Advance Your Nursing Career: Outpatient Mental Health Opportunities at the San Diego VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Nurse (RN) looking to pivot your career toward a mission-driven environment? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in San Diego is currently recruiting for an Outpatient Mental Health Registered Nurse. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
The Outpatient Mental Health RN plays a central role in patient care. Your responsibilities will include:
- Nursing Process Management: You will be accountable for the full scope of nursing care, including planning, assessment, and intervention.
- Suicide Risk Prevention: Conduct essential assessments (CSSRS) and suicide safety planning. You will work closely with providers and suicide prevention counselors to mitigate risk.
- Clinical Liaison: Facilitate warm handoffs between mental health clinics and provide care coordination for Veterans transitioning through the continuum of care.
- Patient Education: Support self-management goals and educate families on effective treatment and recovery strategies.
- Quality Improvement: Participate in unit-level quality audits and Safe Patient Handling initiatives.
Requirements
To qualify, you must possess an active, unrestricted RN license from a U.S. state or territory. You must also hold a degree from an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE). Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English and be able to pass a pre-employment physical and drug test.
Grade Level Comparison
| Level | Experience Requirement | Education Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | None | ADN or Diploma |
| Nurse I, Level II | 1 year specialized | ADN or Diploma or BSN |
| Nurse I, Level III | 2 years professional | ADN, BSN, or MSN |
| Nurse II | 2 years professional | BSN or higher |
| Nurse III | 2 years specialized | MSN or higher |
Salary and Benefits
Compensation at the VA is highly competitive, recognizing both your education and professional experience. Salaries for this position range from $103,980 to $188,494 annually.
Beyond base salary, the VA "Total Rewards" package includes:
- EDRP Eligibility: Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
- Paid Time Off: 50 days of combined annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401k-style thrift savings plans.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Do not simply list your job titles. Use your resume to describe your nursing practice across the five key dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Check Your Documents: Ensure you have your nursing license, official transcripts, and if applicable, your DD-214 for veteran's preference ready before you start the application.
- Follow Deadlines: Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on September 8, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
Working as an Outpatient Mental Health Nurse at the San Diego VA offers a unique blend of professional challenge, personal reward, and unparalleled federal benefits. If you are ready to make a lasting impact on the lives of Veterans, we encourage you to review the requirements and submit your application today.
Why This Registered Nurse Outpatient Mental Health Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the San Diego VA as an Outpatient Mental Health Registered Nurse.
Registered Nurse Outpatient Mental Health Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Registered Nurse (RN) to join the Veterans Health Administration in San Diego, California. This role is pivotal in delivering specialized, high-quality mental health nursing care within an outpatient setting. You will work within an interdisciplinary team to support Veterans through the full continuum of care, ensuring clinical excellence and holistic health outcomes.
Requirements for Registered Nurse Outpatient Mental Health
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be considered only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted registration as a professional nurse in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing school.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse Outpatient Mental Health
- 2-3 years of recent Mental Health nursing experience.
- 1-2 years of Case Management or Care Coordination experience.
- Active Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
- Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases.
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualifying student loans).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with agency matching up to 5%.
- ✓Generous PTO: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays annually.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse Outpatient Mental Health Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse Outpatient Mental Health Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job questionnaire to ensure you meet all criteria.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (licensure, transcripts, etc.).
- Submit your complete application package via the USAJOBS portal.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details how your nursing experience aligns with the five dimensions of VHA nursing (Practice, Veteran/Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Be specific regarding your mental health experience dates to ensure the hiring team can accurately determine your grade level.
- Don't forget to submit proof of your nursing license and any relevant veterans' preference documentation.
- Review your application thoroughly before submission, as we cannot make assumptions about your qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EDRP program?
The Education Debt Reduction Program provides student loan reimbursement for eligible health professionals. Participants can receive up to $200,000 over one to five years.
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is an in-person, outpatient position based at our facility in San Diego, California.
What if I have gaps in my employment?
The VA does not penalize applicants for periods of unemployment or financial hardship. Focus on the core competencies you have developed.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill the promise made by President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining the San Diego VA, you become part of a professional network dedicated to "Whole Health" care, ensuring that Veterans receive compassionate, evidence-based support in a supportive, multidisciplinary team environment.