Embark on a Fulfilling Nursing Career with the VA in Colorado
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a role that offers both clinical complexity and the opportunity to serve those who have served our country? The VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System is currently hiring Practical Nurses to join our team in Aurora, Colorado. This role offers the perfect balance of professional growth, job security, and meaningful work.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPN/LVN at our Aurora facility, you will:
- Provide a full range of practical nursing care to patients with diverse medical needs.
- Conduct routine patient evaluations, document symptoms, and communicate deviations to RNs or providers.
- Educate patients and families on disease management and treatment plans.
- Utilize motivational interviewing to help patients set and achieve health goals.
- Manage clinic operations, including inventory and equipment maintenance.
Comparison: Standard Clinical Role vs. VA Practical Nurse
| Feature | Standard Private Sector Clinic | VA Healthcare System |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Varies widely | Comprehensive Federal Package |
| Patient Focus | General Public | Veterans and Families |
| Job Security | Market Dependent | High (Federal/Competitive) |
| Retirement | Varies | Pension + 401K Matching |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Hold a current, unrestricted LPN/LVN license.
- Have graduated from an accredited nursing program.
- Be proficient in English.
- Pass a mandatory drug test and security background check.
Salary Overview
The annual salary for this position ranges from $71,546 to $93,009. This competitive pay is supported by the comprehensive total rewards package unique to the federal government.
Benefits
Working for the VA means more than just a paycheck. Our employees enjoy:
- Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid leave, including sick days and 11 federal holidays.
- Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
- Retirement: A stable pension plan plus a 401(k)-style plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- Childcare: Potential subsidies for eligible family members.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly articulate your clinical experience, especially any work in primary care.
- Check Your Documentation: Ensure your license and transcripts are clear and legible.
- Submit Early: Although the window is long, apply as soon as you are ready so your materials can be reviewed.
Joining the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System is an investment in your career and our nation's heroes. With top-tier benefits and a supportive professional environment, there is no better place to practice as an LPN. Apply today to start your journey.
Why This Practical Nurse Job Matters
Join the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System and turn your passion for nursing into a rewarding career serving our nation’s heroes in Aurora.
Practical Nurse Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking dedicated Practical Nurses to join our team in Aurora, Colorado. This role is central to our mission of providing compassionate, patient-centered, and high-quality healthcare to those who have served in the military. You will work within a dynamic teaching hospital environment, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to ensure positive health outcomes and exceptional service for our Veterans.
Requirements for Practical Nurse
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Graduate of an approved practical or vocational nursing program.
- Must hold a current, active, full, and unrestricted LPN/LVN license in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Willingness to undergo a background and security investigation.
- Commitment to participating in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level or equivalent.
- One year of professional experience in a Primary Care setting.
- Demonstrated ability to perform complex diagnostic test support duties.
- Experience serving as a preceptor for less experienced nursing staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with step increases.
- ✓37-50 days of combined annual leave, sick leave, and paid Federal holidays.
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan and 401k with employer matching up to 5%.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and long-term care insurance options.
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, current professional license, and relevant transcripts.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview invitations.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—detail your direct experience with patient care and specialized procedures.
- Ensure your SF-50s (if a federal employee) show promotions or appointments; award-related SF-50s are not accepted.
- Double-check that your license is active and unrestricted before submitting.
- Use the online preview tool for the questionnaire to ensure you have all necessary information prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No. This position requires on-site work at the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care facility in Aurora.
What if I am a recent graduate?
We encourage recent graduates who meet the basic licensure and educational requirements to apply, as long as all prerequisites are met at the time of appointment.
How long will the job be open?
This is an open continuous announcement, accepting applications until December 31, 2026, or until all vacancies are filled.
What if I have a foreign degree?
You must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript to receive credit for your education.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an on-site clinical position.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Our Eastern Colorado location provides state-of-the-art medical technology, robust research opportunities, and an integrated, patient-centered approach to healthcare.