Lead Surgical Excellence: Operating Room Nurse Manager at VA North Texas
The VA North Texas Health Care System (VANTHCS) is seeking a dynamic, experienced leader to fill the role of Operating Room Nurse Manager. This is a high-impact, mission-driven leadership position located in Dallas, Texas, providing a unique opportunity to shape the surgical experience for veterans. If you are ready to transition your clinical expertise into a role that balances complex administration with high-level patient care, this position offers the rewards of federal service and the chance to lead a team of 70 FTEs.
Job Responsibilities
As an OR Nurse Manager, you will be the cornerstone of the surgical service line. Your daily responsibilities include:
- Operations Management: Managing the day-to-day workflow of the OR, including staffing, budgeting, and logistical coordination.
- Leadership: Interviewing, hiring, and mentoring staff across 13 diverse surgical specialties.
- Quality Oversight: Ensuring compliance with national benchmarks, regulatory standards, and evidence-based care delivery models.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Coordinating with pharmacy, anesthesia, logistics, and surgical teams to ensure safe, equitable care.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline federal standards:
- Graduation from an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing program.
- An active, full, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. jurisdiction.
- Demonstrated English language proficiency.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical and security background check.
Grade Determination Comparison
| Grade/Level | Education Requirements | Experience Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I | ADN/Diploma | Entry-level competence |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 yrs / MSN + 1 yr | Holistic care & leadership |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2 yrs / Doctoral + 1 yr | Advanced management & creative approaches |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal pay range between $78,714 and $189,937 per year. The final salary determination is based on the applicant’s specific nursing dimensions, education, and years of specialized experience.
Benefits
Working for the VA provides a comprehensive total rewards package designed for professional and financial well-being:
- Debt Relief: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 toward student loans.
- Paid Time Off: 50 days of combined annual, sick, and federal holiday leave.
- Insurance: Extensive options for health, dental, vision, and long-term care.
- Retirement: Dual-tier system featuring a traditional federal pension and a 401K-style plan with employer contributions.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: In your resume, use metrics. Instead of saying you managed staff, detail the number of employees you supervised and the budget scale.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure all transcripts, certifications (like CNOR), and license documents are clearly scanned and uploaded.
- Dimensions: Familiarize yourself with the five dimensions of nursing (Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice) as these are used to score your candidacy.
The VA North Texas Health Care System offers a rare opportunity to combine clinical leadership with veteran advocacy. With a competitive salary, the EDRP student loan incentive, and a commitment to career longevity, this OR Nurse Manager role is an exceptional career move for qualified nursing professionals.
Why This Registered Nurse (Operating Room Nurse Manager)-Edrp Approved Job Matters
Lead a high-impact surgical team at one of the nation's busiest VA medical centers while advancing your nursing career with up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
Registered Nurse (Operating Room Nurse Manager)-Edrp Approved Job Overview
The VA North Texas Health Care System is seeking a dedicated and experienced Registered Nurse to serve as an Operating Room Nurse Manager. This critical leadership role oversees 70 full-time equivalent employees, managing daily operations, staffing, and clinical excellence across 13 diverse surgical specialties. If you are a clinical expert passionate about veteran care and evidence-based practice, this is your opportunity to drive quality outcomes in a major research and teaching environment located in Dallas, Texas.
Requirements for Registered Nurse (Operating Room Nurse Manager)-Edrp Approved
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens if necessary).
- English language proficiency (written and spoken).
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing program.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state, territory, or district.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must undergo a background and security investigation.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse (Operating Room Nurse Manager)-Edrp Approved
- Minimum of 3-5 years of recent, direct hands-on Operating Room staff experience.
- Two years of recent direct hospital management experience as a Nurse Manager or Assistant Nurse Manager.
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree.
- Current Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) certification.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Federal 401K retirement plan with employer matching.
- ✓Federal pension plan.
- ✓50 days of paid time off per year (26 days annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Potential for performance-based awards and regular salary increases.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse (Operating Room Nurse Manager)-Edrp Approved Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse (Operating Room Nurse Manager)-Edrp Approved Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full position questionnaire to preview requirements.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (transcripts, licenses, veteran proof).
- Complete the online application and occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 11, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your nursing experience against the five core dimensions: practice, veteran/patient-driven care, leadership, professional development, and evidence-based practice.
- Do not assume the recruiter knows your background—be specific about your management duties.
- Double-check that your school accreditation matches the required ACEN or CCNE standards.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD-214 is legible and clearly uploaded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EDRP?
The Education Debt Reduction Program is a student loan reimbursement program for eligible VA employees. This position is approved for this program, with potential awards up to $200,000.
Is this a virtual position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Dallas VA Medical Center requiring 24/7 accountability for unit operations.
How is my salary determined?
Salary is determined by a combination of your education, professional nursing experience, and the scope of your previous roles based on VA pay scale guidelines.
What are the work hours?
The position is a traditional Monday through Friday, 7:00am–3:30pm schedule, though the manager remains responsible for the 24/7 operation of the unit.
Can I apply if my degree is from a foreign school?
Yes, but you must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency and ensure your degree meets accreditation standards.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
VANTHCS is one of the largest and busiest VA systems in the nation. Operating from a 84-acre corporate headquarters in Dallas, the system provides a continuum of care across several clinics and centers. Through partnerships with top-tier research institutions like UT Southwestern, the VA North Texas system remains at the forefront of medical research and clinical innovation.