Advance Your Career as a Behavioral Health Nurse with the VA
Are you a Registered Nurse dedicated to patient-centered, compassionate care? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for a skilled Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) Nurse to join our team in Chesapeake, Virginia. This role offers more than just a paycheck; it provides an opportunity to serve those who have sacrificed for our nation while enjoying the stability of a federal career.
About the Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We are committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining our team, you become part of a professional culture that prioritizes recovery, holistic health, and collaborative medicine.
Job Responsibilities
As a BHIP Nurse, you will serve as a vital link in the mental health recovery process for our Veterans. Your duties will include:
- Providing direct care to patients with disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance dependence.
- Participating in interdisciplinary team meetings and clinical huddles.
- Administering medications as directed by providers.
- Performing triage and risk assessments.
- Acting as a front-line responder for clinical inquiries.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A graduate of an accredited nursing program (ACEN or CCNE).
- Licensure: A current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license.
- Proficiency: Must be proficient in basic written and spoken English.
- Professionalism: Ability to maintain boundaries and ensure patient safety.
Salary and Grade Determination
The compensation for this role is highly competitive, ranging from $83,487 to $160,426 per year. Your exact starting salary will be determined based on your education, years of professional experience, and the five dimensions of VHA nursing practice (Practice, Veteran/Patient Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice).
Grade Comparison Table
| Position Level | Required Education | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN or Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | BSN or ADN + 1 yr | 1 year (specialized) |
| Nurse I, Level III | BSN/MSN | 1-2 years |
| Nurse II | BSN/MSN/Doctorate | 1-2 years |
| Nurse III | MSN/Doctorate | 2 years (advanced) |
Benefits Overview
Beyond salary, the VA offers a robust benefits package, including:
- EDRP: Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
- Leave: 50 days of paid time off per year (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays).
- Retirement: Federal pension plus a 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with up to 5% agency matching.
- Insurance: Full selection of federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care plans.
Application Tips
Applying for federal positions requires precision. Ensure your long-form resume clearly highlights your clinical expertise and any leadership or quality improvement initiatives you have led. Because the VA uses a structured evaluation process, never assume the hiring committee knows your skills—spell them out clearly in your experience descriptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this a remote position?
No, this position requires on-site work at the Chesapeake VA Clinic.
Can I still apply if my nursing license is from another state?
Yes, a full and unrestricted license from any U.S. state or territory is accepted.
How will I be notified of my application status?
You will receive email updates through the USAJOBS system regarding your referral status and final selection decisions.
This role is an excellent opportunity for nurses seeking to balance clinical rigor with a mission-driven environment. If you meet the requirements, we encourage you to submit your application by October 29, 2026, and join us in serving America's Veterans.
Why This Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Nurse Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served. Join our interdisciplinary behavioral health team in Chesapeake and help Veterans navigate their path to recovery with expert nursing care.
Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Nurse Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) Nurse to join our outpatient clinic in Chesapeake, Virginia. This role is ideal for a compassionate RN who excels at providing patient-centered care for Veterans struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance dependence. As a front-line healthcare professional, you will coordinate care, administer treatments, and ensure Veterans receive the high-quality support they deserve.
Requirements for Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Nurse
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. state, territory, or district
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited professional nursing school
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Completion of a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Nurse
- 2-3 years of direct patient care experience in a mental health setting
- Strong communication and de-escalation skills
- Experience with recovery-oriented nursing and interdisciplinary collaboration
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 annual leave, 13 sick leave, 11 Federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health, Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance
- ✓Traditional Federal Pension with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401(k) retirement plan with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Competitive salary with regular pay increases and performance awards
💡 How to Apply Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Nurse Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather required documentation (resume, transcripts, licenses).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of October 29, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview invitations.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes detailed descriptions of your nursing experience mapped to the five VHA practice dimensions.
- Be specific regarding your mental health experience as this is a key factor in grade determination.
- Submit all required documents, including DD-214s if claiming Veterans' Preference, to avoid disqualification.
- Double-check that your professional license is active and unrestricted before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers reimbursement for qualified student loans up to $200,000.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The position operates on a standard Monday-Friday schedule from 08:00 to 16:30.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
U.S. citizens are preferred. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.