Empowering the Next Generation: PBRNR Program Director Opportunity at VA Eastern Kansas
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class, compassionate healthcare to our nation’s veterans. A cornerstone of this commitment is the training and development of our nursing workforce. The VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System (VAEKHCS) is currently seeking a visionary and dedicated Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency (PBRNR) Program Director to join our team in Leavenworth, Kansas.
This position is more than just a nursing role; it is a leadership opportunity to shape the future of clinical practice. By directing our residency program, you will bridge the gap between academic nursing and clinical excellence, ensuring that our next generation of nurses is fully prepared to provide the high-reliability care that our veterans deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As the PBRNR Program Director, you will serve as the architect of our nursing residency pipeline. Key responsibilities include:
- Program Strategy: Assessing, planning, and evaluating the residency program to align with VA mission goals.
- Leadership & Mentorship: Recruiting, coaching, and supervising program participants to ensure professional growth.
- Curriculum Development: Designing data-driven training initiatives that address the complexities of modern clinical care.
- Quality Assurance: Systematically appraising the effectiveness of the residency and disseminating outcomes to stakeholders.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate a high level of clinical expertise and educational experience.
- Education: Completion of a school of professional nursing approved by the ACEN or CCNE.
- Licensure: A current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license.
- Experience: Applicants must demonstrate competency in the five VA nursing dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
Grade Determination Summary
| Position Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma or BSN | 1 Year (Level I equiv) |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN/Diploma, BSN, or MSN | 1-2 Years (Level II equiv) |
| Nurse II | BSN, MSN, or Doctoral | 1-2 Years (Level III equiv) |
| Nurse III | MSN or Doctoral | 1-2 Years (Level II equiv) |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $70,009 to $130,744 per year, depending on experience, education, and the specific grade level assigned during the review process.
Benefits
The VA provides a comprehensive rewards package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial health:
- Leave: 50 days of total paid time off (26 annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays).
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k) plans with up to 5% agency matching.
- Insurance: Access to extensive health, dental, and life insurance benefits that often continue into retirement.
Application Tips
- Use the Required Format: Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the official VA careers site to ensure your application meets technical requirements.
- Be Specific: Do not leave room for assumptions. Detail how your volunteer, clinical, and management experience aligns with the five VA nursing core dimensions.
- Monitor Your Status: Keep an eye on your USAJobs dashboard, as referrals occur every two weeks.
Serving as a PBRNR Program Director at the VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System is an opportunity to leave a lasting impact on veteran care. If you are a leader at heart with a passion for teaching and clinical excellence, we encourage you to apply and join us in honoring those who have served.
Why This Registered Nurse - Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency (Pbrnr) Job Matters
Shape the future of veteran healthcare by leading the Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency Program at the VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System.
Registered Nurse - Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency (Pbrnr) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated and visionary Registered Nurse to serve as the Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency (PBRNR) Program Director. Based in Leavenworth, Kansas, this role is critical to the VA's mission of building a pipeline of highly trained nursing professionals. As a Director, you will oversee the strategic implementation, evaluation, and mentorship of nursing residents, ensuring they are prepared to deliver high-quality, whole-health care to our nation's veterans.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency (Pbrnr)
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered if no qualified citizens are available).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Graduate of a nursing program accredited by the ACEN or CCNE.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination or authorized exemption.
- Background and security investigation clearance.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency (Pbrnr)
- 2 years of professional nursing education experience.
- Prior experience as a Program Manager or Director in a clinical or educational setting.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and manage systematic, data-driven training initiatives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases and performance awards.
- ✓Generous Paid Time Off: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Retirement benefits including a traditional pension and federal 401(k) with agency matching.
- ✓Flexible career pathways and professional development opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency (Pbrnr) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Post Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency (Pbrnr) Job
- Visit the USAJobs portal to create or access your profile.
- Review the specific questionnaire link provided in the announcement.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Prepare your full resume/CV and any supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, licenses, DD-214).
- Upload your documents, ensuring the standard resume is in the restricted field and your full CV is in the 'Other' field.
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in describing your nursing experience related to the five core VA nursing dimensions.
- Ensure all educational degrees from foreign institutions are accompanied by a recognized equivalency validation.
- Submit your application early; the agency begins reviewing candidates on a bi-weekly basis.
- Carefully follow the document upload instructions to avoid disqualification due to missing or incorrectly labeled files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this is an on-site, in-person position located at the Leavenworth, Kansas facility.
What happens if I don't have all my licensure yet?
Qualified candidates may be appointed as a Graduate Nurse Technician (GNT) for up to 120 days while actively pursuing licensure, with potential extensions.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System serves a vast population, covering 20,000 square miles across eastern Kansas and northwestern Missouri. With nearly 2,000 employees and service to over 40,000 veterans annually, we are a pillar of the community. We operate under a Whole Health approach, focusing on the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of both our patients and our staff.