Launch Your Nursing Career at the Buffalo VA: Progressive Care Registered Nurse Opportunity
Are you a dedicated nurse looking to advance your practice while serving those who have served our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) at the Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo is seeking a compassionate and skilled Registered Nurse for our Progressive Care unit (5C). This role offers a unique combination of clinical challenge, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a comprehensive federal benefits package.
Job Responsibilities
As a Progressive Care RN, you will be on the front lines of patient recovery. Your primary duties include:
- Performing comprehensive health assessments and identifying patient complications.
- Developing and updating evidence-based nursing care plans.
- Collaborating with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare staff to optimize health outcomes.
- Educating patients and their families on health management and illness prevention.
- Serving as a charge nurse and mentor for clinical staff.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A graduate of an accredited nursing school (ACEN or CCNE).
- Licensure: A current, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state or territory.
- Proficiency: Excellent English communication skills.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a federal background check and pre-employment physical.
Salary and Grade Overview
Candidates are placed into grades based on their specific nursing experience and education level. The pay range for this position is $75,760 to $139,451 annually, depending on your qualifications.
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN / Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN / Diploma + 2 yrs | 1 year at Level II |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 yrs | 2 years at Level III |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2 yrs | 1 year at Level II level |
Benefits
The VA provides a "Total Rewards" package that is industry-leading:
- EDRP Program: Up to $200,000 in student loan debt reduction.
- Paid Time Off: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave annually.
- Federal Insurance: A wide array of health, dental, and vision plans.
- Retirement: Dual-pathway retirement with a pension and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the official VA clinical resume template to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
- Be Quantitative: Clearly state your years of experience and the types of patient settings you have worked in.
- Highlight Leadership: If you have acted as a preceptor or charge nurse, ensure this is highlighted under your practice dimension criteria.
If you are ready to elevate your nursing career in a rewarding environment where your work directly honors our Veterans, we encourage you to apply. The VA is more than just a workplace—it is a community dedicated to excellence in care. Apply today via the USAJOBS portal.
Why This Registered Nurse - Progressive Care (5c) Job Matters
Advance your nursing career at the VA Western New York Healthcare System, where your expertise in progressive care directly improves the lives of those who served our nation.
Registered Nurse - Progressive Care (5c) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse for the Progressive Care Team (5C) in Buffalo, New York. This role focuses on providing high-quality, evidence-based nursing care to Veterans within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. You will play a vital role in patient assessment, care coordination, and the implementation of medical regimens, serving as a key member of the healthcare team.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Progressive Care (5c)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply only when qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Active, unrestricted license as a professional nurse in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Graduate of an accredited professional nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening.
- Background and security investigation clearance.
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Progressive Care (5c)
- Two years of recent RN experience in an acute care or medical/surgical setting.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Active BLS or ACLS certification.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal retirement pension and 401(k) with up to 5% employer match.
- ✓Regular salary increases and performance-based awards.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Progressive Care (5c) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Progressive Care (5c) Job
- Review the full vacancy details on the official application portal.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Download and utilize the mandatory clinical resume template provided by the VA.
- Upload your resume, license, and any relevant supporting documents (e.g., DD-214 for veterans).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and clear in your resume; do not leave the hiring team to make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your responses in the questionnaire match the details provided in your uploaded documents.
- Double-check that you have uploaded the correct, required clinical resume template.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
- Use your experience description to highlight the five dimensions of VHA nursing: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for eligible participants.
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time position with a day tour (7:30 am - 8:00 pm), including requirements for weekends and holidays.
Do I need a New York nursing license?
No, you must possess a current, full, active, and unrestricted registration as a nurse in any U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Currently, relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I telework?
This position requires onsite clinical duties and is not eligible for telework.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to our nation's Veterans. The VA Western New York Healthcare System is a premier teaching facility that provides a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient services. Joining our team means becoming part of a culture that values professional growth, evidence-based care, and the holistic well-being of every patient.