Lead with Purpose: Chief Nurse, Spinal Cord Injury at Tampa VA
Are you a dedicated clinical leader looking to advance your career while serving those who have sacrificed for our nation? The Tampa VA Health Care System is seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking Chief Nurse to lead our Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) service. This executive-level position offers the unique opportunity to manage integrated nursing programs that directly influence the mission, vision, and strategic success of our health care system.
About the Tampa VA Health Care System
The Tampa VA is a cornerstone of the Veterans Integrated Service Network 8 (VISN 8). We operate across 20 locations in central Florida, ranging from the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital to numerous community-based outpatient clinics. Our mission is clear: to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our military and their families.
The Role
As the Chief Nurse for SCI, you will report directly to the Deputy Associate Director of Patient Care/Nursing Services. You will provide leadership and oversight for our acute and long-term care SCI units. Your role will involve mentoring nurse managers, coordinators, and educators, ensuring that high-reliability organization principles are integrated into daily operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Executive Oversight: Manage daily clinical and administrative operations for all SCI units.
- Strategic Leadership: Develop systems to enhance infrastructure, communication, and resource utilization.
- Collaborative Practice: Work across service lines to establish standards of care and innovative care models.
- Clinical Education: Serve as an administrator, consultant, and educator to improve nursing outcomes.
Comparison: Experience Requirements
| Degree Level | Required Experience (Total) | Specialized Experience (Required) |
|---|---|---|
| Master's (MSN) | 4 Years | 1 Year (Nurse III level) |
| Master's (Related) | 4 Years | 1 Year (Nurse III level) |
| Doctoral (Nursing) | 3 Years | 1 Year (Nurse III level) |
| Doctoral (Related) | 3 Years | 1 Year (Nurse III level) |
Benefits Overview
The VA offers a competitive "Total Rewards" package designed to support your professional and personal life. Key benefits include:
- Retirement: A stable federal pension and 401K (TSP) with agency matching.
- Work-Life Balance: 50 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday leave.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Application Tips
Success in your application depends on how well you articulate your experience. Because this is a high-level leadership role, focus your resume on achievements rather than just duties. Mention specific interdisciplinary teams you have led, policies you have implemented, and instances where your leadership improved clinical performance or patient outcomes. Remember to include the standard Clinical Resume Document required by the VA to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
If you possess the leadership skills to drive excellence in spinal cord injury care, we invite you to join our team in Tampa. You will find more than just a job; you will find a mission that matters. Apply today to help us provide industry-leading care to our nation's Veterans.
Why This Spinal Cord Injury - Chief Nurse Job Matters
Lead transformative care for America’s heroes as the Chief Nurse of Spinal Cord Injury services at the Tampa VA.
Spinal Cord Injury - Chief Nurse Job Overview
The Tampa VA Health Care System is seeking an experienced, visionary leader to serve as the Chief Nurse for our Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) service. In this executive role, you will oversee clinical and administrative operations for acute and long-term SCI care units, managing a dedicated team of nurse managers, coordinators, and educators. You will play a pivotal role in shaping patient care standards, driving organizational change, and ensuring our Veterans receive world-class, holistic treatment within the VA Sunshine Health Care Network.
Requirements for Spinal Cord Injury - Chief Nurse
- U.S. Citizenship (preference given to citizens).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited professional nursing school.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and background/security investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to pass pre-employment drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Spinal Cord Injury - Chief Nurse
- At least five years of progressively complex nursing experience in diverse settings.
- Minimum of three years in a supervisory or administrative capacity.
- Demonstrated history of leadership in program development, policy implementation, and interdisciplinary team management.
- Direct experience in Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) or Long-Term Care (LTC) settings.
- Relevant professional certifications (e.g., Nurse Executive).
- Familiarity with accrediting standards such as TJC and CARF.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Generous PTO including 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid holidays.
- ✓Regular salary increases and performance-based awards.
💡 How to Apply Spinal Cord Injury - Chief Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Spinal Cord Injury - Chief Nurse Job
- Create or log in to your account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare your resume with detailed month/year dates, hours worked per week, and job titles.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided application portal.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and license proof.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Be highly specific regarding your leadership experience; do not assume the recruiter knows your specific unit responsibilities.
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights how your experience aligns with the five dimensions of VHA nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Research.
- Upload your full CV as an 'Other' document to supplement the required clinical resume format.
- Verify your license and education credentials well in advance of the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this is an onsite leadership position that requires daily physical presence at the Tampa facility.
What is the education requirement for this role?
The role requires a Master’s degree in Nursing (MSN) or a related field (with a BSN), or a Doctoral degree in nursing or a related field (with a BSN), combined with specific years of specialized experience.