Advance Your Nursing Career with the VA in Bakersfield
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a career that offers both professional growth and the deep satisfaction of serving those who have protected our freedom? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Registered Nurse (RN) for our Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) at the Bakersfield Community-Based Outpatient Clinic. This position offers a competitive salary, exceptional benefits, and a stable work-life balance.
Job Responsibilities
As a PACT Registered Nurse, you will serve as a leader and a primary point of contact for Veterans in an ambulatory care setting. Your key duties will include:
- Care Coordination: Manage patient care plans to ensure timely, high-quality, and accessible health services.
- Clinical Procedures: Perform direct patient care tasks including phlebotomy, EKG testing, and wound care.
- Patient Education: Provide comprehensive education to patients and their families to promote improved health outcomes.
- Leadership: Guide and direct nursing staff, including Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), to ensure efficient clinic operations.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:
- A degree from an accredited school of professional nursing.
- A current, full, and unrestricted nursing license.
- Ability to pass a mandatory federal background check and drug screening.
- Commitment to the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $104,916 - $187,804 |
| Schedule | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Location | Bakersfield, CA |
| Citizenship | Required |
Salary Overview
This position provides a robust compensation package. The salary is determined based on your specific education, years of professional nursing experience, and adherence to VHA dimensions of practice. Regular salary increases and performance-based awards are available to top performers.
Benefits
- Paid Time Off: 50 days of total leave per year.
- Retirement: Federal pension and a 401(k) matching program.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
Application Tips
When building your application, prioritize detail. Clearly outline your experience in the five pillars of VHA nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Research. Upload all transcripts and certifications to ensure your qualifications are fully recognized.
Join us in Bakersfield and become a critical part of our mission. Apply via the USAJOBS portal today to take the next step in your nursing journey.
Why This Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff - Patient Aligned Care Team Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country while advancing your nursing career in beautiful Bakersfield.
Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff - Patient Aligned Care Team Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to join the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) at the Bakersfield Community-Based Outpatient Clinic. In this vital role, you will coordinate patient-centered care, conduct diagnostic testing, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to ensure our Veterans receive high-quality, compassionate healthcare services.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff - Patient Aligned Care Team
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens when qualified citizens are unavailable)
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited school of professional nursing
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Proficiency in basic written and spoken English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment
- Subject to a background security investigation and drug testing
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff - Patient Aligned Care Team
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- At least 2 years of recent, successful professional nursing practice
- Minimum of 1 year of acute care or triage experience
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in primary care or ambulatory settings
- Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular pay increases
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Generous PTO including 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays annually
- ✓Performance-based awards and bonuses
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff - Patient Aligned Care Team Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Outpatient Staff - Patient Aligned Care Team Job
- Create or log in to your account at the USAJOBS portal
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Review all qualification criteria and the required document list
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload necessary documentation such as licenses, transcripts, and DD-214 if applicable
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the five dimensions of VHA nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Research.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your experience; be explicit and detailed regarding your clinical history.
- Verify that your license information is accurate and attached.
- Submit your materials early to avoid last-minute technical issues before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PACT model?
The Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) is the VA's version of a medical home, focusing on coordinated, team-based care where the Veteran is the center of all clinical decisions.
Can I apply if I am a new graduate?
Yes, depending on your education (ADN or BSN), you may be eligible for entry-level Nurse I positions. Review the grade determination criteria in the official posting.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work environment like?
The position is based in an ambulatory outpatient clinic, offering a steady, standard daytime schedule.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional, compassionate, and holistic care. When you work for the VA, you are part of a mission-driven organization that values clinical excellence and evidence-based practice.