Advance Your Career: Inpatient Mental Health Nursing at the Cincinnati VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Nurse seeking a career that blends clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Cincinnati is looking for passionate individuals to join our Inpatient Mental Health unit. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide world-class, recovery-oriented care to the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Inpatient Mental Health RN, your duties are diverse and rewarding. You will:
- Promote personal growth and recovery through psychiatric-mental health nursing.
- Participate in interdisciplinary treatment teams to develop personalized care plans.
- Utilize therapeutic communication and de-escalation techniques during patient interactions.
- Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment through consistent environmental rounds.
- Document nursing assessments and patient observations with precision.
Nurse Grade Comparison
| Grade Level | Education Requirement | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Lvl 1 | ADN or Diploma | Fundamental care, skill development |
| Nurse I, Lvl 3 | ADN/BSN + Experience | Proficient practice, self-directed goals |
| Nurse II | BSN/MSN + Experience | Leadership and holistic care improvement |
| Nurse III | MSN/PhD + Experience | Management of complex care strategies |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must be a graduate of an accredited nursing program, possess a full and unrestricted license, and meet basic English proficiency standards. The role involves physical requirements such as standing for long periods, bending, and the ability to lift up to 35 pounds following safety protocols.
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive annual salary range of $85,144 to $149,695, commensurate with your nursing experience, education, and clinical proficiency.
Benefits
- Paid Time Off: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave, plus 11 federal holidays.
- Insurance: Extensive options for health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- Retirement: Excellent federal retirement pension and 401(k) matching program.
Application Tips
Ensure your application clearly highlights your experience with the five VA practice dimensions. Use the provided VA resume template to ensure your qualifications are captured accurately by our hiring system. Double-check all documentation before the September 9, 2026, deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a BSN for this role? A: No, an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing is acceptable, though higher education levels may qualify you for a higher grade level.
Q: Is there a probationary period? A: Yes, employees may be required to serve a probationary period as part of the federal hiring process.
Join us in Cincinnati to make a lasting difference in the lives of our Veterans. Apply today to start a career that offers both professional challenge and deep personal fulfillment.
Why This Nurse Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on those who served—join the Cincinnati VA as an Inpatient Mental Health Nurse and advance your clinical career in a supportive, whole-health environment.
Nurse Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to join the Inpatient Mental Health unit in Cincinnati, Ohio. This role focuses on providing compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care to Veterans, emphasizing recovery, safety, and holistic well-being within a multidisciplinary team. Whether you are beginning your nursing career or are an experienced professional looking to specialize in mental health, this position offers a pathway to professional growth while honoring the heroes of our nation.
Requirements for Nurse
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered if qualified U.S. citizens are unavailable).
- Active, full, unrestricted nursing license from any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Degree from an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must be able to perform physical duties including lifting up to 35 lbs, bending, and kneeling.
- Ability to meet the English language proficiency requirement.
Preferred Qualifications for Nurse
- One or more years of experience specifically in the Mental Health nursing field.
- Proven competency in therapeutic communication and de-escalation techniques.
- Experience working in a multidisciplinary clinical team setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Generous Paid Time Off: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave annually.
- ✓11 Paid Federal Holidays.
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health, Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance programs.
- ✓Strong Retirement Planning: Federal pension plan plus a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Regular salary increases and performance-based award opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nurse Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume using the VA clinical template for the restricted upload.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application link.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including your nursing license and DD-214 if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your nursing experience in terms of the five core VA dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Do not skip the questionnaire; it is a vital part of the evaluation process.
- Check your USAJOBS account status regularly for updates after submission.
- If you have questions regarding the application process or need an alternative submission method, reach out to the agency contact provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)?
Yes, individuals with an ADN or Diploma in Nursing are eligible, though the entry grade level will depend on your education and professional nursing experience.
What is the shift structure for this position?
This is a full-time, inpatient position featuring 12-hour shifts running from 7:00 am to 7:30 pm, covering varying days of the week.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all selected applicants must undergo a background and security investigation, along with a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. In Cincinnati, we advocate for a "Whole Health" system of care, which empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being. By joining our team, you become part of an interdisciplinary network committed to healing relationships and providing exceptional care.