Launch Your Nursing Career at Madigan Army Medical Center
Are you a dedicated nursing professional looking to advance your career while serving those who serve our country? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a highly qualified Practical Nurse to join the prestigious team at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. This unique role within the operating room and ambulatory surgery setting offers an unparalleled opportunity to utilize your skills in a high-stakes, rewarding environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Practical Nurse (OR), your duties will be diverse and critical to patient safety. Responsibilities include:
- Patient Education: Instructing patients and families on preoperative and postoperative protocols, including medication management.
- Clinical Support: Assisting physicians during diagnostic examinations and surgical procedures.
- Monitoring: Observing patient conditions and updating care plans to ensure optimal outcomes.
- Collaboration: Assisting with the training and onboarding of newly assigned medical personnel.
Requirements
You must meet several key criteria to be considered for this role:
- Licensure: You must hold a valid practical or vocational nursing license in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: One year of professional experience in a medical or nursing facility is required.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year Specialized Experience |
| Licensure | Current Practical Nurse License |
| Education | Not Substitutable for Experience |
| Residency | Tacoma, WA (On-site) |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $66,453 to $86,388 per year. Beyond the paycheck, federal employees enjoy an extensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement options, and the possibility of recruitment incentives for top-tier candidates.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is clear, concise, and no longer than two pages. Use the USAJOBS online portal to carefully complete the questionnaire, and ensure all supporting documents, specifically your nursing license, are clearly attached.
Serving as a Practical Nurse at Madigan Army Medical Center is a career-defining opportunity. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to support our military community, submit your application package before September 13, 2026.
Why This Practical Nurse (Or) Job Matters
Join the dedicated team at Madigan Army Medical Center and play a vital role in patient care as a Practical Nurse within our specialized surgical units.
Practical Nurse (Or) Job Overview
Madigan Army Medical Center is seeking a skilled Practical Nurse to join the Directorate of Nursing in Tacoma, Washington. This position is located within the Ambulatory Procedure Unit, Same Day Surgery, and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit. As a key member of the healthcare team, you will support diagnostic examinations, manage surgical equipment, and provide critical preoperative and postoperative instruction to patients and their families. This is a Direct Hire solicitation open to the public, offering a competitive federal salary range and the potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Or)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current licensure to practice as a practical or vocational nurse in a U.S. State, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- One year of specialized nursing experience in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or medical facility.
- Ability to demonstrate practical knowledge of human body structure and sterile techniques.
- Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Drug testing requirement.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Or)
- Proven expertise in monitoring perioperative vital signs.
- Hands-on experience with specialized operating room equipment.
- Strong communication skills for patient and family instruction regarding medications and self-care.
- History of training or mentoring junior nursing personnel.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary with Locality Pay
- ✓Potential Recruitment or Relocation Incentives
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health and Life Insurance
- ✓Retirement Savings Plan (Thrift Savings Plan)
- ✓Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
- ✓Professional Development Opportunities
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Or) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Or) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, detailing relevant experience and hours worked.
- Gather your nursing license or certification documentation.
- Complete the required online questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
- Upload all supporting documents, including cover letter and license, ensuring they pass the virus scan.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline of September 13, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the employer name, job title, and specific start/end dates (month and year).
- Quantify your experience by stating the number of hours worked per week for each role.
- Avoid acronyms and technical jargon; use plain language to describe your skills.
- Double-check your application for missing documents; incomplete packages will be automatically disqualified.
- Submit early to allow time for the automated virus scan process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a college degree required for this position?
No, this position requires specific practical nursing licensure and one year of specialized experience. Education cannot be substituted for the experience requirement for this role.
Can I negotiate my salary?
Salary negotiation may be available for candidates who are new to the Federal government service.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Per the job announcement, resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be removed from consideration.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: Relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates, though Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not covered.
What is the work schedule?
*A: Details regarding shift requirements will be discussed during the interview process, typically aligned with surgery center hours.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
Madigan Army Medical Center is a cornerstone of the Defense Health Agency, providing world-class medical services to uniformed service members, veterans, and their families. As part of a vast integrated healthcare system, our professionals are committed to readiness and excellence. Working here means being part of a strategic partner that impacts the lives of millions.