Advance Your Nursing Career at Fort Hood: Join the Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) provides medical excellence to those who protect our nation. We are currently looking for a skilled, compassionate, and dedicated Practical Nurse (Outpatient) to join our team at Fort Hood, Texas. If you are looking for a career that combines clinical expertise with a deep commitment to service, this role is the perfect next step.
Job Responsibilities
As a Practical Nurse in our outpatient clinic, your day-to-day responsibilities will be varied and impactful. You will work closely with the medical team to ensure patients receive timely and effective treatment. Key duties include:
- Providing direct nursing care for a range of medical conditions.
- Accurately recording patient vital signs and updating medical records.
- Administering medications with a high degree of precision.
- Managing laboratory and radiology orders, ensuring all results are tracked to completion.
- Educating families and patients on treatment plans and medication adherence.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship status.
- Active state or territory licensure as a practical or vocational nurse.
- One year of specialized experience in a professional medical facility.
- Ability to pass mandatory drug testing.
- Willingness to serve as a mission-essential employee during emergencies.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a highly competitive salary range and the security of a federal government role. Use the table below for a quick snapshot of the compensation and expectations.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $54,373 – $70,686 |
| Location | Fort Hood, Texas |
| Status | Full-Time, Mission-Essential |
| Security Clearance | Not Required |
Application Tips
Success in the federal application process requires attention to detail. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less, as longer documents are automatically removed from consideration. Clearly articulate your hours worked per week to verify your experience level. Always double-check that your license documentation is attached, as missing paperwork is the most common reason for disqualification.
Providing care to military families is a unique calling. If you are an experienced nurse ready to transition into a stable, mission-driven environment, we encourage you to apply to the DHA today. Help us maintain readiness and health for those who serve.
Why This Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on military health. Join the Defense Health Agency as a Practical Nurse and provide essential outpatient care for our nation's heroes and their families.
Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Practical Nurse for a vital role in the outpatient clinical environment at Fort Hood, Texas. As part of an integrated healthcare system, you will provide critical support to uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. This position offers the opportunity to practice your clinical skills in a collaborative, mission-driven environment where patient care and readiness are the top priorities.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Outpatient)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold a current, active license as a practical or vocational nurse in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia (or have applied for such licensure).
- Possess one year of specialized nursing experience in a hospital, outpatient clinic, nursing home, or similar medical facility.
- Must be able to pass a drug test.
- Ability to work in a setting designated as mission-essential during emergencies or natural disasters.
- Willingness to wear a uniform and/or protective clothing as required by the facility.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Outpatient)
- Proven proficiency in recording patient vital signs and managing medical documentation.
- Strong communication skills for patient and family education regarding treatment plans.
- Experience in coordinating laboratory, radiology, and referral order tracking.
- Demonstrated ability to perform clinical tasks with independence and accuracy.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with potential for negotiation for new hires.
- ✓Potential recruitment or relocation incentive for qualified candidates.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Opportunities to serve those who serve our country in a supportive healthcare environment.
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Outpatient) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including your nursing license and relevant transcripts.
- Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM (EST) on October 26, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages or less; longer resumes will result in immediate disqualification.
- Clearly state hours worked per week for each role to demonstrate your one year of specialized experience.
- Avoid acronyms and industry jargon; use plain language to describe your accomplishments.
- Verify that your application status is confirmed in your USAJOBS dashboard after submission.
- Ensure all uploaded documents clear the system's virus scan before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the required experience?
No. For this specific position, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone.
What happens if my license is currently in the application process?
You may be appointed pending licensure, but you must obtain your license during the probationary period to remain in the position.
Is telework available for this role?
No, this position is not eligible for telework as it requires on-site patient care.
What if I have more than two pages of experience?
*A: You must condense your relevant experience into a two-page format to ensure your application remains valid.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: While not guaranteed, the position mentions that relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.*
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The DHA is an integrated healthcare system responsible for delivering medical, dental, and pharmacy services to over 9.5 million beneficiaries, including active-duty service members, retirees, and their families. Our mission is to build readiness and improve health through inspired professional care. By joining us, you become a critical partner in the global support system for our armed forces.