Advance Your Nursing Career at the Kansas City VA
Are you a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with a higher purpose? The Kansas City VA Healthcare System is hiring, and this is your opportunity to join a mission-driven team providing world-class care to our nation's Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPN in the Surgery/Gold Clinic, you are the backbone of patient support. Your daily duties will include:
- Clinical Care: Delivering hands-on nursing support, including wound care, catheter management, and vital sign monitoring.
- Medication Administration: Preparing and administering medications while observing for patient reactions.
- Patient Education: Teaching Veterans and their families about disease processes, medications, and discharge plans.
- Team Coordination: Collaborating with physicians and registered nurses to streamline clinic flow.
Qualifications
To qualify for this role, you must hold an active, unrestricted LPN/LVN license. Experience in a surgical or clinical environment is highly preferred. The VA assesses candidates based on their technical proficiency, ability to work in a team, and commitment to customer service.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Benefit Feature | Federal VA Position | Private Sector Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Salary Increases | Annual/Step-based | Variable/Performance-based |
| Retirement | Pension + 401(k) Match | Often 401(k) only |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 Days Combined | Often 15-20 Days |
| Job Security | High (Excepted Service) | Variable |
Application Tips
- Detailed Resume: Quantify your nursing experience. Include hours worked per week and specific clinical procedures performed.
- Supporting Docs: Do not forget your nursing license and transcripts. Missing documents are the leading cause of application rejection.
- Follow Directions: The application process includes a specific questionnaire. Ensure every section is completed before submission.
Working as a Practical Nurse with the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and service. With competitive pay, robust retirement plans, and a supportive environment, this role offers stability and growth. Apply today via USAJOBS to start your journey at the Kansas City VA.
Why This Practical Nurse Job Matters
Advance your nursing career by joining the dedicated team at the Kansas City VA Healthcare System, providing essential, compassionate care to those who have served our country.
Practical Nurse Job Overview
The Kansas City VA Healthcare System is seeking dedicated Practical Nurses (LPNs/LVNs) to join our Surgery/Gold Clinic team. In this role, you will perform high-quality, patient-centered care, collaborating with registered nurses and physicians to support the health and well-being of Veterans. This position offers a rewarding career path with clear opportunities for growth, competitive pay, and the chance to make a genuine impact in the lives of our nation's heroes.
Requirements for Practical Nurse
- U.S. Citizenship
- Full, active, current, and unrestricted LPN/LVN license in a U.S. State or Territory
- Graduate of an accredited practical or vocational nursing program
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Must pass a background and security investigation
- Ability to complete an online onboarding process
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse
- One year of professional experience in a surgical or clinical setting
- Demonstrated ability to handle specialized nursing equipment and sterile techniques
- Strong communication skills for patient and family education
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including a pension and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with 5% matching
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees with household income under $144,000
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume documenting your nursing experience.
- Gather supporting documents such as nursing license, transcripts, and relevant SF-50 forms.
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire via the application link.
- Upload all required documents and submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your daily duties.
- Ensure your license status is clear and provide all requested credentials upfront.
- Check your USAJOBS application status regularly for updates.
- If you have questions, reach out to the contact provided in the announcement.
- Verify that your resume is formatted as a long-form document to capture all relevant experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay range for this position?
The salary range for the Practical Nurse position in Kansas City is $49,874 to $78,163 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite clinical position at the Kansas City VA Medical Center and is not eligible for telework.
What is the application deadline?
This is an open continuous announcement, but the current period closes on December 31, 2026.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?
*A: Yes, U.S. citizenship is a mandatory requirement for this position.*
Is there a trial period?
*A: Yes, new hires are required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate fitness for the role.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who served in our military, along with their families and survivors. Working at the Kansas City VA Healthcare System means becoming part of an integrated network that prioritizes whole-health care and clinical innovation.