Launch Your Healthcare Career as a Nursing Assistant at the Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital
Are you looking to make a lasting impact on the lives of those who have served our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring dedicated Nursing Assistants for the Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital in Hines, Illinois. This role offers more than just a job; it provides a pathway to a stable, rewarding federal career with unmatched benefits and the chance to contribute to the recovery and well-being of our veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you serve as the backbone of the clinical team. Your duties will be diverse, requiring technical skill, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to patient dignity. Key responsibilities include:
- Patient Care: Assisting veterans with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, mobility, and feeding.
- Diagnostic Support: Assisting with procedures such as blood glucose monitoring, specimen collection, and utilizing specialized medical equipment.
- Clinical Documentation: Charting patient status accurately in the electronic health record system.
- Emergency Response: Recognizing medical emergencies and initiating life-saving interventions while waiting for higher-level support.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific federal requirements, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in both spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a mandatory drug test and security background check.
- Completion of required medical screenings, including annual TB and influenza vaccinations.
Grade Qualification Comparison
| Grade Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-3 | High School Diploma or equivalent | 6 months general experience |
| GS-4 | 2 years of post-high school education | 1 year specialized NA experience |
| GS-5 | Bachelor’s degree in related field | 1 year experience equivalent to GS-4 |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- GS-3: $39,532 – $51,386
- GS-4: $42,229 – $54,904
- GS-5: $47,247 – $61,415
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive compensation package. Employees enjoy:
- Health & Wellness: Federal health, dental, and vision insurance that can continue into retirement.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual, plus 11 paid Federal holidays.
- Financial Security: A traditional federal pension and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching.
- Family Support: Paid parental leave and potential childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your application package is complete. Use the standardized VA clinical resume template to ensure all your relevant clinical hours are documented clearly. Double-check that your responses to the questionnaire align with your resume entries.
If you are a passionate professional ready to serve veterans, we encourage you to apply for the Nursing Assistant position at the Hines VA Hospital. Start your journey today and become part of a team dedicated to honoring those who served.
Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the dedicated nursing team at the Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital.
Nursing Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking compassionate and dedicated Nursing Assistants to join our clinical team in Hines, Illinois. In this role, you will provide vital patient care, supporting the medical team by assisting veterans with daily living activities, monitoring vital signs, and contributing to individualized recovery plans. This is an open continuous announcement, making it an excellent opportunity for motivated healthcare professionals to join a mission-driven organization that values excellence and service.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant
- Must be a citizen of the United States.
- Must demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Completion of a drug screening process is required.
- Must be able to successfully complete a background and security investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to complete annual health requirements, including TB screenings and seasonal influenza vaccinations.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant
- 1-2 years of experience working in an inpatient mental health clinical setting.
- Advanced technical skills related to nursing procedures, including bladder scans and glucose monitoring.
- Proven ability to act as a preceptor for new clinical staff members.
- Experience working in a multidisciplinary team within a hospital or long-term care environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including 13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year.
- ✓Federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓401(k) style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching contributions up to 5%.
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
- ✓Potential for childcare subsidies for qualifying families.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job
- Log in or create an account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Download and complete the required clinical resume document template.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and any required eligibility documents (such as SF-50 or DD-214).
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the provided clinical resume template specifically designed for VA applications.
- Be highly specific when describing your nursing experience; do not assume the recruiter knows your scope of practice.
- Ensure your document uploads include all relevant certifications and educational transcripts to support your grade qualification.
- Double-check that all contact information is accurate before clicking submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shift schedule for this position?
The schedule is 7:30 PM to 8:00 AM, Monday through Friday, with a requirement to work every other weekend and rotating holidays.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Is the salary fixed?
No, the pay is competitive and based on the GS grade (3-5), with eligibility for regular federal salary increases.
What is the work environment like?
You will work in a fast-paced hospital setting where teamwork is essential. You must be comfortable working with patients who may be experiencing behavioral or physical challenges.
Is there an opportunity for advancement?
Yes, the VA supports career development and provides opportunities for growth within the healthcare system.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to more than 9 million veterans, the VHA is committed to excellence, integrity, and compassion. Working at the Hines VA Hospital means joining a multidisciplinary team that utilizes cutting-edge technology and evidence-based practice to ensure veterans receive the best possible care.