Nursing Excellence: Become a Registered Nurse at the Milwaukee VA
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a career that offers more than just a paycheck? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) at the Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee is searching for a passionate Registered Nurse (RN) to join the Community Living Center (CLC). This is your opportunity to provide world-class care to those who have sacrificed so much for our country.
Position Responsibilities
As a CLC Registered Nurse, you will be part of the Valor Point unit—a specialized environment focused on transitional care and rehabilitation. Your daily duties will include:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Creating and implementing care plans tailored to the specific needs and life stages of Veterans.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside doctors, therapists, and social workers to coordinate care across the continuum.
- Clinical Proficiency: Administering medication, performing procedures, and conducting skin assessments while monitoring patient pain levels.
- Patient Advocacy: Supporting Veterans and their families through discharge planning and health self-management education.
- Quality Improvement: Contributing to unit-level initiatives to maintain high clinical standards and regulatory readiness.
Comparison: Standard Clinical Nurse vs. VA CLC Nurse
| Feature | Standard Hospital RN | VA CLC Nurse |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Acute, short-term stabilization | Long-term care & Rehabilitation |
| Patient Population | Diverse demographic | Veterans & their families |
| Loan Repayment | Rare | Yes (EDRP up to $200k) |
| Retirement | Variable | Federal Pension + 401K Matching |
Requirements
Candidates must hold a current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license. You must be a graduate of an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE). Additionally, all applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and undergo a standard background investigation and drug screening process. Veterans' preference is honored for those who meet the eligibility criteria.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $80,229 to $139,849 per year, commensurate with experience and education. Beyond the base pay, the VA offers a comprehensive "Total Rewards" package:
- Financial Security: Potential for performance awards and regular step increases.
- Time Off: A generous 50 days of paid time off per year (Annual leave, sick leave, and Federal holidays).
- Debt Relief: Potential eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Retirement: A robust Federal retirement package including a pension and 401(k)-style thrift savings plan.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is competitive, highlight your experience regarding the five core dimensions of VA nursing: Practice, Veteran-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Research. Be detailed in your resume—do not leave the recruiters guessing. Ensure you upload all necessary documents, including your license and transcripts, well before the deadline.
A career with the Veterans Health Administration is a career of purpose. If you are ready to apply your nursing skills in an environment that deeply values clinical excellence and service, we encourage you to submit your application today. Join us in Milwaukee and make a real impact on the lives of our nation's heroes.
Why This Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Zablocki VA Medical Center, where your nursing expertise directly honors those who served our nation. Become a pillar of support for our Veterans.
Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a compassionate and skilled Registered Nurse (RN) to join the Community Living Center (CLC) and Geriatrics and Extended Care service line in Milwaukee, WI. In this role, you will provide holistic, high-quality care to Veterans, serving as a vital member of an interdisciplinary team. This position offers a unique chance to work within the 40-bed Valor Point unit, providing transitional care and specialized inpatient rehabilitation. We are proud to offer competitive federal benefits and student loan assistance.
Requirements for Registered Nurse - Community Living Center
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be hired only if no qualified citizens are available)
- Full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing program
- English language proficiency in written and spoken communication
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Must pass a drug screening test and background/security investigation
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse - Community Living Center
- Prior experience in long-term care or sub-acute rehabilitation settings
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively with patients, families, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams
- Strong clinical judgment and critical-thinking skills
- Proficiency in utilizing healthcare information technology and electronic health records
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualifying loans)
- ✓Generous PTO (26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- ✓Traditional Federal Pension (5-year vesting) and 401K-style savings plan with matching
- ✓Professional development and continuing education opportunities
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse - Community Living Center Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement requirements.
- Prepare a long-form resume or CV, and gather relevant documents (DD-214, transcripts, license, etc.).
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Clearly link your past experience to the five dimensions of nursing (Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Ensure all documentation, including professional licenses and transcripts, is legible and uploaded correctly.
- Double-check your eligibility for veterans' preference and include the necessary forms like DD-214 and SF-15 if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on eligibility requirements.
What is the shift schedule for this role?
The position requires working the NOC shift (2330-0800), with a schedule that includes alternating weekends and holidays.
Can I apply if I am not currently a licensed nurse?
Yes, under the Graduate Nurse Technician (GNT) exception, candidates currently pursuing licensure may be appointed temporarily while they finalize their state requirements.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. We serve millions of Veterans annually through a network of hospitals, clinics, and community-based facilities. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served and their families. At the Milwaukee VA, we prioritize holistic, whole-health care, ensuring every Veteran receives the respect and clinical excellence they deserve.