Serving Those Who Served: Nursing Assistant Opportunities in Iowa City
Becoming a Nursing Assistant at the Department of Veterans Affairs is more than just a job; it is a calling. The Iowa City VA Health Care System is currently looking for dedicated individuals to support our Medical-Surgical units. If you are passionate about patient care and want to support the health of our nation's heroes, this is your opportunity to join a top-tier healthcare team.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, your primary duty is the comfort and recovery of our Veterans. Your daily tasks will include:
- Personal Care: Assisting with hygiene, grooming, and skin care.
- Patient Support: Helping with mobility, transferring, and ambulating.
- Clinical Support: Taking vital signs, setting up diagnostic equipment, and performing basic cardiac monitoring.
- Monitoring: Observing patient conditions and reporting changes to the nursing team.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Schedule | Night shifts, rotating weekends/holidays |
| Salary | $37,026 - $60,453 |
| Location | Iowa City, IA |
| Employment Type | Excepted Service |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens and demonstrate proficiency in English. You must pass a pre-employment physical and drug test. Education and experience requirements vary by grade (GS-3 through GS-5), so please ensure your resume clearly outlines your relevant background.
Salary and Benefits
The VHA offers highly competitive compensation packages. Benefits include generous paid time off, federal retirement options, and comprehensive health insurance that can be carried into retirement.
Application Tips
Start by ensuring your resume is detailed. Because the VA cannot make assumptions about your experience, explicitly describe your past roles and responsibilities. Always double-check your application packet before the closing date.
Serving at the VA is a rewarding way to build your career while giving back to those who have sacrificed for our country. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a new challenge, apply today.
Why This Nursing Assistant - Medical Surgical Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by providing compassionate, high-quality care as a Nursing Assistant at the Iowa City VA Health Care System.
Nursing Assistant - Medical Surgical Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Nursing Assistant to join our Medical-Surgical unit in Iowa City, Iowa. In this role, you will be a vital member of the healthcare team, providing essential support to adult and geriatric Veterans. You will assist in daily patient care, monitor health status, and collaborate with registered nurses to ensure our Veterans receive the exceptional care they have earned. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven healthcare environment, working within a facility known for its commitment to clinical excellence and holistic patient wellness.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant - Medical Surgical
- United States Citizenship (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation.
- Must meet specific educational or experience requirements for GS-3, GS-4, or GS-5 levels.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant - Medical Surgical
- One year of progressively responsible nursing assistant experience.
- Completion of specialized healthcare-related coursework or programs.
- Demonstrated ability to assist with patient mobility, vital signs, and bedside procedures.
- Experience in recognizing and reacting to emergent patient care situations.
- Strong interpersonal skills for effective communication with Veterans, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year.
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible full-time employees.
- ✓Federal retirement pension and 401K-style plan with up to 5% employer match.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
- ✓Career advancement and regular salary increases.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant - Medical Surgical Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant - Medical Surgical Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Prepare your long-form resume and any required documentation (transcripts, certificates, etc.).
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume to ensure all relevant experience is captured.
- Ensure your transcripts are clear and legible if using education to qualify.
- Submit all required documents before the closing date to avoid disqualification.
- Clearly explain how your experience translates to the duties listed in the announcement.
- Check your email regularly for status updates from the VA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shift schedule for this position?
The position primarily involves night shifts, but may include various shifts (e.g., 0730-2000, 1930-0800) with rotating weekends and holidays.
Can I use volunteer experience to meet qualification requirements?
Yes, both paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work with recognized organizations, will be considered toward your qualifications.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides comprehensive, whole-health care to those who have served in the military. Since 1952, the Iowa City VA has been a cornerstone of care for Veterans in Eastern Iowa, Western Illinois, and Northern Missouri. As part of our team, you will work in an environment committed to innovation, research, and compassionate service.