Nursing Assistant Career Opportunities at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston is hiring compassionate Nursing Assistants to join our elite team of caregivers. This role is not just a job; it is an opportunity to provide high-quality, specialized care to the Veterans who have dedicated their lives to our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you will act as a vital member of the nursing care team. You will work independently to provide complex care to Veterans with acute to chronic conditions. Your primary duties will include:
- Monitoring patient health status and documenting intake/output.
- Utilizing medical equipment for patient safety and self-care (e.g., lift systems).
- Collaborating with RNs, LVNs, and interdisciplinary teams.
- Assisting in therapeutic group activities and patient orientation.
- Reacting to emergent situations and providing essential support until specialized care arrives.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the basic federal requirements, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Adherence to the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Meeting the education or experience standards (minimum six months experience or specialized training).
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range designed to attract top-tier talent. The pay is commensurate with federal GS grade standards.
| Position Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Nursing Assistant (GS-05) | $49,067 - $63,787 |
Benefits
Federal employment comes with a suite of industry-leading benefits, including:
- Retirement: Traditional pension and 401K plan with 5% matching.
- Time Off: Generous annual, sick, and federal holiday leave.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life coverage.
- Support: Parental leave and childcare subsidies for eligible families.
Application Tips
- Detail Your Resume: Include exact dates (month/year) and hours per week for every position listed.
- Be Thorough: Submit all requested documents, including transcripts and certifications, at the time of application.
- Prepare for the Process: Expect a background check and stay responsive to communication via your USAJobs account.
If you are ready to advance your career while providing essential services to our nation's heroes, the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is the place for you. Apply today to help us uphold our mission and provide the compassionate care our Veterans deserve.
Why This Nursing Assistant (Intermittent) Job Matters
Join the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center team and provide compassionate, life-changing care to the Veterans who served our nation.
Nursing Assistant (Intermittent) Job Overview
The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston is seeking compassionate and skilled Nursing Assistants to join our Resource Center/Float Pool. In this critical role, you will provide comprehensive nursing care to Veterans across various clinical settings, working alongside licensed nursing staff and interdisciplinary teams to ensure high-quality patient outcomes. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to serve those who have served, while working in a fast-paced and supportive healthcare environment.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant (Intermittent)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
- Pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening.
- Complete a mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Subject to a background and security investigation.
- Six months of general experience OR one year of relevant education beyond high school OR specialized vocational training.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant (Intermittent)
- 1-3 years of inpatient nursing unit experience.
- Active Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.
- Proven ability to handle complex nursing tasks under minimal supervision.
- Demonstrated experience in acute, sub-acute, or long-term care settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive annual salary with regular increases.
- ✓Comprehensive paid time off (up to 37-50 days per year including sick, annual, and federal holidays).
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for qualifying families.
- ✓Robust federal retirement package including pension and 401K with employer matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant (Intermittent) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant (Intermittent) Job
- Create or update your USAJobs account.
- Prepare a comprehensive resume detailing duties, dates of employment, and hours worked.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, certifications, and SF-50s (if applicable).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for each role.
- Clearly highlight your clinical nursing experience and certifications.
- Do not leave any part of the online questionnaire blank.
- Review all required documents to ensure you have uploaded everything requested before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an in-person role located at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston.
What is the work schedule like?
Schedules vary based on facility needs and will be discussed during the interview process. Shifts may include weekends, holidays, and rotating hours.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all applicants are subject to a security and background investigation, as well as a pre-employment drug test.
What if I have prior military service?
*A: Veterans are encouraged to apply and may be eligible for specific hiring preferences and leave accrual benefits.*
Is there a trial period?
*A: Yes, all new appointees are subject to a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military." The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center stands at the forefront of this mission, serving over 151,000 Veterans in Southeast Texas. Joining our team means becoming part of a prestigious healthcare organization that values innovation, compassion, and excellence.