A Rewarding Career as a Registered Nurse at the Erie VA Community Living Center
Are you a dedicated nurse looking for a career path that combines professional excellence with the profound honor of serving those who protected our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking compassionate, skilled Registered Nurses (RNs) for the Community Living Center (CLC) Alpha at the Erie VA Medical Center. This position is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the 'I CARE' values that define the VA's mission to care for America's Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As an RN in the CLC Alpha, you will deliver high-quality, evidence-based care. Your responsibilities include:
- Executing the full nursing process, from assessment and diagnosis to care planning and implementation.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure seamless patient transitions and effective discharge planning.
- Providing patient-centered care that respects Veteran preferences and safety.
- Leading or participating in quality improvement and evidence-based practice projects.
- Mentoring junior staff or students, depending on your assigned grade level.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several fundamental criteria:
- U.S. citizenship (with rare exceptions).
- Possession of a full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. state or territory.
- Successful background, security, and drug testing clearance.
- Completion of an accredited nursing program.
Salary and Grade Overview
Salaries for VA nurses are determined by education, experience, and the specific grade level of the position. Below is a comparison of how your background influences your placement.
| Level | Required Education | Key Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None required |
| Nurse I, Level III | ADN/Diploma or BSN | 1-2 years of professional nursing |
| Nurse II | BSN or MSN | 1-2 years specialized experience |
| Nurse III | MSN or Doctorate | 1-2 years specialized experience |
Note: The total annual compensation range for these roles is $71,805 to $135,863.
Benefits
The VA offers a robust total rewards package designed to support the long-term well-being of its employees. Benefits include 50 days of paid time off, comprehensive health insurance options, and a secure retirement plan consisting of a traditional pension and a 401(k)-style thrift savings plan with employer matching. Furthermore, qualified candidates may be eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which assists in repaying student loans.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly delineate your clinical experience using the five VA nursing dimensions.
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly states the dates and nature of your experience.
- Prepare Documents: Have your transcripts and license copies ready before starting the application.
- Check Status: Use the USAJOBS portal to track your application progress in real-time.
If you are a nurse who values compassionate care and wants to work for an organization that truly honors its patients, this is the perfect opportunity. Apply today to help the Erie VA Medical Center continue its tradition of excellence in Veteran care.
Why This Registered Nurse- Community Living Center Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the dedicated nursing team at the Erie VA Community Living Center.
Registered Nurse- Community Living Center Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking compassionate Registered Nurses to join the Community Living Center (CLC) Alpha at the Erie VA Medical Center. This role offers the opportunity to provide high-quality, patient-centered care in an environment that honors our nation's Veterans. As an RN within the VA system, you will engage in evidence-based practice while participating in professional growth opportunities that range from foundational nursing to advanced leadership and quality improvement initiatives.
Requirements for Registered Nurse- Community Living Center
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited professional nursing program
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse- Community Living Center
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Clinical experience in a long-term care or community living environment
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities in charge nurse or mentorship roles
- Experience in quality improvement and evidence-based practice initiatives
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓50 days of paid time off per year (26 annual leave, 13 sick leave, 11 Federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance programs
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401K-style plan with up to 5% employer contribution matching
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility for qualified participants
- ✓Regular salary increases and performance-based awards
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse- Community Living Center Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse- Community Living Center Job
- Prepare your long-form resume or CV and academic transcripts.
- Visit the USAJOBS portal to log in or create an account.
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire provided in the application link.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including licensure and DD-214 if claiming Veterans' preference.
- Review your application for accuracy before final submission.
- Submit your package and monitor your email for status notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; avoid generalizations, as the HR team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Clearly link your nursing experience to the five core dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Ensure your license information is current and clearly visible.
- If claiming Veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 is legible and reflects your dates of service and character of discharge.
- Double-check your email regularly, as all notifications regarding your application status will be sent electronically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this position?
Yes, this position may be eligible for the EDRP. Eligibility and award amounts are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after selection.
Can I apply if I do not have a BSN?
Yes, the entry-level requirements include an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing, depending on the specific Grade/Level of the position.
What is the expected work schedule?
This role requires flexibility, as it involves rotating tours including weekends and holidays to ensure 24/7 care for our Veterans.
Is this a virtual position?
No, this is an in-person, patient-care position located in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
No, this position is open to the public. However, Veterans' preference applies to qualified candidates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing comprehensive care to millions of Veterans, the VA relies on talented healthcare professionals who share a commitment to integrity, commitment, advocacy, respect, and excellence. Joining the Erie VAMC team means becoming part of an organization that leads the nation in patient-centered, technology-driven healthcare.