Sound
Are you a dedicated nurse looking to make a profound difference in the lives of those who served? The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is currently hiring a Registered Nurse for the Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) team. This role offers the opportunity to practice high-level clinical skills within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment in Auburn, Washington.
Job Responsibilities
As a PCMHI Nurse, you will bridge the gap between mental health and primary care. Your daily duties will include:
- Providing evidence-based, protocol-driven interventions for patients experiencing depression or anxiety.
- Collaborating with Patient Aligned Care Teams (PACT) to improve patient outcomes.
- Screening patients for suicide risk and executing safety protocols.
- Providing behavioral health coaching and motivational interviewing.
- Managing caseloads and monitoring treatment progress via standardized tools.
Comparison: Nurse Grade Requirements
| Grade | Education Requirements | Experience Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma + 1yr or BSN | 1 Year Specialized |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN/Diploma + 2yrs or BSN + 1yr or MSN | 1-2 Years Specialized |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2yrs or MSN + 1yr | 2 Years Specialized |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2yrs or Doctoral | 2+ Years Specialized |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be U.S. Citizens, hold an active/unrestricted nursing license, and demonstrate proficiency in English. You must also pass a drug test and pre-employment physical.
Salary and Benefits
- Salary: $87,285 – $161,201 per year.
- Loan Repayment: Eligible for EDRP up to $200,000.
- Leave: 50 days of combined annual, sick, and federal holiday pay.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401k matching.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume clearly details your clinical experience. Always include your DD-214 if claiming Veterans' Preference. We recommend using the standard VA Clinical Resume template found on the VA Careers website.
Join us in Auburn, WA, and become part of a team dedicated to excellence. Your skills will help Veterans navigate their health journeys. Apply today via the VA portal to start your journey with the VA Puget Sound Health Care System.
Why This Registered Nurse - Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job Matters
Advance your nursing career and make a direct impact on the mental health of our nation's heroes. Join the VA Puget Sound team as a Primary Care Mental Health Integration Nurse.
Registered Nurse - Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to join our interdisciplinary Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT). In this pivotal role, you will provide evidence-based, protocol-driven mental health care to Veterans within the primary care setting. You will work as part of a collaborative team to address anxiety, depression, and other health behavior concerns, ensuring that our Veterans receive the comprehensive, compassionate support they have earned.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Primary Care Mental Health Integration
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply under specific conditions).
- Active, full, and unrestricted nursing license in any U.S. State or territory.
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited professional nursing school.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation and drug screening.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Primary Care Mental Health Integration
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- 2-3 years of experience in Psychiatric or Mental Health nursing.
- National certification as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse.
- Demonstrated experience in care coordination and case management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) student loan reimbursement (up to $200,000).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job
- Log in to your USAJobs account or create a new profile.
- Prepare your documentation, including a standard Clinical Resume and full CV.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
- Upload all required documents, including proof of licensure and DD-214 (if applicable).
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
- Be specific in your resume; avoid generalizations regarding your clinical experience.
- Highlight your experience across the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Check your application status frequently through the USAJobs dashboard after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is approved for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan payment reimbursement of up to $200,000.
Can I apply if I don't live in Auburn, Washington?
This is not a virtual position and requires in-person attendance at the duty station. Relocation incentives are not authorized for this role.
How is my salary determined?
Salary is determined based on your education, nursing scope, and years of specialized experience, evaluated against the VA's grade determination standards.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation incentives are not authorized for this position.
What is the schedule?
Monday through Friday, with shifts starting at either 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. We fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to provide compassionate care to those who served in our military and their families. VA Puget Sound is a world-class teaching hospital, recognized for its complex care delivery and commitment to holistic health.