Launch Your Healthcare Career at the Marion VA
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Marion VA Health Care System is seeking dedicated Nursing Assistants to join our Medical/Surgical nursing team. This is an incredible opportunity to provide high-quality care to the heroes of our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you serve as the eyes and ears of the nursing team. Your daily tasks include:
- Patient Monitoring: Taking vital signs, observing physical/emotional status, and performing cardiac rhythm monitoring via telemetry systems.
- Direct Support: Assisting with patient hygiene, mobility, transfers, and feeding.
- Clinical Assistance: Supporting nurses during sterile procedures, gathering supplies, and helping with diagnostic exams.
- Safety Coordination: Participating in team handoffs to ensure seamless continuity of care.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Requirements | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-3 | Entry Level | Close supervision, foundational support. |
| GS-4 | Intermediate | Specialized technical skills, intermediate treatment. |
| GS-5 | Full Performance | Complex patient care, mentorship, and emergent response. |
Requirements
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in English.
- Completion of pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Seasonal influenza vaccination compliance.
Benefits
Working for the VA offers more than just a paycheck. Our employees enjoy:
- Generous Leave: Accrue 13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Financial Security: Federal pension plans and 401(k) contributions with agency matching.
- Work-Life Balance: Options for parental leave and childcare subsidies.
Serving those who have served is a unique privilege. If you are ready to grow your clinical skills in a supportive, mission-driven environment, we invite you to apply for the Nursing Assistant position at the Marion VA today.
Why This Nursing Assistant Medical/Surgery Unit Job Matters
Join the Marion VA Health Care System and turn your passion for patient care into a rewarding career supporting those who served our nation.
Nursing Assistant Medical/Surgery Unit Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is hiring compassionate Nursing Assistants to join our Medical/Surgical team in Marion, Illinois. In this role, you will provide vital support to acute-care Veterans, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being while gaining valuable clinical experience in a high-impact hospital environment.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant Medical/Surgery Unit
- Must be a United States Citizen.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination programs.
- Background and security investigation clearance.
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant Medical/Surgery Unit
- Two years of previous Nursing Assistant experience.
- One year of specific acute care Nursing Assistant experience.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Prior training or experience in telemetry monitoring.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of paid leave annually (including sick and federal holidays).
- ✓Federal pension and 401(k) retirement plan with up to 5% agency match.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible families.
- ✓Career progression and mentorship opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Medical/Surgery Unit Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Medical/Surgery Unit Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the required clinical resume template.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, SF-50 (if applicable), and supporting credentials.
- Submit your application package by the September 8, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume reflects experience in a month/year (MM/YYYY) format for every position.
- Detail your work experience clearly—the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your skills.
- Use the provided clinical resume document to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests regarding your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Nursing Assistant in the Medical/Surgical unit?
You will assist with direct patient care, including monitoring vital signs, facilitating personal hygiene, performing cardiac monitoring, assisting with mobility, and documenting patient status to support the nursing team.
Can I qualify for this position without prior experience?
Yes, the entry-level GS-3 position requires only basic qualifications, while higher grades (GS-4 and GS-5) require specific combinations of specialized experience or relevant education.
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is an in-person, patient-facing clinical role based at the Marion VA facility in Illinois.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our military, as well as their families. At the Marion VA, we prioritize "Whole Health" care, ensuring that every Veteran receives compassionate, evidence-based treatment. Joining our team means becoming part of an agency that values national service and emergency preparedness.