Launch Your Career as a Nursing Assistant with the Sheridan VA
Are you looking for a career that balances clinical challenge with a high quality of life? The Sheridan VA Health Care System is currently hiring compassionate Nursing Assistants to support our mission of providing world-class care to America's Veterans. Situated in the beautiful landscape of Wyoming, our medical center offers a unique opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to a vital cause.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you will provide direct, hands-on care under the supervision of Registered Nurses or Licensed Practical Nurses. Your day-to-day duties will be dynamic and essential to patient recovery:
- Patient Care: Assisting with daily activities, hygiene, nutrition, and mobility.
- Monitoring: Observing and reporting changes in vital signs, skin condition, or emotional status.
- Diagnostics: Operating medical equipment such as glucose monitors and bladder scanners.
- Administrative: Maintaining accurate patient records using electronic health platforms.
- Communication: Educating patients and their families about care plans and recovery processes.
Comparison Table: Why Choose a VA Career?
| Feature | VA Healthcare Career | Typical Private Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement | Pension + 401K Match | Often 401K only |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 days total | Varies widely |
| Patient Mission | Exclusively Veterans | General Public |
| Environment | Federal Facility | Diverse settings |
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet specific standards:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
- Successful background and security checks.
- Ability to adhere to the VA's influenza vaccination requirements.
Salary and Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a robust compensation package. You will earn between $41,562 and $67,859 annually, with regular salary increases based on performance and tenure. Beyond salary, our benefits include:
- Comprehensive Insurance: Health, dental, vision, and long-term care.
- Retirement: A traditional pension coupled with a 401K-style plan.
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Family Support: Paid parental leave and child care subsidies for eligible employees.
Application Tips
- Use the Required Template: Always use the VA-provided clinical resume format.
- Be Detailed: List every skill and duty clearly; do not leave room for ambiguity.
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the closing date of September 30, 2026.
- Check Your Email: Keep an eye on your inbox for status notifications from the USAJOBS portal.
Joining the Sheridan VA is more than just a job—it is a commitment to the men and women who served our country. If you are ready to make a difference, apply today and join a team that values your skill, your dedication, and your future.
Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served our country while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and work-life balance of Sheridan, Wyoming.
Nursing Assistant Job Overview
The Sheridan VA Health Care System is seeking dedicated Nursing Assistants to join our team. In this role, you will provide essential, compassionate direct patient care across various clinical units including Medical, Acute Physiocratic, and Residential Rehabilitation. Whether you are at the start of your medical career or an experienced professional, this role offers the opportunity to practice high-quality, patient-centered care in a supportive, historic environment.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Completion of a background and security investigation
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Successful completion of a trial period upon appointment
- Ability to complete online onboarding and pre-employment requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant
- 12 months of prior professional Nursing Assistant experience
- Specialized experience in hospital, long-term care, or outpatient settings
- Technical knowledge of medical equipment and patient diagnostic tools
- Demonstrated ability to function within an interdisciplinary medical team
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401k plan with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 26 days of annual leave and 13 sick days)
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Child care subsidy for qualifying families
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume template provided by the VA.
- Prepare your documentation, including transcripts and any professional certifications.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and supporting documents.
- Submit your application package before the announcement closes.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; do not rely on the hiring team to make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your transcript is attached if your qualifications are based on education.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your application is processed correctly.
- Check your USAJOBS account regularly for status updates after the announcement closes.
- Double-check that all required fields in the questionnaire are completed before hitting submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The pay range for this Nursing Assistant position is $41,562 to $67,859 per year, depending on qualifications and assigned grade level.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is a direct patient care role requiring on-site presence at the Sheridan VA Health Care System in Wyoming.
What happens if I have prior military service?
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual based on their prior military service or relevant work experience.
Is a degree required for this role?
*A: Not necessarily. There are pathways for entry-level candidates based on experience, and pathways for those with specialized training or education.*
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
*A: U.S. citizenship is a requirement; however, exceptions exist only under specific recruitment conditions defined by the VA.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and survivors." The Sheridan VA Health Care System operates a 200-bed facility that provides a full range of acute, chronic, and outpatient services. Located on the historic 296-acre Fort Mackenzie campus, we serve nearly 13,000 Veterans in the region.