Advance Your Nursing Career: Occupational Health Nurse Opportunities in Port Hueneme
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to transition into a vital, mission-driven environment? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Occupational Health Nurse to join their team in Port Hueneme, California. This role is essential to maintaining the health and safety of our nation's military members and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As an Occupational Health Nurse, your daily contributions will impact the long-term health of the workforce. Key duties include:
- Performing medical and occupational history reviews and screenings.
- Diagnosing and treating occupational injuries and illnesses.
- Conducting site visits to identify health hazards.
- Developing educational programs on workplace safety and substance hazards.
- Participating in facility quality assurance and peer review programs.
Requirements
You must be a U.S. citizen and possess an active, unrestricted nursing license. Educational requirements include a degree from an accredited professional nursing program. Candidates must have passed the NCLEX and demonstrate at least one year of professional nursing experience at or above the GS-9 level.
Comparison: General Nurse vs. Occupational Health Nurse
| Feature | General Nurse | Occupational Health Nurse |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Clinical/Hospital Wards | Occupational/Workplace Environment |
| Focus | Patient bedside care | Disease/Injury prevention & Safety |
| Scope | Broad medical focus | Environmental & Regulatory hazards |
| Patient Base | Acute/Chronic patients | Employees & Military personnel |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $125,365 to $159,222 annually, commensurate with experience and locality pay. Employees enjoy federal benefits, including comprehensive insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.
Application Tips
Success in federal hiring depends on precision. Keep your resume under two pages, be explicit about your nursing hours, and ensure your transcripts are attached. Missing documentation is the most common reason for disqualification.
What is the probation period?
There is a mandatory one-year probationary period.
If you are a nurse who values safety, prevention, and supporting a military mission, this role at the DHA is an ideal career step. Apply today to secure your place in a team dedicated to excellence.
Why This Nurse (Occupational Health) Job Matters
Advance your nursing career with the Defense Health Agency in beautiful Port Hueneme, where your expertise directly supports the health and readiness of those who serve our nation.
Nurse (Occupational Health) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Occupational Health Nurse to join the Family Health Department in Port Hueneme, California. This role is a vital component of a premier integrated health care system, ensuring the wellness of military personnel and their families. As a clinical expert, you will bridge the gap between patient care and workplace safety, managing occupational health programs while providing high-quality nursing assessments and education.
Requirements for Nurse (Occupational Health)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Active, unrestricted professional nursing license
- Graduate or higher-level degree in Nursing (or diploma/associate degree with one year of specialized experience)
- Successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
- Ability to perform occupational health assessments and workplace hazard evaluations
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
- Successful completion of a mandatory drug test
- Submission of transcripts and all necessary professional certifications
Preferred Qualifications for Nurse (Occupational Health)
- Professional nursing experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level or higher
- Strong background in performing occupational health screenings and injury management
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement health and safety education programs
- Expertise in Federal Hazard Communication Standards and workplace safety compliance
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Stability of federal employment with mission-critical status
💡 How to Apply Nurse (Occupational Health) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nurse (Occupational Health) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, clearly documenting relevant nursing experience.
- Gather your nursing license, academic transcripts, and other supporting documentation.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
- Ensure your application package is submitted before the closing date of November 3, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; longer resumes will be excluded from consideration.
- Use plain language to describe your experience and avoid obscure acronyms.
- Verify that your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show your degree and the accreditation of your nursing program.
- Double-check your application for completeness before hitting submit, as incomplete packages will not be reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework available for this position?
No, this position is not eligible for telework and is designated as Mission Essential, requiring on-site reporting during emergencies.
What level of security clearance is required?
This position requires a Secret security clearance and is designated as a Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk position.
Can I negotiate my salary?
Salary negotiation may be available for candidates who are new to Federal service.
Does this position require a drug test?
Yes, as a safety-sensitive role, a drug test is required.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system that delivers medical services across the Department of Defense. With a reach that spans the globe, the agency is committed to ensuring readiness for the Joint Force and providing high-quality care to over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. Working here means more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of those who protect our country.