Advance Your Nursing Career with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a dedicated nurse looking to make a profound difference in the lives of military families? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently inviting applications for a Critical Care Nurse position at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center in Fort Hood, Texas. This is a unique opportunity to serve those who protect our nation by providing elite, compassionate care in a high-stakes neonatal environment.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the frontline of care for our most vulnerable patients. Your duties will include:
- Continuous Assessment: Monitoring infants to identify and address early signs of clinical deterioration.
- Complex Procedures: Assisting physicians with chest tubes, catheters, and endotracheal intubations.
- Technological Expertise: Operating state-of-the-art life support equipment, including ventilators and blood-testing machines.
- Family Support: Educating parents on neonatal care and development.
- Leadership: Serving as a charge nurse to mentor staff and ensure seamless shift operations.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A degree from an accredited nursing program.
- An active, unrestricted nursing license.
- At least one year of professional experience in critical care (specifically neonates).
- Successful passage of the NCLEX.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Standard Hospital | DHA NICU Role |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Population | General Public | Military Families |
| Environment | Varies | Mission-Essential |
| Benefits | Varies | Federal Package |
| Impact | Patient-Focused | Strategic Medical Readiness |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary of $97,254 to $123,528 per year. Beyond the base pay, employees receive comprehensive federal benefits, including robust health and life insurance, generous retirement options, and the potential for recruitment incentives for qualified candidates.
If you are a highly skilled nurse with a passion for neonatal care, this is your chance to pivot to a career with purpose. Apply today via the USAJOBS portal and take the next step toward a rewarding future at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center.
Why This Nurse (Clinical/Critical Care) Job Matters
Make a life-saving impact on our nation's youngest heroes at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center.
Nurse (Clinical/Critical Care) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated and skilled Critical Care Nurse to join our NICU team at Fort Hood, Texas. In this role, you will provide specialized care to critically ill infants, assist with complex medical procedures, and support military families during their most vulnerable moments. This is an open continuous announcement, offering a unique opportunity to join a mission-essential team committed to excellence in military medicine.
Requirements for Nurse (Clinical/Critical Care)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Graduate degree, bachelor's degree, associate degree, or diploma from an accredited professional nursing program.
- Current, active, full, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. state, D.C., Puerto Rico, or territory.
- Passing score on the National Council Licensure Examination.
- At least one full year of professional nursing experience (GS-09 equivalent or higher) providing care to critically ill infants.
- Foreign nursing graduates must provide official certification from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Nurse (Clinical/Critical Care)
- Advanced experience in high-risk neonatal resuscitation.
- Expertise in operating complex NICU monitoring equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to function as a charge nurse in a critical care setting.
- Experience in clinical research or serving as a professional resource for nursing staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Life insurance programs
- ✓Retirement savings plans including TSP
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
💡 How to Apply Nurse (Clinical/Critical Care) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nurse (Clinical/Critical Care) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Gather your nursing license, transcripts, and any required certifications.
- Submit your online questionnaire and full application package through the USAJOBS portal.
- Monitor your application status on your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages; exceeding this will result in automatic disqualification.
- Explicitly detail your hours worked per week and specific dates (month/year) for all nursing experience.
- Upload your nursing license and transcripts early to avoid last-minute issues with virus scans.
- Avoid acronyms and technical jargon; use clear, descriptive language for your duties.
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses your work with critically ill infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The annual salary for this position ranges from $97,254 to $123,528, depending on experience and qualifications.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located on-site at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center in Fort Hood, Texas, and is designated as mission-essential.
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is the backbone of military medicine, providing health services across the Department of Defense. With a reach extending to over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families, the DHA is a global leader in medical readiness and patient-centered care. Joining our team means joining an inspired, diverse workforce dedicated to excellence.