Advance Your Nursing Career: ICU Opportunities at the VA Saint Louis Health Care System
Are you a dedicated nurse looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our country? The VA Saint Louis Health Care System is currently seeking compassionate, highly skilled Registered Nurses to join our Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This is an exceptional opportunity to practice high-acuity nursing in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. With a competitive salary and the stability of a federal position, you can build a rewarding career while providing life-saving care to Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As an ICU Nurse at the VA, you are the frontline advocate for patients in critical condition. Your responsibilities include:
- Managing the assessment, planning, and implementation of complex patient care.
- Monitoring hemodynamic stability and adjusting treatments based on real-time data.
- Collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of physicians, specialists, and support staff.
- Engaging in unit-level quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes.
- Providing emotional support and education to patients and their families during difficult transitions.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following federal requirements:
- Licensure: You must hold a full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. state or territory.
- Education: You must be a graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing (ACEN or CCNE).
- Citizenship: Preference is given to U.S. citizens.
- Medical Compliance: You must be able to pass a pre-employment physical and participate in the annual influenza vaccination program.
Grade Determination Comparison
| Grade Level | Education Requirement | Expected Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma OR BSN | 1 year (or 0 for BSN) |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN/BSN/MSN | 1-2 years |
| Nurse II | BSN/MSN/Doctoral | 1-2 years specialized |
| Nurse III | MSN/Doctoral | 2+ years specialized |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary range between $82,702 and $158,193 per year, commensurate with your education, specialized experience, and specific grade assignment. Federal positions also feature regular salary increases and performance-based awards.
Benefits
Joining the VA means investing in your future. Our total rewards package includes:
- Work-Life Balance: 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays.
- Retirement: Federal pension plan and 401k-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
- Financial Support: Potential for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) to help pay off your student loans.
- Insurance: Full range of health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance plans.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly demonstrate how your nursing experience aligns with the five dimensions of VHA practice: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice/Research.
- Be Specific: Do not just list duties; explain the scope and quality of your work.
- Prepare Documents: Have your transcripts and license ready before you begin the online application.
Serving our Veterans is a calling that requires the best nursing talent available. If you have the clinical expertise and the passion for high-acuity care, we invite you to apply. Join the VA Saint Louis Health Care System and elevate your nursing career today.
Why This Registered Nurse- Intensive Care Unit Job Matters
Make a life-saving impact where it matters most: join the VA Saint Louis Health Care System as an Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse and support the heroes who served our nation.
Registered Nurse- Intensive Care Unit Job Overview
The VA Saint Louis Health Care System is seeking dedicated Registered Nurses to join our Critical Care team. In this role, you will provide life-sustaining care to Veterans facing complex, life-threatening health challenges. You will work within an interdisciplinary team at our John Cochran Division, managing patients through the full continuum of care—from admission to discharge. This is a vital position for nurses who are passionate about delivering high-acuity care with compassion and expertise.
Requirements for Registered Nurse- Intensive Care Unit
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply under specific conditions).
- English language proficiency in written and spoken communication.
- Degree from an accredited school of professional nursing (ACEN or CCNE).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a background security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse- Intensive Care Unit
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
- Minimum of 2 years of professional Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nursing experience.
- Experience working in a multidisciplinary teaching facility.
- Strong clinical judgment and critical thinking skills in high-acuity environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular performance-based increases.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k-style thrift savings plan with agency matching.
- ✓Generous leave package including 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
- ✓11 paid federal holidays per year.
- ✓Potential eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- ✓Supportive environment with opportunities for continuing education and career advancement.
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse- Intensive Care Unit Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse- Intensive Care Unit Job
- Create or log into your account at the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare your long-form resume and all required supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, nursing license).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Attach all necessary eligibility documents, such as your DD-214 or disability letters if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of December 30, 2026.
- Monitor your email for confirmation and status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is detailed; highlight specific ICU experience and the five dimensions of nursing (Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; clearly outline your responsibilities and achievements in previous roles.
- Check your USAJOBS profile regularly to ensure your contact information and documents are up to date.
- If you are a Veteran, ensure you upload your DD-214 to claim preference points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position may be eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement for qualifying applicants. Eligibility is determined after selection.
What is the shift schedule like?
The position is full-time, consisting of six 12-hour shifts and one 8-hour shift per pay period. Schedules include days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Can I apply if I am a new graduate?
Yes, depending on your education level and the grade criteria, but the unit specifically values experience in critical care. Refer to the Grade Determination section to see where your education and experience qualify you.
How long is this job open?
This is an open continuous announcement, which will accept applications until December 30, 2026.
Are there relocation incentives?
Currently, relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
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 and their families. The VA Saint Louis Health Care System is a flagship, interdisciplinary teaching facility serving Veterans across Missouri and Illinois. Whether you are working at the John Cochran Division or the Jefferson Barracks Division, you will be part of a team that utilizes cutting-edge medical practices to improve the health and well-being of our heroes.