Lead Excellence in Trauma Recovery: Nurse Manager Opportunity at VA Palo Alto
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class care to those who have served our country. We are currently seeking an experienced and compassionate Nurse Manager to lead our Trauma Recovery Service at the VA Palo Alto Healthcare System in California. This is a unique opportunity to oversee residential mental health operations, mentor nursing staff, and directly impact the recovery and reintegration of Veterans dealing with PTSD and substance abuse.
Job Responsibilities
The Nurse Manager holds a vital role in our clinical ecosystem. Key responsibilities include:
- Overseeing the daily operations of a residential mental health unit.
- Leading staff development and managing nursing personnel.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians and social workers, to develop comprehensive treatment plans.
- Maintaining compliance with CARF, TJC, and internal VA policies.
- Spearheading quality improvement projects to enhance patient care outcomes.
Comparison of Nursing Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Education Required | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN/Diploma | Fundamental Care |
| Nurse I, Level III | BSN/MSN | Complex Situations |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 yrs experience | Holistic Leadership |
| Nurse III | MSN/PhD + experience | Management of Complex Care |
Requirements
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Completion of an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program.
- Licensure: A full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state.
- Background: Ability to pass security clearance and pre-employment physical.
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary range of $153,887 to $228,000 per year, commensurate with experience and education.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- 50 days of total paid leave per year.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Federal 401K with 5% matching and a traditional pension.
- Significant student loan repayment support through the EDRP.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your application package includes the standard clinical resume template. Highlight your management experience in mental health settings and clearly demonstrate your proficiency in the VA’s core nursing dimensions.
If you are a nurse leader passionate about serving Veterans, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the chance to lead, innovate, and provide life-saving care in one of the nation's top healthcare systems.
Why This Rn - Nurse Manager - Trauma Recovery Service Job Matters
Lead a dedicated team in trauma recovery and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans at the prestigious VA Palo Alto Healthcare System.
Rn - Nurse Manager - Trauma Recovery Service Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a compassionate and experienced Nurse Manager to lead our Trauma Recovery Service in Menlo Park, California. In this role, you will oversee a residential mental health unit specialized in treating Veterans with PTSD and substance use disorders. You will manage clinical operations, staff development, and quality improvement initiatives while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to ensure that those who served our country receive the highest standard of holistic care.
Requirements for Rn - Nurse Manager - Trauma Recovery Service
- U.S. Citizenship
- English language proficiency (written and spoken)
- Graduate of a school of professional nursing approved by ACEN or CCNE
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Subject to a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Must be able to complete an online onboarding process
Preferred Qualifications for Rn - Nurse Manager - Trauma Recovery Service
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Previous experience as a Nurse Manager or Supervisor
- Minimum 1 year of experience in mental health nursing or substance abuse treatment
- Current BLS Provider Card
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 days annual, 13 sick, 11 Federal holidays)
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance options
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan
- ✓Federal 401K with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Performance-based awards
💡 How to Apply Rn - Nurse Manager - Trauma Recovery Service Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Rn - Nurse Manager - Trauma Recovery Service Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Prepare your full CV or resume for upload.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package, including all required documents, by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly reflects the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Research.
- Upload the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to avoid processing delays.
- Double-check that your license information is accurate and active.
- Submit well before the deadline to account for any technical issues.
- Clearly label all documents to ensure they are categorized correctly during the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on eligibility requirements.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The role operates on a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
Can I apply if I don't have a BSN?
While a BSN is preferred for higher-level grades, qualifications are assessed based on a combination of education and specialized experience.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Palo Alto Healthcare System is a premier teaching hospital affiliated with the Stanford University School of Medicine. Our facility is a leader in clinical innovation, research, and psychiatric care. As part of the VA Sierra Pacific Network, we provide comprehensive, state-of-the-art care to over 67,000 enrolled Veterans across a spectrum of services, including mental health, surgery, and geriatrics.