Embark on a Rewarding Nursing Career with the Dayton VA
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a role that combines professional challenge with a profound sense of purpose? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Dayton, Ohio, is seeking a compassionate and highly skilled Registered Nurse to join our Emergency Department. This is more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing world-class care to the brave men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Emergency Department RN, your daily tasks will be dynamic and multifaceted. You will:
- Provide urgent and emergent care for acute and chronic conditions.
- Conduct patient triage based on the five-level system to prioritize immediate medical needs.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans.
- Perform life-support and resuscitation measures when necessary.
- Delegate and supervise care provided by licensed practical nurses and support staff.
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes.
Requirements
You must meet several foundational requirements to be eligible for this position, including U.S. citizenship, completion of an accredited nursing program, and possessing an active, unrestricted nursing license. Candidates are also subject to pre-employment physicals, background checks, and standard drug screenings.
Grade Determination Comparison
| Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None required |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma OR BSN | 1 year (for ADN/Diploma) |
| Nurse II | BSN OR Master's | 2 years specialized experience |
| Nurse III | MSN | 2 years specialized experience |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a highly competitive annual salary ranging from $76,624 to $163,837, depending on your experience and qualifications. In addition to pay, the VA offers a comprehensive "Total Rewards" package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial security.
- Time Off: Receive 50 days of paid time off per year, including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Retirement: Benefit from a traditional federal pension and a 401K with generous employer matching.
- Insurance: Access a full suite of federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance programs.
How to Apply
Applying for federal nursing roles can seem complex, but the process is straightforward if you are prepared. Start by reviewing the job announcement on the USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume is detailed, clearly outlining your nursing practice across the five dimensions required by the VA: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
Download the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the VHA Careers website to ensure your application meets all formatting expectations. Submit your full application package online before the September 11, 2026, deadline.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is a direct patient care position located on-site at the Dayton VA Medical Center.
Is the influenza vaccine mandatory?
Yes, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment for all VHA healthcare personnel.
If you are ready to advance your clinical career while serving those who have served, the Dayton VA Medical Center is the place to be. With unmatched benefits, a supportive team environment, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in Veterans' lives, this position is an excellent next step for any committed nursing professional. Apply today and start your journey with the VHA.
Why This Nurse Job Matters
Join the Dayton VA team as a Registered Nurse and make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served our nation.
Nurse Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Registered Nurse to join the Emergency Department at the Dayton VA Medical Center. This position focuses on providing acute, evidence-based nursing care to Veterans within a dynamic, teaching-oriented environment. As a key member of our healthcare team, you will handle a diverse range of medical, surgical, and psychiatric conditions, playing a vital role in stabilization and patient recovery.
Requirements for Nurse
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Graduate of an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE)
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Subject to drug screening and background investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Nurse
- Prior experience working in an Emergency Department setting
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities in clinical environments
- Evidence of commitment to ongoing professional development
- Experience managing complex patient triage and care coordination
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans
- ✓Traditional federal pension program
- ✓Federal 401K with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Opportunities for performance-based awards
💡 How to Apply Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nurse Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the required documents list and prepare your resume.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, license, and other supporting documentation.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume regarding your nursing experience and how it aligns with the five dimensions of VHA practice.
- Use the provided standard resume template to ensure all required information is captured.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
- Ensure your nursing license is current and uploaded to your profile.
- Double-check that all required documents, such as transcripts or DD-214s, are legible and attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am a recent graduate?
Yes, depending on your education level and program type, entry-level positions may be available for qualified candidates.
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work schedule like?
The position primarily involves overnight shifts (7:30 PM - 8:00 AM) with rotational requirements for weekends and holidays.
Is prior VA experience required?
No, we encourage nurses from all backgrounds to apply, provided they meet the clinical licensure requirements.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is clear: to fulfill the promise of providing high-quality, compassionate care to Veterans and their families. The Dayton VA Medical Center is a tertiary care facility offering a wide array of services, including acute, mental health, and hospice care, all within a teaching environment that emphasizes research and clinical excellence.
Located in the heart of Southwestern Ohio, Dayton offers a high quality of life with affordable housing, excellent schools, and a vibrant cultural scene, all while being just a short drive from major metropolitan areas like Cincinnati and Columbus.