Advance Your Nursing Career with the Veterans Health Administration
Are you a dedicated nursing professional looking to serve those who have served our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is currently seeking a highly skilled Registered Nurse (RN) to join the Surgical Service Line Float Pool. This role is ideal for clinicians who thrive in dynamic environments and want to expand their expertise across a broad spectrum of surgical specialties.
Job Responsibilities
As a Surgical Service Line Float Pool RN, you will function as a versatile clinical leader. Key responsibilities include:
- Surgical Clinics: Managing patient charts, providing peri-operative education, and performing clinic-specific procedures like suture removal and specialized assessments.
- Same Day Procedure Unit: Administering pre-anesthesia treatments, monitoring post-procedural recovery, and coordinating care with surgical teams.
- IMPACT Clinic: Conducting thorough patient evaluations and medication reconciliations to ensure Veterans are prepared for surgery.
- Interventional Radiology: Monitoring patient vitals, managing medication administration, and providing detailed discharge education.
Skills and Competencies Comparison
| Skill Category | Primary Focus |
|---|---|
| Clinical Practice | Evidence-based care, IV starts, sterile field |
| Patient Education | Pre-op instructions, post-op discharge |
| Documentation | Accurate reporting in electronic health records |
| Teamwork | Collaboration with anesthesia and surgery staff |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards, including:
- Citizenship requirements.
- Possession of a full, active, and unrestricted nursing license.
- Proficiency in English.
- Ability to pass a drug test and background investigation.
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package, with salaries ranging from $71,798 to $147,862 per year, depending on education, experience, and the specific grade level for which you are selected.
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with significant advantages, often described as a 'Total Rewards' package. This includes:
- Paid Time Off: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Access to a federal pension and a 401K-style plan with agency matching.
- Insurance: A wide selection of health, dental, and vision plans.
Application Tips
When building your application, treat your resume as a narrative of your clinical accomplishments. Focus on the five dimensions of VHA nursing: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice. Be clear, specific, and ensure all supporting documents are legible.
Serving as a Surgical Float Pool RN in Pittsburgh is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health and well-being of our Veterans. With a robust benefits package and the opportunity to work in a high-acuity environment, this position offers a rewarding career path for clinical professionals.
Why This Registered Nurse - Surgical Care - Float Pool Job Matters
Join a mission-driven team providing world-class surgical care to those who have served our nation.
Registered Nurse - Surgical Care - Float Pool Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse for the Surgical Service Line Float Pool at the University Drive Campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain exposure across multiple surgical specialties, including Vascular, Orthopedic, Urology, Neurosurgery, and Interventional Radiology. You will provide critical support in ambulatory surgery, preoperative assessment, and clinic-based care, ensuring our Veterans receive the compassionate, high-quality treatment they deserve.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Surgical Care - Float Pool
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- English language proficiency (written and spoken).
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing school.
- Possess a current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in any U.S. State or Territory.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must pass a background/security investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Drug testing for selected applicants.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Surgical Care - Float Pool
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- 5 years of professional medical-surgical nursing experience.
- Experience in Telemetry units.
- Current ACLS Certification.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases
- ✓50 days of paid time off per year (26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 Federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, and dental insurance
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401K savings with agency matching
- ✓Professional development and leadership opportunities
- ✓Long-term care and life insurance options
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Surgical Care - Float Pool Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Surgical Care - Float Pool Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full position announcement and questionnaire.
- Prepare your long-form resume and supporting documents (licensure, transcripts, etc.).
- Complete the online application and submit all required documentation before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is detailed and maps your experience directly to the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your previous duties; be explicit about your skills.
- Double-check that all required documents (SF-50, licenses, transcripts) are uploaded before submitting.
- Check your status in the USAJOBS portal periodically after applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Float Pool RN in this department?
You will rotate across several areas, including the Same Day Procedure/Ambulatory Surgery Unit, Surgical Clinics, the IMPACT clinic, and Interventional Radiology, providing a broad range of peri-operative and clinic-based care.
Is a BSN required for this position?
While a BSN is preferred, applicants with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Nursing Diploma may qualify depending on their level of experience and the grade determination criteria.
What is the work schedule?
*A: The schedule is primarily Monday through Friday, with various shift options available.
Can I apply if I have an ADN?
*A: Yes, grade determination is based on a combination of your education and clinical experience.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 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 a VHA nurse, you are part of an organization that values whole health, evidence-based practice, and compassionate service.