Supporting Heroes: Become a Nursing Assistant with the Veterans Health Administration

Are you looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with deep personal satisfaction? The Veterans Health Administration (VA) in Portland, Oregon, is currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Nursing Assistant to join our Inpatient and Emergency Services Division. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing the world-class care our nation's Veterans deserve.

Job Responsibilities

As a Nursing Assistant, your primary objective is to assist in the care and recovery of Veterans. Under the direct supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), your duties will evolve based on your grade level (GS-3 to GS-5). Core responsibilities include:

Patient Hygiene and Comfort: Assisting with daily living activities, including mobility, nutrition, and personal hygiene.
Clinical Support: Utilizing medical equipment for procedures such as blood glucose monitoring, specimen collection, and bladder scans.
Patient Monitoring: Observing changes in a patient's physical or emotional state and reporting them immediately to the clinical team.
Emergency Response: Recognizing urgent situations and providing basic life support or crisis assistance while waiting for further intervention.
Communication: Acting as a primary contact for patients and their families, ensuring they feel heard and supported throughout their care journey.

Comparison: Growth Potential

Feature	GS-3 Entry Level	GS-5 Full Performance
Supervision	Close/Direct	General/Assisted
Complexity	Routine/Basic	Comprehensive/Emergent
Mentorship	Learning	Acting as a Preceptor
Patient Interaction	Guided	Independent/Supportive

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate basic clinical proficiency and meet federal employment standards. Key requirements include:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
Education/Experience: A mix of clinical experience and/or education is required. Entry-level (GS-3) requires basic training or six months of experience; higher grades require progressively responsible clinical assignments.
Background: All candidates must pass a drug test and a comprehensive security investigation.
Physical Standards: You must be able to meet the physical requirements of the role and participate in the annual influenza vaccination program.

Salary and Benefits

Working for the federal government offers financial stability and an unmatched benefit package. The salary for this position ranges from $42,102 to $68,741 per year, depending on your experience and qualifications.

Comprehensive Benefits:

Generous PTO: Up to 50 days of total leave (annual, sick, and holidays).
Retirement: A robust federal pension and 401k-style plan (Thrift Savings Plan) with agency matching.
Insurance: Options for federal health, dental, and vision insurance that can follow you into retirement.
Work-Life Balance: Access to paid parental leave and childcare subsidy programs for qualifying families.

Application Tips

Applying to the VA can be a detailed process. To ensure your application stands out:

Use the Template: Always download the official Clinical Resume document linked in the announcement. It is specifically formatted for our systems.
Be Explicit: Do not assume the hiring team knows your skills. Detail every clinical procedure you have performed, even in volunteer settings.
Review Before Submitting: Double-check that your transcripts, licenses, and SF-50 forms (if a current federal employee) are attached.

If you are ready to apply your nursing skills to a mission that matters, the Portland VA is the place for you. We offer a culture of respect, continuous learning, and pride. Apply today to help us care for those who have served our country.

Why This Nursing Assistant - (Inpatient And Emergency Services Division) Iesd Job Matters

Launch a meaningful healthcare career with the VA, providing dedicated, compassionate care to the heroes who served our nation.

Nursing Assistant - (Inpatient And Emergency Services Division) Iesd Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Nursing Assistant to join the Inpatient and Emergency Services Division in Portland, Oregon. This role is pivotal in supporting our mission to provide high-quality, whole-health care to Veterans. You will work under the direction of licensed healthcare professionals, assisting with daily living activities, treatment plans, and essential patient monitoring to ensure the comfort and recovery of those we serve.

Requirements for Nursing Assistant - (Inpatient And Emergency Services Division) Iesd

Must be a United States Citizen.
Must be proficient in both written and spoken English.
Completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
Subject to a security and background investigation.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
Successful completion of a mandatory urinalysis screening for drug use.
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Ability to complete an online onboarding process and provide valid identification.

Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant - (Inpatient And Emergency Services Division) Iesd

Six months of general experience in a nursing assistant or healthcare role.
Completion of specialized training courses related to the nursing assistant occupation.
For GS-4/GS-5 levels: Experience or education demonstrating advanced nursing care knowledge, including patient observation and emergency intervention skills.
Demonstrated ability to function as a preceptor for new clinical staff.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with periodic pay increases.
✓37-50 days of paid time off (annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays).
✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs.
✓Federal pension plan and 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with employer matching.
✓Generous paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.

💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant - (Inpatient And Emergency Services Division) Iesd Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Nursing Assistant - (Inpatient And Emergency Services Division) Iesd Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
Prepare your supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50 if applicable.
Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing portal link.
Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly addresses the KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) listed in the announcement.
Be specific about your clinical experience, including volunteer work or internships.
Use the mandatory one-page Clinical Resume document template to avoid disqualification.
Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS portal.
Reach out to the listed agency contact if you require an alternative application method due to a disability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I haven't finished my certification yet?

Yes, applicants pending completion of requirements may be referred, but you must meet all qualifications before your formal appointment.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an onsite position located in Portland, Oregon, requiring direct patient interaction.

What is the shift structure for this role?

The position involves various tours, including 7pm-7:30am and 7am-7:30pm, with rotating days off including weekends and holidays.

What is the trial period mentioned?

New federal employees are typically required to complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance, conduct, and fitness for the role.

Is shift work required?

Yes, as an inpatient/emergency role, you will be expected to work rotating shifts, including weekends, nights, and holidays.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As an employee of the Veterans Health Administration, you become part of a massive, supportive team that prioritizes whole-health care. We believe in fostering an environment where clinical staff can grow, learn, and truly impact the lives of the men and women who have protected our country.