Launch Your Healthcare Career at the Lt. Col. Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center
Are you looking for a role that combines professional clinical growth with a deep sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is currently hiring motivated and compassionate Nursing Assistants. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who have served our country while working in a high-standards clinical environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant, you will be the backbone of the patient care team. Your daily tasks will include:
- Performing prescribed medical treatments such as glucose monitoring and simple dressing changes.
- Observing and reporting subtle changes in patient behavior, mood, or physical condition.
- Assisting patients with daily living activities while promoting independence and dignity.
- Utilizing medical equipment, including oxygen delivery systems and suction devices.
- Documenting patient data accurately in the electronic medical record.
- Participating in interdisciplinary treatment planning meetings.
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive service position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the basic experience or education requirements. Applicants at the GS-05 level must demonstrate progressive experience equivalent to the GS-04 level or hold a relevant bachelor's degree.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Level | Experience Required | Education Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| GS-03 | Basic eligibility | 1 year of post-high school education |
| GS-04 | 1 year specialized experience | 2 years of related college study |
| GS-05 | 1 year at GS-04 level | Bachelor's degree (related field) |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $37,350 to $60,982 per year. Beyond the salary, VA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous annual leave and sick time accrual.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Opportunities for career advancement within the federal system.
Application Tips
Success in the federal hiring process requires precision. Make sure your resume clearly describes your duties in each previous role, including the number of hours worked per week. Address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) mentioned in the announcement, and always provide transcripts if you are using education to qualify.
Joining the Ann Arbor VA team as a Nursing Assistant is a significant step toward a stable, impactful career. If you are ready to apply your clinical skills to support our veterans, we encourage you to submit your application via the official USAJOBS platform before November 2, 2026.
Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who served our nation by joining the dedicated healthcare team at the Lt. Col. Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center.
Nursing Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a compassionate and skilled Nursing Assistant to join our patient care team in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In this vital role, you will provide essential support to veterans receiving a wide range of care—from acute and chronic treatment to hospice and home-based services. You will work closely with registered nurses and other clinical staff to ensure our veterans receive the high-quality, whole-person care they deserve.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions may apply per VA policy).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
- Mandatory drug testing for designated positions.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Completion of a one or two-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant
- Experience providing direct patient care in acute, sub-acute, or long-term care settings.
- Proficiency with medical equipment such as bladder scanners, glucose monitors, and oxygen systems.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with interdisciplinary teams and veterans' families.
- Ability to handle stressful, emergent clinical situations with composure and technical accuracy.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical training.
- ✓Stability of federal government employment.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job
- Create or update your profile on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume highlighting your specific nursing experience and skills.
- Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts and any applicable certifications or DD-214.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the job description.
- Be specific about the number of hours worked per week for all positions to ensure your experience is credited correctly.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached; incomplete applications will not be processed.
- Review your application status frequently through the USAJOBS portal for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work schedule for this position?
This role requires a Monday through Friday schedule, typically from 11:30 AM to 8:00 AM, with alternating weekends and holidays.
Can I qualify with education instead of work experience?
Yes, depending on the grade level, relevant college coursework or completion of specialized nursing training programs can be substituted for experience.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Is a drug test required?
Yes, as a testing-designated position, you will be subject to a urinalysis prior to appointment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise: to care for those who have served in our nation's military and their families. At the Ann Arbor VA Medical Center, we embrace a 'Whole Health' approach, focusing on personalized health plans that empower veterans to take charge of their well-being.