Launch Your Nursing Career at the Black Hills VA Health Care System
Are you a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) searching for a role that combines professional growth with a noble mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring an LPN for Ambulatory Care at the Rapid City VA Clinic in Fort Meade, South Dakota. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who have served us while enjoying a high quality of life in one of the nation's safest and most beautiful regions.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPN in this Ambulatory Care role, you will be a vital member of the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT). Your daily duties will include:
- Assisting with patient intake and preparing them for provider visits.
- Managing clinic flow to ensure efficient operations.
- Administering medications and performing treatments such as EKGs, bladder scans, and foot care.
- Documenting patient data accurately in the electronic medical record.
- Performing phlebotomy and preparing specimens.
- Responding to emergency situations and participating in resuscitation efforts.
- Educating patients and their families about health conditions and treatment plans.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship (with limited exceptions).
- A valid, unrestricted LPN/LVN license.
- A degree from an accredited or state-approved nursing program.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical.
Salary and Grade Overview
The salary range for this position is $48,489 to $88,249 per year, depending on your experience and qualifications. The position is open at the GS-3 through GS-6 levels, with a full performance potential up to GS-6.
| Level | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Basic requirements met |
| GS-4 | 6 months of qualifying LPN experience |
| GS-5 | 1 year of equivalent experience at GS-4 level |
| GS-6 | 1 year of equivalent experience at GS-5 level |
Why Work at the VA?
Working for the VA offers more than just a paycheck; it offers a total rewards package that supports your health, retirement, and work-life balance.
- Paid Time Off: Accrue 13–26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave annually, plus 11 federal holidays.
- Insurance: Access to premium federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- Retirement: Benefit from a traditional federal pension and a 401K-style plan with employer matching.
- Support: Eligible employees may receive childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
Securing a role with the federal government requires attention to detail. Use the provided template for your resume, as it is designed to highlight the specific competencies federal recruiters look for. Be sure to address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) in your application materials, and ensure your license and enrollment details are clearly stated if you are near graduation.
Is this a remote position?
No, this role requires on-site presence at the clinic in Fort Meade/Rapid City to provide direct patient care.
The Black Hills VA Health Care System offers a unique blend of professional challenge and personal satisfaction. If you are a compassionate nurse looking to contribute to the well-being of Veterans, we encourage you to apply. Use the link below to access your account and start your application today.
Why This Licensed Practical Nurse- Ambulatory Care Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Black Hills VA Health Care System and provide essential nursing care to the heroes who served our nation.
Licensed Practical Nurse- Ambulatory Care Job Overview
The VA Midwest Health Care Network is seeking a compassionate and skilled Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to join the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) at the Rapid City VA Clinic in Fort Meade, South Dakota. This role is pivotal in delivering comprehensive, whole-person care to adult and geriatric Veterans in a clinical setting. You will work closely with Registered Nurses and providers to manage patient intake, perform clinical procedures, administer medications, and ensure our Veterans receive the high-quality, compassionate healthcare they deserve.
Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse- Ambulatory Care
- Must be a United States Citizen.
- Active, full, current, and unrestricted LPN/LVN licensure in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Graduate of a state-approved/accredited practical or vocational nursing program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Ability to complete a 1 to 2-year trial period.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Practical Nurse- Ambulatory Care
- Prior experience in outpatient clinic, hospital, or nursing home settings.
- Demonstrated ability to perform patient education regarding disease processes and treatment.
- Experience with electronic medical records documentation.
- Proficiency in performing clinical procedures such as phlebotomy, EKG, and bladder scans.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible full-time employees.
- ✓No state income tax in South Dakota.
💡 How to Apply Licensed Practical Nurse- Ambulatory Care Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Practical Nurse- Ambulatory Care Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Download and prepare the standard Clinical Resume document.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, license, and any supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, SF-50).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details how your past experience matches the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed.
- Do not assume the recruiter knows your background; be specific about your nursing duties.
- Follow the specific formatting instructions for the Clinical Resume document provided by the VA.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before hitting submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time position working Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation assistance (Permanent Change of Station) is not authorized for this position.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
Citizenship is a basic requirement, though non-citizens may be considered only if qualified citizens are unavailable in accordance with VA policy.
Can I apply if I am a student?
Yes, if you are currently enrolled in an approved LPN/LVN program, you may provide proof of enrollment to be considered for certain opportunities.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. The Black Hills VA Health Care System (VA BHHCS) provides a comprehensive range of health services, including primary care, acute medicine, and behavioral health, across Western South Dakota, Northern Nebraska, and Eastern Wyoming. Joining this team means embracing a "Whole Health" approach, prioritizing the personal well-being of both Veterans and staff.