Advance Your Nursing Career: Cardiology Triage at the Durham VA
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to combine your clinical expertise with a sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a motivated Registered Nurse to join the Cardiology Triage team at the Durham VA Medical Center. This is a unique opportunity to provide critical, life-enhancing care to our nation’s Veterans while enjoying the stability and benefits of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a clinical resource within the Cardiology Department. Your daily duties will include:
- Clinical Triage: Managing incoming patient calls and resolving issues within the scope of your RN practice.
- Patient Care: Performing ECGs, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring patient safety.
- Coordination: Serving as the bridge between Cardiology providers, nurse practitioners, and external departments.
- Patient Education: Providing clear, actionable instructions to Veterans regarding their cardiac health.
- Clinic Operations: Maintaining a clean, stocked, and efficient exam environment to ensure high-quality patient outcomes.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following federal requirements:
- Hold a current, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license.
- Possess a degree from an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program.
- Be a U.S. Citizen (with limited exceptions for non-citizens).
- Pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Grade Determination Comparison
| Position Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None required |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma + 1yr or BSN | 1 year specialized |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN/Diploma + 2yrs or BSN + 1yr | 2 years professional |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2yrs or MSN + 1yr | Leadership focus |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2yrs or Doctoral degree | Advanced leadership |
Salary and Benefits
The VHA offers a comprehensive compensation package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial health.
- Salary Range: $82,819 – $155,103 per year, commensurate with education and experience.
- Paid Time Off: 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Federal pension plan and 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with employer matching.
- Insurance: Extensive options for health, dental, vision, and long-term care.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the official VA clinical resume format.
- Be Specific: Detail how your past experience matches the five dimensions of nursing (Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Meet the Deadline: Applications must be submitted by September 8, 2026.
Serving those who served is more than just a job; it is a calling. If you are ready to bring your cardiology nursing skills to a team that values excellence and integrity, we encourage you to apply for the Cardiology Triage RN position at the Durham VA Medical Center today.
Why This Registered Nurse (Cardiology Triage) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on those who served by joining the Cardiology Triage team at the Durham VA Medical Center. Elevate your nursing career with a mission-driven organization.
Registered Nurse (Cardiology Triage) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse for a Cardiology Triage position in Durham, North Carolina. This role is central to our cardiology department, involving clinical triage, patient education, and seamless coordination between providers and patients. You will play a vital role in ensuring that our nation's Veterans receive compassionate, high-quality, whole-health cardiac care in a collaborative, supportive environment.
Requirements for Registered Nurse (Cardiology Triage)
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be hired if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Background and security investigation clearance.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse (Cardiology Triage)
- Minimum of 3 years of clinical nursing experience specifically in a cardiology setting.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex clinical situations with minimal supervision.
- Strong proficiency in patient education and triage communication protocols.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular performance-based increases.
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with matching contributions up to 5%.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
- ✓Long-term care insurance availability.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse (Cardiology Triage) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse (Cardiology Triage) Job
- Log in to or create your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume document from the provided link.
- Upload the standardized resume into the two-page restricted field and your full CV into the 'Other' documents section.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and detailed when describing your clinical experience to ensure proper grade determination.
- Use the standardized Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to avoid processing errors.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the announcement.
- Double-check that all required documents, including your nursing license and SF-50 (if applicable), are attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
What is the work schedule for this role?
The position operates Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Can I apply if I don't have a U.S. state nursing license yet?
The Graduate Nurse Technician (GNT) exception may apply to candidates actively pursuing licensure, but you must generally hold an active, unrestricted license to be appointed to a permanent RN position.
Is this role eligible for telework?
*A: Yes, this position is eligible for ad-hoc telework as determined by agency policy.*
What is the security level for this position?
*A: This is a non-sensitive, low-risk position requiring a background check.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional healthcare that improves their health and well-being. By joining the Durham VA team, you become part of a professional community dedicated to evidence-based practice, compassionate care, and continuous clinical improvement.