Advance Your Nursing Career with the VA Puget Sound Health Care System
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a highly skilled Registered Nurse (RN) to join the Ambulatory Surgery team. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide critical pre-operative and procedural care to those who have bravely served our country. If you are a compassionate clinician dedicated to evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration, this position offers the competitive rewards and professional fulfillment that come with a federal nursing career.
Job Responsibilities
As an Ambulatory Surgery RN, your daily duties are essential to surgical safety and patient comfort. Key responsibilities include:
- Pre-operative Care: Conducting nursing assessments, verifying H&P documentation, and obtaining surgical consents.
- Clinical Procedures: Starting IVs, performing venipuncture, and assisting with peripheral nerve blocks.
- Coordination: Ensuring all lab work and diagnostic testing is prepared and communicated to the surgical team.
- Patient Education: Providing clear discharge instructions to patients and their families.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate and timely records in our Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required, with limited exceptions for non-citizens.
- Education: Graduate of an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Licensure: A current, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state or territory.
- Physical: Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Salary and Grade Overview
Salaries for VA nursing positions are based on education, experience, and the specific grade level achieved. The current pay range for this position is $87,285 to $159,605 per year. Grade placement (Nurse I, II, or III) is determined during the interview and review process based on your specialized nursing background.
| Level | Experience/Education Requirements |
|---|---|
| Nurse I | Associate/Diploma to BSN with 0-2+ years experience |
| Nurse II | BSN/MSN with 1-2+ years specialized experience |
| Nurse III | Advanced degree with 2+ years specialized experience |
Benefits
Joining the federal workforce provides an industry-leading total rewards package, including:
- Paid Time Off: A total of 50 days leave per year (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- Retirement: Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% employer contribution.
- Insurance: Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance options that continue into retirement.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Quantify your experience. When describing your nursing background, address the five VA dimensions of practice: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Documentation: Ensure all certifications, licenses, and transcripts are attached to your application before the submission deadline.
- Use the VA Resources: Review the official VA Qualification Standards to understand how your experience maps to the grade level you are targeting.
Providing care to Veterans is one of the most rewarding paths a nurse can take. If you meet the qualifications and are looking to grow within a premier healthcare organization, apply to the VA Puget Sound Health Care System before September 14, 2026.
Why This Registered Nurse - Ambulatory Surgery Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the VA Puget Sound Health Care System as an Ambulatory Surgery Registered Nurse.
Registered Nurse - Ambulatory Surgery Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to join our Ambulatory Surgery team in Seattle, Washington. In this pivotal role, you will provide high-quality pre-operative and procedural care to Veterans, ensuring they receive the specialized attention and clinical support necessary for successful surgical outcomes. You will work within an interdisciplinary environment that prioritizes evidence-based practice, patient safety, and compassionate care.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Ambulatory Surgery
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available)
- English language proficiency in written and spoken communication
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state, territory, or district
- Completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Subject to background and security investigation
- Must pass a drug screening for designated positions
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
- Annual seasonal influenza vaccination
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Ambulatory Surgery
- At least one year of professional experience in Ambulatory Care or Medical-Surgical nursing
- Demonstrated knowledge of Perioperative nursing standards
- Proven competency in intravenous (IV) insertion and venipuncture
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases
- ✓Generous paid time off (26 days annual, 13 days sick, and 11 paid federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive federal retirement plan including pension and 401(k) matching
- ✓Extensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance options
- ✓Career development and mentorship opportunities
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Ambulatory Surgery Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Ambulatory Surgery Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and requirements.
- Prepare your long-form resume or CV and required supporting documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of September 14, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your nursing experience to map against the required five dimensions of practice.
- Attach all required documents, including licenses and transcripts, to avoid disqualification.
- Verify your nursing program accreditation before applying.
- If claiming Veterans' preference, include your DD-214 and any necessary SF-15 documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected work schedule for this position?
This position follows a Monday through Friday schedule, with shift options typically ranging from 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM or 5:30 AM – 2:00 PM.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives and permanent change of station (PCS) costs are not authorized for this position.
Is telework an option?
*A: No, this is an onsite clinical position and does not offer telework or virtual options.*
How will I know if my application is being considered?
*A: You will receive an automated email confirmation upon submission. Following the announcement closing, HR will review your qualifications and notify you via email regarding your referral status.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served. As part of the Veterans Health Administration, the VA Puget Sound Health Care System provides world-class care to Veterans in the Pacific Northwest. Our facility values professional development, holistic care, and a safe, supportive environment for all staff.