Embark on a Meaningful Nursing Career at the Cleveland VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Nurse looking to combine your clinical expertise with a deep commitment to service? The Department of Veterans Affairs is currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Registered Nurse for the Outpatient Mental Health (BHIP) unit at the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide specialized, recovery-oriented care to the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a bridge between specialized mental health services and the patient. Key duties include:
- Patient-Centered Care: Delivering compassionate nursing care tailored to the unique recovery needs of Veterans with mental health conditions.
- Care Coordination: Engaging in interdisciplinary team huddles to ensure seamless continuity of care.
- Emergency Response: Assessing, triaging, and responding to psychiatric and medical emergencies.
- Education: Providing Veterans and their families with clear information regarding medications, treatment plans, and illness management.
- Therapeutic Practice: Utilizing de-escalation and therapeutic communication to maintain a safe and healing environment.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following baseline standards:
- Hold a current, unrestricted Registered Nurse license.
- Possess a degree from an accredited nursing program.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Maintain a commitment to patient safety and health protocols, including seasonal vaccinations.
Salary and Grade Determination
Compensation is determined based on your unique combination of education and clinical experience. The salary range for this position is $82,275 to $151,235 per year. Below is a breakdown of typical grade level requirements:
| Level | Education Required | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Lvl I | ADN/Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Lvl III | BSN | 1 Year (equivalent) |
| Nurse II | BSN | 2 Years (equivalent) |
| Nurse III | MSN | 2 Years (specialized) |
Benefits
Working for the VA offers a robust total rewards package, designed to support your long-term success and well-being:
- Loan Repayment: Access to the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Leave: 50 days of paid time off per year including annual leave, sick leave, and holidays.
- Retirement: A stable federal pension and the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
- Insurance: A variety of high-quality health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans.
This position offers a unique chance to grow professionally while serving a population that has given so much. If you are ready to utilize your skills in a setting that values integrity, innovation, and compassion, apply today to join the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System.
Why This Registered Nurse-Outpatient Mental Health (Bhip) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on those who served by delivering specialized, recovery-oriented nursing care at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center.
Registered Nurse-Outpatient Mental Health (Bhip) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to join the Outpatient Mental Health (BHIP) team in Cleveland, Ohio. This role focuses on providing compassionate, patient-centered care to Veterans navigating mental health conditions. You will serve as a vital part of an interdisciplinary team, facilitating care coordination, performing triage assessments, and implementing recovery-oriented treatment plans in a supportive, state-of-the-art medical environment.
Requirements for Registered Nurse-Outpatient Mental Health (Bhip)
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment exceptions apply).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Graduate of an accredited professional nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse licensure in any U.S. State or territory.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Ability to complete background and security investigations.
- Commitment to annual seasonal influenza vaccination or authorized exemption.
- Compliance with drug testing requirements as a condition of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse-Outpatient Mental Health (Bhip)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Three or more years of experience caring for patients with Serious Mental Illness.
- Three or more years of experience providing care for Substance Use Disorders.
- ANCC certification in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility for qualified student loans.
- ✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases.
- ✓50 days of total paid time off (26 annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Comprehensive federal retirement package, including a pension and 401k-style TSP.
- ✓Extensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Supportive work-life balance in a professional clinical environment.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse-Outpatient Mental Health (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse-Outpatient Mental Health (Bhip) Job
- Create or update your profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Review the full position questionnaire to understand assessment criteria.
- Download and prepare the required Clinical Resume document from the provided VA link.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including your resume, nursing license, and DD-214 if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal before the September 1, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in months and years to allow for accurate grade determination.
- Utilize the standard Clinical Resume document provided by the VA to ensure all required information is formatted correctly.
- Double-check that your nursing license is current and active in your uploaded documents.
- If you are a Veteran, ensure your DD-214 is legible and clearly shows the character of your service to receive preference consideration.
- Monitor your email frequently after applying for status updates regarding your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP). Specific award amounts and eligibility periods are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services office after review.
What is the work schedule for this role?
This is a standard weekday position operating Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
Can I work remotely or telework?
No, this is an on-site clinical position and is not eligible for telework or virtual status.
What is the application deadline?
*A: The deadline to apply is September 1, 2026.*
Do I need to be a Veteran to apply?
*A: No, this position is open to the public as well as internal candidates.*
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System is a beacon of excellence, providing comprehensive healthcare to over 124,000 Veterans across 21 counties. Anchored by the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, the system utilizes state-of-the-art technology and collaborative research to improve the lives of our nation's Veterans. Joining the VA means becoming part of a community dedicated to 'Whole Health' care, ensuring that every Veteran receives personalized, effective treatment.