Launch Your Nursing Career at Guthrie Army Health Clinic
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a role that combines professional clinical practice with a noble mission? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a motivated Practical Nurse to join the team at the Guthrie Army Health Clinic in Fort Drum, New York. This role is a vital component of the military healthcare system, ensuring that service members and their families receive the high-quality, compassionate care they deserve.
About the Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system responsible for delivering medical services across the Department of Defense. By supporting the Joint Force, the agency plays a strategic role in maintaining the health and readiness of over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. Working here means being part of a dedicated team of professionals committed to excellence, innovation, and service.
Core Responsibilities
As a Practical Nurse (Outpatient), your day-to-day work will directly impact patient outcomes. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Patient Care: Developing and implementing individualized nursing care plans based on physician orders and assessments.
- Clinical Procedures: Assisting physicians during diagnostic examinations and performing procedures such as wound dressing changes, nebulizer treatments, and injections.
- Medication Management: Preparing and administering oral medications and immunizations with strict adherence to safety protocols.
- Documentation: Meticulously recording vital signs, specimen collections, and patient complaints in accordance with healthcare regulations.
- Care Coordination: Managing patient referrals to ensure specialty care is seamless and completed within the clinic and network providers.
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this position, applicants must demonstrate a solid foundation in nursing. You must meet the following baseline criteria:
- Licensure: You must hold a current, valid license as a practical or vocational nurse in a U.S. State or territory. Candidates who have applied for a license may also be considered under specific conditions.
- Experience: A minimum of one year of specialized nursing experience is required. This experience must be in a clinical, hospital, or medical setting where you performed tasks such as sterile technique application and direct patient support.
Comparison of Potential Candidates
| Feature | Qualified Candidate | Ideal Candidate |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year Minimum | 3+ Years in Outpatient Clinic |
| Certification | Current State License | Multiple Certifications/Specializations |
| Skills | Basic Patient Care | Referral Management & EHR Expert |
| Goal | Standard Clinical Work | Career growth within DHA |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $50,434 to $65,565 per year. Beyond the base salary, successful candidates may be eligible for a range of federal benefits, including:
- Health and Wellness: Access to comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- Financial Security: Robust retirement planning and life insurance options.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Professional Incentives: Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses and student loan repayment assistance for highly qualified individuals.
How to Apply
Application for federal employment is a structured process. Ensure you have your USAJOBS profile updated and your resume tailored to meet the specific requirements of the announcement. Your resume must not exceed two pages and must explicitly document your clinical experience. Ensure all required documentation, including your nursing license, is uploaded before the October 27, 2026, closing date.
Joining the Guthrie Army Health Clinic as a Practical Nurse is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of those who serve our country. With competitive benefits and a supportive professional environment, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your clinical expertise. If you meet the qualifications, submit your application today to join this dedicated team.
Why This Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job Matters
Elevate your nursing career by joining the dedicated healthcare professionals at the Guthrie Army Health Clinic, where you will provide essential care to our military community.
Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a skilled Practical Nurse to join the team at the Guthrie Army Health Clinic at Fort Drum, New York. In this vital role, you will assist in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, contributing to the health and readiness of military service members, retirees, and their families. This is a direct-hire opportunity that offers the chance to make a meaningful impact within an integrated healthcare system.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Outpatient)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess a current, active license to practice as a practical or vocational nurse in a U.S. State, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Must have at least one year of specialized nursing experience in a hospital, clinic, or medical facility.
- Experience must demonstrate proficiency in sterile techniques, patient care, medication administration, and assisting providers with minor procedures.
- Must be able to provide documentation or official proof of licensure.
- Must be able to complete a probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Outpatient)
- Proven experience in an outpatient clinical setting.
- Demonstrated ability to perform referral and utilization management.
- Strong proficiency in electronic health record documentation.
- Experience with immunizations and individualized patient care planning.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health insurance plans.
- ✓Life insurance and retirement program options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Possible student loan repayment assistance.
- ✓Opportunity for professional development within the Department of Defense health network.
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare your resume, ensuring it is two pages or less and contains all required details (hours per week, dates of employment).
- Complete the required online questionnaire.
- Upload your nursing license and any relevant supporting documents.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline on October 27, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; longer resumes will be excluded from consideration.
- Be specific about your nursing experience; clearly state your responsibilities, such as administering immunizations or assisting with minor procedures.
- Verify that your license information is accurate and clearly visible in your submitted documentation.
- Use plain, clear language and avoid internal jargon or obscure acronyms.
- Submit your materials well before the deadline to allow time for the system's virus scan and any technical troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, for this specific position, you must meet the qualification requirements through relevant professional experience alone.
What happens if my license is currently pending?
Non-licensed candidates who have completed training may be appointed pending licensure, but they must obtain the license within the probationary period to remain in the position.
Is a security clearance required?
No, this position is categorized as non-sensitive and does not require a security clearance, though it is subject to suitability and fitness adjudication.
Is this position telework eligible?
No, this role requires on-site clinical presence at the Guthrie Army Health Clinic.
Will I need to relocate?
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized for this role, but recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for qualified candidates.