Become a Nursing Officer of the Day (NOD) at the Dayton VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Registered Nurse to serve as a Nursing Officer of the Day (NOD) at the Dayton VA Medical Center in Ohio. This is a unique opportunity for nurse leaders to step into a role of authority, acting as the primary clinical leader after hours, on weekends, and during holidays. If you are passionate about clinical excellence, team management, and serving those who have served our country, this role offers a rewarding career path with extensive federal benefits.
About the Dayton VA Medical Center
Located in the birthplace of aviation, the Dayton VA Medical Center is a tertiary care facility that provides an array of services, including acute care, mental health support, and hospice/palliative care. The medical center is set in a vibrant community with access to five universities, rich historical sites, and a lower cost of living compared to many other metro areas. Serving as part of VISN 10, the center champions a 'Whole Health' philosophy, focusing on patient-centered care plans that heal the whole person rather than just treating symptoms.
Job Responsibilities
As an NOD, you are the highest-ranking nurse on-site during your tour of duty. Your core responsibilities include:
- Facility Leadership: Directing nursing staff, allocating resources, and managing operational flow.
- Emergency Management: Acting as the lead for clinical crisis management and interdisciplinary disasters.
- Quality Assurance: Providing nursing leadership with data-driven feedback to improve organizational processes.
- Resource Allocation: Ensuring staff levels are appropriate for current patient acuity across the facility.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Level | Education Requirement | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 yrs or MSN + 1 yr experience | Holistic care leadership |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2 yrs or Doctoral + 1 yr experience | Systems-level management |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline standards:
- Licensure: You must hold a full, active, and unrestricted RN license.
- Education: Completion of an accredited professional nursing program.
- Language: Demonstrated proficiency in English.
- Physicality: Must be able to perform standard clinical tasks such as moderate lifting (up to 35 lbs), bending, and standing for extended periods.
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary range starting at $99,691 and reaching up to $156,461 per year, depending on your qualifications, education, and years of specialized experience.
Benefits
- Paid Time Off: 50 days of total leave per year (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- Retirement: Traditional pension system plus 401(k) matching up to 5%.
- Insurance: High-quality federal health, vision, and dental plans.
- Growth: Opportunities for performance awards and continued professional development.
Application Tips
- Use the VA Dimensions: Ensure your resume highlights your experience with the five core VHA dimensions (Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Be Clear: Avoid generalities. Use concrete examples of how you handled leadership tasks in your previous roles.
- Deadlines: Applications close on September 9, 2026. Do not wait until the last minute.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a specific background for this role? A: Yes, experience in management or critical care is strongly preferred.
Q: Is there a drug test? A: Yes, this position is designated as a testing position.
Serving as a Nursing Officer of the Day at the Dayton VA is a significant responsibility, but one that offers unparalleled professional impact. If you are ready to lead and serve, apply today to start your journey with the VA.
Why This Rn - Nursing Officer Of The Day (Nod) Job Matters
Step into a leadership role as a Nursing Officer of the Day (NOD) at the Dayton VA Medical Center—where your clinical expertise shapes the future of Veteran care.
Rn - Nursing Officer Of The Day (Nod) Job Overview
The Dayton VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated and experienced Registered Nurse to join our team as a Nursing Officer of the Day (NOD). In this pivotal leadership position, you will serve as the facility-wide nursing authority during after-hours, weekends, and holidays. You will be responsible for overseeing staffing, managing clinical crises, and ensuring the continuity of patient care in an environment that prides itself on excellence, innovation, and unwavering support for our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Rn - Nursing Officer Of The Day (Nod)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be hired if no qualified citizens are available).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing school.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a background security investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Rn - Nursing Officer Of The Day (Nod)
- Demonstrated experience in nursing management or leadership roles.
- Professional background in Critical Care nursing.
- Advanced clinical expertise in complex patient care management.
- Proven ability to lead interdisciplinary teams during emergency situations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular performance-based increases.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) retirement savings with agency matching.
- ✓Generous PTO including 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
- ✓11 Paid Federal Holidays per year.
- ✓Ability to maintain federal insurance coverage into retirement.
💡 How to Apply Rn - Nursing Officer Of The Day (Nod) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Rn - Nursing Officer Of The Day (Nod) Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume or CV detailing your clinical and leadership experience.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire via the agency application link.
- Upload required documentation, including your nursing license and any relevant transcripts or veterans' preference paperwork.
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Describe your experience in terms of the five VHA nursing dimensions (Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Do not omit details: The hiring team cannot make assumptions about your skills; ensure your resume clearly aligns with the grade-level requirements.
- Check your status: Monitor your application progress through your USAJOBS dashboard periodically after submission.
- Prepare for pre-employment: Be ready for reference checks and, if applicable, drug testing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Nursing Officer of the Day (NOD)?
The NOD acts as the facility nursing expert during off-hours, weekends, and holidays, providing clinical leadership, managing staffing resources, and coordinating emergency responses when regular management is off-duty.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Non-citizens may be appointed only when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens, in accordance with strict VA policy.
Is telework available for this position?
No, this is an onsite clinical leadership position requiring physical presence at the Dayton VA Medical Center.