Advance Your Nursing Career: Care Manager Role at the VA Medical Center
Are you looking to transition into a role that combines clinical excellence with meaningful advocacy? The LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor is currently seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse (RN) to serve as a Care Manager Care Coordinator. This position is a cornerstone of the facility’s commitment to providing world-class, whole-health care to those who have served our nation.
About the Agency: Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to our Veterans. As an organization, the VHA practices a "Whole Health" system of care, which empowers both patients and staff to focus on wellness, healing relationships, and community integration. Joining the VA means becoming part of a mission-driven team that values integrity, commitment, and excellence in healthcare.
Job Responsibilities
As an Outpatient Staff Registered Nurse in this capacity, you will manage patient transitions, facilitate patient education, and oversee the care of patients as they move through the healthcare continuum. Key duties include:
- Care Coordination: Guiding patients through their treatment plans, ensuring they receive seamless support.
- Patient Advocacy: Acting as a bridge between the Veteran, their family, and the interdisciplinary clinical team.
- Leadership: Mentoring licensed vocational nurses and nursing assistants to maintain high clinical standards.
- Quality Improvement: Helping to direct nursing education and contributing to outcome-based utilization reviews.
Qualifications
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet several fundamental standards:
- Education: A graduate of a nursing program accredited by ACEN or CCNE.
- Licensure: A full, active, and unrestricted RN license from any US State or territory.
- Basic Requirements: English language proficiency and possession of an active BLS certification.
Grade Level Comparison Table
| Level | Education Requirement | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN or Diploma + 1 Yr Exp | None (if BSN holder) |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN + 2 Yrs or BSN + 1 Yr | Varies by Degree |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 Yrs or MSN + 1 Yr | Specialized Nursing Experience |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2 Yrs or Doctoral + 1 Yr | Significant Specialized Exp |
Salary and Benefits Overview
The VA offers a robust "Total Rewards" package designed to support your long-term success and financial well-being. The salary range for this position is $81,479 – $139,574 annually, with potential for regular salary increases based on performance and tenure.
Key Perks Include:
- Generous Leave: 50 days of total paid time off (Annual, Sick, and Holidays).
- Retirement Security: Federal pension plan and a 401K-style plan (TSP) with 5% agency matching.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Full selection of Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Application Tips
- Be Comprehensive: When describing your nursing experience, ensure you address the five dimensions of VHA practice: Practice, Veteran-driven care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Documentation is Key: Attach your transcripts and license copies early. Missing documents are the primary reason for application disqualification.
- Use the VA Questionnaire: The application requires a specific questionnaire. Ensure your answers align with your resume’s factual history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I have foreign nursing education? A: Foreign degrees must be formally evaluated for equivalency before they can be considered for credit.
Q: Is there a probationary period? A: Yes, there is a 2-year probationary period to evaluate performance and conduct.
Working as a Care Manager Care Coordinator at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have sacrificed for our country. If you have the clinical skill and the heart for service, we encourage you to apply and join a team that prioritizes whole-person healing.
Why This Registered Nurse - Case Manager Care Coordinator Job Matters
Transform your nursing career by joining the front lines of Veteran care in Ann Arbor—where every shift honors those who served our nation.
Registered Nurse - Case Manager Care Coordinator Job Overview
The LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center is seeking a compassionate, detail-oriented Registered Nurse (RN) to join our team as a Care Manager Care Coordinator. In this role, you will be the bridge for Veterans transitioning through the healthcare continuum, ensuring they receive evidence-based, whole-health support. This is a unique opportunity to lead patient-centered outcomes while working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment dedicated to clinical excellence.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Case Manager Care Coordinator
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license from any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Graduate of an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (AHA or MTN).
- Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Participation in the annual influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Case Manager Care Coordinator
- Proven experience in referral or consultation management.
- Strong critical thinking and self-directed goal-setting skills.
- Previous experience in outpatient care coordination and patient transition planning.
- Experience directing interdisciplinary teams or nursing staff.
- Advanced degree in nursing (MSN or higher) for upper-level placements.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“50 days of combined paid time off (26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 federal holidays).
- âś“Federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- âś“Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching.
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
- âś“Opportunity for regular salary increases and performance-based awards.
- âś“Professional development and clinical growth opportunities.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Registered Nurse - Case Manager Care Coordinator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Case Manager Care Coordinator Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy questionnaire to ensure eligibility.
- Prepare your resume and gather all required documentation, including transcripts and licenses.
- Complete the online application and upload all necessary forms.
- Submit your application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Clearly highlight how your experience maps to the five VA dimensions of nursing (Practice, Veteran Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Ensure your BLS certification is from an approved provider (AHA/MTN) and is valid before your start date.
- If you are a current federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 is attached and clearly shows your time-in-grade.
- Double-check your submission before the deadline; once the window closes, no changes are accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time position with a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, 07:30 AM to 04:00 PM.
Can I work remotely or telework?
No, this is not a virtual position, and it is not eligible for telework.
What happens if I don't have my nursing license yet?
Candidates who meet educational requirements but lack current licensure may be considered for a Graduate Nurse Technician (GNT) 120-day temporary appointment while pursuing licensure.
Is the salary fixed?
The salary range is $81,479 to $139,574. The final salary determination is based on the applicant’s education, scope of practice, and years of specialized nursing experience.