Become an Occupational Health Nurse with the Army National Guard
Are you a nursing professional looking to shift your focus toward occupational safety and large-scale health program management? The Army National Guard is currently seeking a motivated Occupational Health Nurse (GS-0018-12) to serve at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. This is a unique dual-status opportunity that allows you to serve both as a technician and a member of the National Guard, ensuring the wellbeing of our military and civilian workforce.
Job Responsibilities
As an Occupational Health Nurse, you will be the primary point of contact for health and safety initiatives. Key duties include:
- Program Management: Develop, analyze, and review occupational health services for National Guard personnel.
- Regulatory Coordination: Liaise with OSHA, the CDC, and various state environmental quality agencies.
- Mishap Investigation: Conduct thorough site investigations after incidents, document findings, and recommend corrective actions.
- Medical Oversight: Review information pertinent to OWCP claims and assist in agency decision-making processes.
- Reporting: Prepare data-driven reports on health education and quality improvement.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Experience: 36 months of specialized experience in occupational safety and health.
- Credentialing: Current certification or licensure relevant to the field.
- Military Standing: Must be or be eligible to become a member of a compatible military unit (Grades O-1 to O-4).
- Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | Essential | Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 36 Months Specialized | 48+ Months |
| Certification | Required | CSP, CIH, or CHP |
| Military Grade | O-1 to O-4 | Prior Unit Leadership |
| Education | Relevant Degree | Advanced Graduate Work |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $105,481 to $137,128 per year, commensurate with your grade and service experience. In addition to salary, you gain access to a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:
- Robust federal retirement options.
- Potential for military-related bonuses.
- Access to union representation.
- Opportunities for professional certifications and clinical training.
Application Tips
Submitting a federal application can be competitive. To ensure your resume stands out:
- Be Specific: Detail your previous experience in occupational settings, including how many hours you worked per week and the specific outcomes of your programs.
- Avoid Plagiarism: Do not copy and paste the vacancy announcement text into your resume; the system will flag this, and you will be disqualified.
- Documents: Double-check your military proof, transcripts, and SF-50 (if applicable) before submission.
Taking on this role means more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health of the men and women who serve our country. If you have the clinical expertise and the drive to improve safety standards, apply today to start your journey with the Army National Guard.
Why This Nursing (Occupational Health) Job Matters
Protect the health of our nation's defenders. Join the Army National Guard as an Occupational Health Nurse and lead vital wellness programs at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
Nursing (Occupational Health) Job Overview
The Department of the Army is seeking a dedicated Occupational Health Nurse for a Title 32 Excepted Service position within the State Surgeon's office. This role is pivotal in managing comprehensive occupational health initiatives for military and civilian personnel. You will oversee health services, coordinate with federal and state agencies, and ensure a safe, compliant work environment. This is a dual-status position requiring military membership, offering a unique opportunity to blend clinical expertise with safety management.
Requirements for Nursing (Occupational Health)
- Must be currently certified at the GS-11 level or possess at least one year of on-the-job experience as a GS-11.
- Minimum of 36 months of specialized experience in occupational safety, mishap investigation, and reporting.
- Must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance within one year of appointment.
- Must be a member of the military unit compatible with the position (Rank: 2LT/O-1 to Maj/O-4).
- Must be registered with Selective Service if born after Dec 31, 1959.
- Must meet physical requirements: normal color vision, no acrophobia, no history of emotional instability, and ability to perform routine walking and standing.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing (Occupational Health)
- Degree in safety, occupational health, industrial hygiene, or related fields with 24+ semester hours of relevant coursework.
- Professional certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), or Certified Health Physicist (CHP).
- Experience in coordinating with regulatory bodies like OSHA, CDC, and state-level health agencies.
- Proven background in evaluating medical claims and managing occupational health databases.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Professional Development and Training
- ✓Access to Federal Labor Relations support
- ✓Eligibility for potential military bonuses (subject to verification)
- ✓Telework opportunities (subject to approval)
💡 How to Apply Nursing (Occupational Health) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing (Occupational Health) Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) detailing specific experience and duties.
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Upload required documents (SF-50, military proof, transcripts, certifications).
- Submit your complete package by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates, hours worked, and comprehensive descriptions of your duties.
- Do not copy and paste the job description text into your resume, as this leads to disqualification.
- Verify that all documents are fully uploaded and visible in your portal before clicking submit.
- Clearly state your intent to accept a reduction in grade if your current military rank is above O-4.
- Allow at least one hour for system virus scans before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is military membership required for this position?
Yes, this is a Title 32 Dual-Status position, meaning you must be assigned to a compatible military unit within the Army National Guard.
What is the maximum length allowed for my resume?
Your resume must not exceed two pages. Incomplete or overly long resumes will not be considered.
Can I telework in this role?
Telework is an option but remains subject to the specific approval of your supervisor and branch chief.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard plays a dual role in our nation's defense, serving both state and federal missions. Within the State Surgeon's office, the Occupational Health Program is responsible for maintaining high safety standards across industrial, administrative, and field operations. Working here means collaborating with DoD agencies, OSHA, and state health departments to maintain a safe and efficient working environment.