Advance Your Nursing Career as a Cardio-Vet Care Manager with the VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Nurse seeking a role that combines clinical excellence with compassionate leadership? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for skilled professionals to join the National CARDIO-VET Network. This is a unique opportunity to serve those who have served our country while working in a high-impact, collaborative environment.
About the National CARDIO-VET Network
The VA’s mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. The CARDIO-VET Network is an integral part of this promise, focusing on a "Whole Health" model of care. This approach prioritizes not just the immediate medical needs of Veterans, but their overall well-being in the context of their home and community.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cardio-Vet Care Manager, you are more than a nurse; you are a navigator and advocate. Key duties include:
- Care Coordination: Managing complex cardiovascular care plans across the Cardiology Hub and Spoke Network.
- Patient Advocacy: Assisting Veterans and their families in selecting the best treatment options.
- Interdisciplinary Teamwork: Working alongside providers to analyze laboratory and radiology results.
- Leadership: Improving clinical outcomes through evidence-based practice and mentoring peer staff.
Education and Grade Requirements
The VA utilizes a structured grade system based on education and experience. Below is a simplified comparison of entry criteria:
| Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None required |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma OR BSN | 1 year (Nurse I, Level I) |
| Nurse II | BSN OR MSN/Doctorate | 2 years (Nurse I, Level III) |
| Nurse III | MSN OR Doctorate | 2 years (Nurse II) |
Salary and Benefits
The VA offers a market-competitive salary range of $78,368 to $153,501 per year, determined by the applicant's experience and degree. Beyond the paycheck, the "Total Rewards" package is exceptional:
- Generous Time Off: 50 days of combined annual, sick, and federal holiday leave.
- Retirement: A robust federal pension system and 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with a 5% agency match.
- Insurance: A variety of premium-subsidized health, vision, and dental plans.
Application Tips for Success
- Be Detailed: Use your resume to describe how you met the five core nursing dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Verify Licensure: Ensure your state license is active and unrestricted.
- Submit Early: Do not wait until the October 28 deadline to submit your questionnaire.
If you are ready to take your nursing career to the next level while supporting America’s Veterans, this role offers the perfect blend of clinical challenge and professional reward. Visit the USAJOBS portal to start your application today.
Why This Nurse (Cardio-Vet Care Manager) Job Matters
Advance your nursing career with the VA's National CARDIO-VET Network, where your clinical expertise directly improves the lives of those who served our nation.
Nurse (Cardio-Vet Care Manager) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated Registered Nurses for Care Manager positions within the CARDIO-VET Network. You will act as a pivotal link for Veterans, coordinating complex cardiovascular care, managing interdisciplinary treatment plans, and ensuring seamless continuity of service. This role emphasizes holistic patient care and requires a professional who can lead improvement efforts within a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for Nurse (Cardio-Vet Care Manager)
- U.S. Citizenship (subject to exceptions based on recruitment needs).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Graduate of an accredited professional nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Valid driver's license (must be REAL ID compliant by May 7, 2025).
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Nurse (Cardio-Vet Care Manager)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher degree in Nursing or a related field.
- Proven experience in complex case management or cardiovascular nursing.
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities in interdisciplinary team environments.
- Expertise in patient advocacy and holistic care planning.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, and dental insurance plans.
- ✓Traditional federal pension program (vested after 5 years).
- ✓Federal 401k-style thrift savings plan with up to 5% employer contribution.
- ✓Generous leave package including 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
- ✓11 paid federal holidays per year.
- ✓Regular salary increases and performance-based award potential.
💡 How to Apply Nurse (Cardio-Vet Care Manager) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nurse (Cardio-Vet Care Manager) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume or CV.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application link.
- Upload required documentation, including licensure and veterans' preference documents if applicable.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of October 28, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; avoid generalizations about your nursing experience.
- Clearly map your experience to the five VHA nursing dimensions: Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Ensure your documentation clearly states dates and character of service if claiming Veterans' Preference.
- Check for REAL ID compliance on your driver's license before applying.
- Submit your application well ahead of the deadline to account for technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Cardio-Vet Care Manager?
You will serve as a lead coordinator for cardiovascular care, assisting Veterans and their families in navigating the VA healthcare system, managing complex treatment plans, and ensuring continuity of care between hubs and spokes.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a virtual position. On-site presence is required, and travel within the network is necessary.
What level of education is required for Nurse II positions?
Nurse II requirements typically include a BSN with two years of specialized experience, an MSN with one year of experience, or a Doctoral degree in nursing.