Advance Your Nursing Career: Clinical Ambulatory Nurse Opportunities in Tacoma
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a role that combines clinical excellence with service to those who protect our nation? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring a Clinical/Ambulatory Nurse at the renowned Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. This role is a unique chance to join a world-class healthcare team while enjoying the security and benefits of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be at the front lines of outpatient care. Key responsibilities include:
- Patient Triage: Prioritizing care and coordinating multi-departmental treatment plans.
- Medical Charting: Evaluating patient history and documenting medical needs.
- Procedure Safety: Assisting with surgical/audiology procedures and maintaining safety standards.
- Education: Instructing patients on self-care and educating staff members.
- Compliance: Managing staff competencies to ensure alignment with Joint Commission standards.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | Accredited Degree in Nursing (Associate, Bachelor, or Graduate) |
| License | Current, Active, Unrestricted RN License |
| Experience | At least 1 year at GS-09 equivalent level |
| Certification | Must have passed the NCLEX |
Requirements
To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen and hold a valid nursing degree from an accredited program. Applicants are required to maintain an active, unrestricted nursing license. Because this position is designated as Emergency Essential, candidates must be prepared to fulfill medical immunization requirements and remain on-duty during emergency or inclement weather conditions.
Salary Overview
The position offers a highly competitive salary range between $107,067 and $139,196 per year, including locality pay. Salary negotiation may be available for candidates who are new to the federal government.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Extensive health insurance choices.
- Federal retirement pension plans.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government contributions.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for the right candidate.
Application Tips
Your resume is the most important part of your application. Ensure it is formatted clearly, does not exceed two pages, and explicitly lists your clinical duties, hours worked per week, and employment dates. Always double-check that you have uploaded your nursing license and official transcripts, as these are mandatory for eligibility.
Joining the medical team at Madigan Army Medical Center is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health and readiness of the U.S. Armed Forces. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenging, rewarding nursing career in Tacoma, submit your application before the September 8, 2026 deadline.
Why This Nurse (Clinical/Ambulatory) Job Matters
Advance your nursing career at the prestigious Madigan Army Medical Center while providing essential care to those who serve our nation.
Nurse (Clinical/Ambulatory) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Clinical/Ambulatory Nurse to join the Department of Surgery/Audiology Service at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. This role offers an incredible opportunity for a skilled professional to manage complex patient care, coordinate multidisciplinary treatment, and ensure high-quality standards in an emergency-essential environment. This is a Direct Hire Authority position, reflecting the high importance placed on recruiting top-tier medical talent.
Requirements for Nurse (Clinical/Ambulatory)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Completion of an accredited nursing degree program (Associate, Bachelor, or Graduate level).
- Must hold a current, active, and unrestricted registered nurse license in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Minimum of one full year of professional nursing experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level.
- Must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
- Must maintain Emergency Essential status, including mandatory medical immunizations.
- Ability to clear all pre-employment background and drug screenings.
Preferred Qualifications for Nurse (Clinical/Ambulatory)
- Clinical experience in an ambulatory or outpatient surgical setting.
- Strong proficiency in patient education and multidisciplinary care coordination.
- Demonstrated ability to manage staff competencies according to Joint Commission standards.
- Prior experience working within a large-scale integrated healthcare system.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with potential for negotiation for new federal employees.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Generous federal retirement and pension benefits (FERS).
- ✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment options).
- ✓Recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Defense healthcare system.
💡 How to Apply Nurse (Clinical/Ambulatory) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nurse (Clinical/Ambulatory) Job
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages.
- Create or log into your account on the official federal job portal.
- Complete the required online questionnaire in its entirety.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including academic transcripts, nursing licenses, and performance appraisals.
- Submit your final package before the September 8, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your status through the application dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Be explicit in your resume regarding hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for each past position.
- Avoid using obscure acronyms; explain your experience using clear, professional terminology.
- Double-check that you have attached your official state nursing license and transcripts, as missing these documents will result in an ineligible rating.
- Ensure your documentation is uploaded well in advance to allow for the automated security virus scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance available?
Yes, recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates, though Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not currently authorized.
What is meant by 'Emergency Essential' status?
This designation means the position is critical to the mobilization and wartime mission of the Department of Defense. You may be required to maintain specific medical immunizations and stay on duty during emergency situations.
Can I apply if I am not a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Is drug testing required?
Yes, as this position involves patient safety and sensitive operations, drug testing is mandatory.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system responsible for delivering medical services across the Department of Defense. By supporting uniformed service members, retirees, and their families, the DHA ensures medical readiness anytime and anywhere. Working at Madigan Army Medical Center means being part of a strategic team committed to innovation, safety, and patient-centered care.