Launch Your Nursing Career with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a dedicated nurse looking to make a meaningful impact? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently inviting applications for a Practical Nurse (Family Medicine) position at the Weed Army Community Hospital in Fort Irwin, California. This is a unique opportunity to serve the military community while advancing your professional career in a structured, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Practical Nurse, you will be the backbone of the Family Medicine clinic. Your daily tasks will include:
- Patient Intake: Identifying complaints and documenting vital information.
- Clinical Support: Taking accurate vital signs and assisting physicians with diagnostic procedures.
- Behavioral Health: Performing initial behavioral health screenings.
- Facility Management: Preparing procedure rooms and ensuring equipment is sterile and available.
- Immunizations: Screening records and administering immunizations per established safety protocols.
Comparison: Standard vs. Federal Nursing Roles
| Feature | Standard Private Sector Nurse | Federal Practical Nurse (DHA) |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Varies by Employer | Comprehensive Federal Package |
| Career Growth | Dependent on Facility | Structured Federal Advancement |
| Patient Focus | General Public | Military Members & Families |
| Mission | Patient Satisfaction | Combat Readiness & Mission Support |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several key criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Licensure: You must hold a current license to practice as a practical or vocational nurse (or have applied for one).
- Experience: At least one year of hands-on nursing experience in a supervised medical facility.
- Documentation: Your resume must clearly reflect your relevant clinical duties.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $47,490 to $61,738 per year, reflecting the locality pay for the Fort Irwin area. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package that often includes federal health insurance, a generous retirement savings plan (Thrift Savings Plan), and significant paid time off.
Application Tips for Success
- Mind the Resume Limit: Keep your resume under two pages; any longer and it will be removed from consideration.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly list your job title, employer, and total hours worked per week for every position held.
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the final hour. Documents may take up to an hour to scan for viruses upon upload.
If you are a qualified Practical Nurse seeking a stable career with an honorable mission, we encourage you to apply. This position at Fort Irwin offers the chance to grow professionally while supporting those who protect our nation. Review the full requirements and submit your application package before the deadline to be considered for this vital role.
Why This Practical Nurse (Family Medicine) Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Weed Army Community Hospital as a Practical Nurse and provide essential care to those who serve our nation.
Practical Nurse (Family Medicine) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a committed Practical Nurse to support Family Medicine services at Fort Irwin, California. This role is pivotal in delivering high-quality healthcare to service members, retirees, and their families. As an integral member of our healthcare team, you will assist in clinical procedures, monitor patient health, and ensure the seamless operation of medical services. This position is open to the public and offers a competitive salary range and potential incentives for qualified candidates.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Family Medicine)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Current, active license 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, clinic, or supervised medical facility.
- Ability to perform clinical tasks such as measuring vital signs, administering immunizations, and documenting patient records.
- Compliance with physical/medical requirements, including potential immunization requirements for emergency essential status.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Family Medicine)
- Prior experience working within a military or federal health facility.
- Demonstrated ability to function effectively in a fast-paced Family Medicine or primary care setting.
- Strong communication skills for patient interviewing and behavioral health screening.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal government health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Retirement savings plans (TSP).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a dynamic, mission-focused healthcare environment.
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Family Medicine) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Family Medicine) Job
- Log in to or create your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire through the application link.
- Upload all required documentation, including your nursing license and transcripts if applicable.
- Verify that your application is complete and submit by the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience, including hours worked per week and specific dates (month/year).
- Keep your resume under the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information from supplemental documents before uploading.
- Submit early to account for potential technical issues or file virus scanning times.
- Double-check that your license is attached, as this is a non-negotiable basic requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?
No, for this specific position, you must meet the qualification requirements using professional experience alone.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required for this position; however, the role is designated as non-sensitive/low risk.
What happens if I don't have my license yet?
If you have completed your training, you may be appointed subject to obtaining your license during your probationary period.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: A recruitment or relocation incentive may be authorized for highly qualified candidates, but the government does not pay for PCS moves in this specific case.*
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this role is located on-site at the Weed Army Community Hospital and requires physical presence.*
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated health care system that serves more than 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. By delivering world-class medical, dental, and pharmacy programs, the DHA ensures that our military forces remain ready and healthy anytime, anywhere. Joining the team at Fort Irwin means becoming part of a legacy of excellence and community-focused care.