Lead Veteran Healthcare: Chief Nurse Opportunity in Ann Arbor
Are you a dedicated nurse leader looking to make a transformative impact? The LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is currently recruiting for an Associate Chief Nurse (Service Chief) to oversee Community Care services. This is a vital leadership role that bridges the gap between administrative strategy and high-quality, patient-centered care for those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As the Service Chief of Community Care, your duties will include:
- Strategic Oversight: Managing daily clinical and administrative operations.
- Leadership & Mentorship: Serving as an advisor to the Chief of Staff and a mentor to nursing staff.
- Change Management: Promoting a High Reliability Organization (HRO) culture focused on prevention and safety.
- Collaboration: Partnering with interdisciplinary teams, external community providers, and VA staff nationwide.
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must hold a graduate degree in nursing (MSN/Doctorate) and possess relevant leadership experience. Candidates must maintain a current, unrestricted nursing license and hold a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from an approved provider (AHA or MTN).
Comparison of Qualifications
| Education Level | Required Professional Experience |
|---|---|
| Master's Degree (MSN) | 4 Years |
| Master's (Related Field + BSN) | 4 Years |
| Doctorate in Nursing | 3 Years |
| Doctorate (Related Field + BSN) | 3 Years |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $158,044 to $210,195 per year. Beyond the competitive base pay, the VA offers a robust benefits package, including 50 days of total paid time off, a federal pension, and a 401K-style retirement plan with employer matching.
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead at a prestigious VA facility. If you are passionate about clinical excellence and dedicated to serving Veterans, we encourage you to apply by September 14, 2026.
Why This Chief Nurse Job Matters
Lead the future of Veteran care in Ann Arbor! Join the VHA as a Chief Nurse and drive excellence in Community Care service delivery.
Chief Nurse Job Overview
The LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center is seeking an experienced, visionary leader for the role of Associate Chief Nurse (Service Chief) within our Community Care Service. This high-impact position provides critical oversight for clinical and administrative operations, reporting directly to the Deputy Chief of Staff. You will champion evidence-based care, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and help our organization maintain its status as a High Reliability Organization, ensuring that our nation's heroes receive the compassionate, world-class healthcare they deserve.
Requirements for Chief Nurse
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may only be appointed if no qualified citizens are available).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Graduate of an accredited professional nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Master’s degree in Nursing (or related field) with at least 4 years of professional experience, or a Doctorate with 3 years of experience.
- Must pass pre-employment physical and background security investigation.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required by start date.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Preferred Qualifications for Chief Nurse
- Prior supervisory or management experience in a clinical setting.
- Demonstrated expertise in Community Care service delivery.
- Proven track record of driving institutional change and performance improvements.
- Ability to leverage data analytics and business models to optimize resource management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary with performance-based award potential.
- ✓Comprehensive Paid Time Off: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid Federal holidays.
- ✓Traditional Federal pension plan.
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with agency matching up to 5%.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
- ✓Long-term care insurance availability.
💡 How to Apply Chief Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chief Nurse Job
- Create a profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Review the full vacancy announcement requirements carefully.
- Prepare your resume, professional transcripts, and current nursing license.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of September 14, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; the VA does not make assumptions regarding your experience.
- Clearly link your nursing experience to the five VHA dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice/Research.
- If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure you submit your most recent SF-50.
- Double-check that your transcripts are attached, as education is a critical qualification factor.
- Ensure your BLS certification is current and not an online-only course.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of this role?
The Chief Nurse (Community Care) acts as an administrator, consultant, and mentor, providing senior leadership for clinical and administrative nursing operations to ensure high-quality, patient-centered outcomes for Veterans.
Are there physical requirements for this position?
Yes, the role involves standing, walking, bending, and occasionally assisting with the transfer of patients. You must possess the physical stamina to work in a clinical environment, including potential exposure to infectious materials or combative patients.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional healthcare that improves their lives. We operate on a 'Whole Health' model, which empowers both patients and staff to create personalized health plans that focus on overall well-being, not just treating symptoms.