Launch Your Healthcare Career: Become a Nursing Assistant with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with deep personal purpose? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Nursing Assistant to join our mission-driven team in Iron Mountain, Michigan. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide compassionate, resident-centered care to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you will provide a wide range of services to patients in the Community Living Center. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Patient Care: Assisting with hygiene, bathing, feeding, and mobility support.
- Clinical Support: Monitoring vital signs, collecting lab specimens, and performing glucose testing.
- Treatment: Changing dressings, applying heat/cold therapy, and assisting with complex medical procedures.
- Emergency Response: Recognizing life-threatening situations and initiating basic life support as needed.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate patient records and charting observations of physical or behavioral changes.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, pass a pre-employment physical, and undergo a comprehensive background investigation. Proficiency in English is required, and all healthcare personnel must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
| Grade Level | Education/Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Basic requirements (6 months experience or equivalent education) |
| GS-4 | 1 year of specialized experience or 2 years of post-high school education |
| GS-5 | 1 year of experience at the GS-4 level or a 4-year degree (with 24+ credits in health care) |
Salary and Benefits
Federal employment offers a robust rewards package. The salary for this position ranges from $32,435 to $59,485 depending on the assigned grade level. Beyond the paycheck, you will enjoy:
- Comprehensive Insurance: Health, dental, vision, and long-term care options.
- Time Off: 37–50 days of combined leave and federal holidays annually.
- Retirement: Federal pension vesting after 5 years and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
- Work-Life Balance: Childcare subsidies and paid parental leave.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted through the USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume highlights specific accomplishments using the recommended S.T.A.R. (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method, and attach all required transcripts or licensure documentation before the closing date.
If you are a compassionate healthcare professional ready to serve those who have served us, we encourage you to apply. Join a team where your work truly matters and take the next step in your career with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the dedicated care team at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center.
Nursing Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a compassionate and skilled Nursing Assistant to serve in our Community Living Center in Iron Mountain, Michigan. This role is pivotal in providing direct, resident-centered care that honors the dignity and sacrifices of our Veterans. You will work within an interdisciplinary team to support daily living needs, monitor patient status, and assist with essential medical treatments, ensuring our Veterans receive the high-quality care they deserve.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be considered only if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must pass a background and security investigation.
- Subject to mandatory urinalysis screening for illegal drug use.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must serve a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant
- One to two years of prior experience as a Nursing Assistant.
- Proven ability to perform patient care, observe changes in condition, and effectively utilize medical equipment.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with Veterans, families, and healthcare staff.
- Demonstrated ability to react effectively in emergency or life-threatening situations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases.
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 50 days including annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for qualifying families.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume detailing all relevant experience, including hours worked per week and specific dates.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and any applicable SF-50 forms.
- Review your application package for accuracy and submit before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—use the 'accomplished X as measured by Y, by doing Z' format.
- Ensure your resume reflects the specific KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) mentioned in the announcement.
- Double-check that all required documents (transcripts, certificates) are attached before submission.
- Verify your eligibility requirements carefully as they vary by grade level (GS-3 through GS-5).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time position with shifts from 2:00 pm to 10:30 pm, which may include rotating weekends and holidays.
Are there opportunities for remote work?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Community Living Center in Iron Mountain, Michigan.
What level of education is required to qualify for a GS-5 position?
To qualify for a GS-5, you typically need one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-4 level or a bachelor's degree that includes 24 semester hours of health care-related coursework.
Is a drug test required?
Yes, all tentative selections are subject to urinalysis.
Does this position offer relocation assistance?
No, relocation assistance (PCS) is not authorized for this specific announcement.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As an employee of the VHA, you will work in an environment that prioritizes the dignity and well-being of Veterans, utilizing a whole-health approach to treatment and recovery.