Become a VA Nurse Educator: Advancing Excellence in Veteran Care
Are you a seasoned nurse with a passion for teaching? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering a unique opportunity to shape the next generation of clinical practice. The VA Northern California Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Nurse Educator to join their team in Martinez, California. This role is not just about clinical expertise—it is about leadership, mentorship, and driving the educational standards that ensure our nation’s veterans receive the highest level of care.
Why Choose the VA?
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Salary | Competitive, ranging from $114k - $216k |
| Retirement | Pension + 401(k) with 5% matching |
| Leave | 50 days of total paid time off annually |
| Insurance | Exceptional federal health, dental, and vision coverage |
Job Responsibilities
As a Nurse Educator, you will be the backbone of professional development within the clinical units. Your daily responsibilities include:
- Developing and coordinating interprofessional education programs.
- Managing competency tracking for specialized nursing areas.
- Assisting with the transition-to-practice programs for new hires.
- Collaborating with Nurse Managers to identify training gaps.
- Leading simulation training scenarios for high-risk, low-volume procedures.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-impact role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Licensure: You must hold a current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. State or territory.
- Education: A graduate degree from an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Language: Demonstrated proficiency in English.
- Suitability: Ability to pass a federal background check, drug screen, and pre-employment physical.
Salary Overview
This position offers a robust salary range of $114,899 to $216,077 per year. Your final salary placement will be determined by a review of your education, length of nursing practice, and overall clinical experience, measured against the VHA’s specific dimensions of nursing practice.
Application Tips
- Be Comprehensive: Use your resume to tell the full story of your nursing career. Do not leave the hiring team guessing about your experience.
- Highlight Mentorship: Since this is an education-focused role, emphasize any time you spent as a preceptor, mentor, or clinical instructor.
- Use Official Language: When describing your work, try to align your skills with the VHA's key practice dimensions.
Serving our veterans is a calling that rewards you with purpose, professional growth, and federal security. If you are ready to pivot from bedside care to clinical leadership, apply for the Nurse Educator position at the VA Northern California Health Care System today.
Why This Registered Nurse - Nurse Educator Job Matters
Elevate nursing standards and shape the future of veteran care as a Nurse Educator with the Department of Veterans Affairs in beautiful Northern California.
Registered Nurse - Nurse Educator Job Overview
The VA Northern California Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to serve as a Nurse Educator. In this pivotal role, you will lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of comprehensive education and competency management programs. You will be instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous learning, mentoring staff, and ensuring that our veterans receive world-class care through evidence-based practices.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Nurse Educator
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions may apply for non-citizens under specific policies).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license from a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Graduation from an accredited school of professional nursing (ACEN or CCNE).
- English language proficiency in written and spoken communication.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Compliance with mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination programs.
- Background and security investigation clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Nurse Educator
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master’s degree in Nursing or Education.
- Minimum of 3 years recent experience in an Operating Room (OR) setting.
- Experience as a clinical instructor, preceptor, or nurse educator (1+ year).
- Active BLS and ACLS certification (instructor level preferred).
- CNOR (Certified Nurse Operating Room) certification.
- Familiarity with simulation-based training and adult learning principles.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401(k) Thrift Savings Plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Generous PTO including 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement.
- ✓Eligibility to carry federal insurance programs into retirement.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Nurse Educator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Nurse Educator Job
- Log in or create an account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and preview the occupational questionnaire.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and nursing license documentation.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required supporting documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 11, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and detailed in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your scope of practice.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the five dimensions of nursing (Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Double-check that your license and transcripts are clearly legible.
- Use the 'Saved Search' feature on USAJOBS to stay updated on similar federal nursing roles.
- Ensure your application is submitted well before the midnight ET deadline to account for potential technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected salary range for this role?
The base salary range for this position is $114,899 to $216,077 per year, depending on education, experience, and grade determination.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position based in Martinez, California, requiring daily presence at the clinical facility.
What kind of nursing license do I need?
You must possess a current, full, active, and unrestricted registration as a graduate professional nurse in any U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
Is there relocation assistance available?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this position.
Can I apply if I am not currently a VA employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing comprehensive care to those who have served is a sacred mission. Working for the VANCHCS, you become part of a network that spans Northern California, integrating innovative medical, surgical, and mental health services.