Launch Your Nursing Career at the Sioux Falls VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Nurse looking to make a profound difference? The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is currently seeking a passionate Inpatient Mental Health Nurse to join our interdisciplinary care team. This is a unique opportunity to support those who have served our country in a facility committed to the Whole Health model of care.
About the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System
Located in the heart of South Dakota, our facility is part of the prestigious VA Midwest Healthcare System. We are a teaching hospital that utilizes cutting-edge technology and evidence-based practices. We pride ourselves on creating a compassionate environment where both patients and staff are treated with dignity and respect.
Job Responsibilities
As an Inpatient Mental Health RN, your work will be vital to our mission. You will:
- Lead the delivery of recovery-oriented, patient-centered nursing care.
- Facilitate psychoeducational groups for Veterans.
- Manage psychiatric emergencies through skilled de-escalation.
- Collaborate with social workers, psychiatrists, and other specialists to manage treatment plans.
- Maintain a safe therapeutic environment through routine safety checks.
Qualifications
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following baseline standards:
- Graduation from an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program.
- Current, full, and unrestricted RN licensure in any U.S. State or Territory.
- Proficiency in English.
- Ability to clear a pre-employment physical and background check.
Grade Determination Comparison
| Position Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN + 2 yrs or BSN + 1 yr | Professional Nursing Experience |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 yrs or MSN + 1 yr | Specialized Nursing Experience |
| Nurse III | MSN + 2 yrs or Doctoral + 1 yr | Advanced/Specialized Experience |
Salary and Benefits
The VA offers a robust Total Rewards package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial security.
- Compensation: Salary range of $66,466 to $120,340 based on experience and education.
- Debt Relief: Eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Time Off: 50 days of total paid time off (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays).
- Security: A comprehensive federal retirement plan including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching.
Application Tips
Your federal resume should be detailed. When describing your work history, ensure you provide clear examples of your nursing practice, leadership capabilities, and how you have contributed to evidence-based improvements in patient outcomes. Omissions can impact your consideration, so be thorough.
If you are an RN looking to specialize in mental health while serving our Veterans, this position offers the perfect balance of professional challenge and personal fulfillment. Apply today to become a valued member of the Sioux Falls VA team.
Why This Registered Nurse- Inpatient Mental Health Job Matters
Transform lives by providing compassionate, recovery-focused care to our nation's heroes in a dynamic inpatient mental health setting.
Registered Nurse- Inpatient Mental Health Job Overview
The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse to join our Inpatient Mental Health team. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in the recovery journey of Veterans, working within an interdisciplinary team to provide expert nursing care, crisis intervention, and therapeutic support. This position is perfect for nurses who are passionate about psychiatric care and thrive in collaborative, patient-centered environments.
Requirements for Registered Nurse- Inpatient Mental Health
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be appointed only if qualified citizens are not available).
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing school.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN registration in any U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- English language proficiency (written and spoken).
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Subject to a background/security investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is required.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse- Inpatient Mental Health
- Prior clinical experience in mental health or psychiatric nursing.
- Demonstrated ability to function effectively in crisis/emergency psychiatric situations.
- Strong communication skills for interdisciplinary collaboration and patient education.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility for student loan repayment.
- ✓Competitive salary with regular locality and performance-based increases.
- ✓50 days of paid time off per year (26 annual leave, 13 sick leave, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Federal pension and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Paid parental leave and military leave.
- ✓Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse- Inpatient Mental Health Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse- Inpatient Mental Health Job
- Create or log in to your account on the official federal jobs portal.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, licenses, DD-214).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation through the portal.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 18, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in describing your nursing experience; do not assume the recruiter knows your duties.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the five core dimensions of nursing practice: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice/Research.
- Double-check that all required documents, such as your nursing license and transcripts, are legible.
- Check your application status regularly via your account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP). Specific eligibility and award amounts are determined after a review of your application.
What is the shift schedule?
The position involves a mix of 12-hour and 8-hour shifts, including rotating weekends and holidays. Overnight coverage may be required.
What is the EDRP?
The Education Debt Reduction Program provides significant student loan reimbursement for qualifying VA health care professionals.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite role at the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System.