Advance Your Nursing Career: ICU Registered Nurse at the Ann Arbor VA
Are you a dedicated critical care professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a skilled Registered Nurse (RN) for the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide high-intensity care to those who have served our country while enjoying the stability and comprehensive benefits of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As an ICU RN, you will function as a self-directed professional, managing complex client situations with deliberate planning. Your daily duties will include:
- Providing expert care to acutely or critically ill patients.
- Utilizing advanced invasive and non-invasive monitoring technology.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes.
- Educating patients and families on self-management and care processes.
- Maintaining rigorous standards for evidence-based practice and quality improvement.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several federal criteria:
- Licensure: A current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license.
- Education: Graduation from an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Proficiency: Fluent in written and spoken English.
- Certification: Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the AHA or MTN.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a background check, physical exam, and drug screening.
Salary and Grade Overview
Candidates will be evaluated based on the five core dimensions of VHA nursing: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice/Research.
| Position Level | Education Requirement Example | Experience Expectation |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | Entry Level |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN + 2 Years or MSN | Proficiency in complex cases |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 Years or MSN + 1 Year | Holistic leadership |
The salary range for this position is $81,749 to $138,574 per year. Final salary is determined by experience and education level.
Benefits
The VA provides a "Total Rewards" package that is hard to beat in the private sector:
- Time Off: 50 days of paid time off per year (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays).
- Retirement: A dual-track system featuring a federal pension and a 401(k) plan with agency contributions.
- Insurance: Access to comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans that can often be carried into retirement.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly demonstrate your experience in the five dimensions of nursing. Avoid vague terminology.
- Use the Template: Download and utilize the standard VA clinical resume document available in the job portal.
- Double-check Documents: Ensure your transcripts and licenses are attached to prevent processing delays.
Serving our Veterans is a profound honor. If you have the critical care expertise and the dedication to provide high-quality, evidence-based nursing care, we invite you to apply for this ICU position in Ann Arbor today.
Why This Registered Nurse - Icu Job Matters
Elevate your nursing career in the high-stakes environment of the ICU while providing life-changing care to our nation's heroes.
Registered Nurse - Icu Job Overview
The LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is seeking dedicated Registered Nurses to join our Intensive Care Unit (ICU) team. As a vital member of the Inpatient Nursing Service, you will provide critical, evidence-based care to Veterans facing acute and complex health challenges. This role offers the chance to work within a Whole Health System that prioritizes both patient wellness and professional excellence.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Icu
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license from any U.S. state, territory, or district
- Graduate of an accredited professional nursing school (ACEN or CCNE)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Pre-employment physical examination
- Drug screening for testing-designated positions
- Background and security investigation
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (American Heart Association or Military Training Network)
- Annual seasonal influenza vaccination
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Icu
- 1-2 years of clinical experience in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- Demonstrated proficiency in complex patient assessment and critical care monitoring technology
- Experience with evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular performance-based increases
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans
- ✓Generous leave: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Robust retirement program including a federal pension and 401(k) with agency matching
- ✓Professional development and continuing education support
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Icu Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Icu Job
- Prepare your resume and ensure you have all required documentation (transcripts, licenses, DD-214 if applicable)
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Submit your full application package, including the standard Clinical Resume document and any supplemental materials
- Ensure your submission is complete by the closing date of September 8, 2026
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; avoid making assumptions about how your experience aligns with the five dimensions of VHA nursing.
- Use the provided standard Clinical Resume template to ensure your application meets formatting expectations.
- Verify that your SF-50 clearly demonstrates time-in-grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Monitor your email for status notifications throughout the hiring process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is previous ICU experience required?
While it is not a strict mandatory requirement, 1-2 years of previous ICU experience is highly preferred for this role.
What is the expected schedule for this position?
This is a night shift position. Schedules generally include 7:30 pm - 8:00 am (6 shifts) and 11:30 pm - 8:00 am (1 shift), with rotations for alternate weekends and holidays.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
Yes, U.S. citizenship is required. Non-citizens may only be appointed in cases where it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
Can I use an online BLS certification?
No, online certifications are not accepted. You must complete an American Heart Association or Military Training Network course.
What is the shift schedule?
This is a night shift position with alternating weekend and holiday requirements.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We operate under a Whole Health System model, which empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being. By joining our team, you are not just an employee; you are a vital partner in the healing process, working in an environment that values clinical excellence, compassion, and innovation.