Advance Your Nursing Career with the Veterans Health Administration in Portland
Are you a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) looking to combine your clinical expertise with a mission-driven career? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Portland, Oregon, is currently seeking compassionate professionals to join their Specialty Care Clinics. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide world-class healthcare to the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPN within the Specialty Care division, your role will involve:
- Patient Care: Providing high-quality practical nursing care for patients in Medicine, Surgery, and Neurology clinics.
- Technical Proficiency: Accurately administering medications (oral, topical, IV, etc.) and performing treatments according to facility policy.
- Clinical Documentation: Diligently observing and recording patient reactions to medications and treatments.
- Emergency Response: Recognizing urgent clinical situations and assisting in resuscitation or emergency measures alongside RNs and Physicians.
- Education: Teaching patients and family members about disease processes and treatment regimens.
Qualification Comparison
| Grade | Experience Required |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Basic Requirements (LPN License) |
| GS-4 | 6 months experience or specific educational equivalents |
| GS-5 | 1 year at GS-4 level with demonstrated patient care abilities |
| GS-6 | 1 year at GS-5 level; full performance level |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must hold an active, unrestricted license as an LPN/LVN in any U.S. state or territory. You must be a U.S. citizen and meet the educational requirements from an accredited nursing program. Candidates will also be subject to a background check, physical exam, and must participate in the VA’s influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $60,351 to $94,013 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the federal benefits package is substantial:
- Comprehensive Leave: Generous annual, sick, and federal holiday leave policies.
- Insurance: Options for federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care plans.
- Retirement: Traditional pension plan and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching up to 5%.
- Work-Life Balance: Access to paid parental leave and childcare subsidies for eligible employees.
How to Apply
Apply via the official USAJOBS portal. Ensure your application includes a detailed resume, proof of licensure, and any relevant transcripts or military records (DD-214).
Joining the VA in Portland allows you to work in a vibrant city known for its beauty and culture while building a stable, rewarding career in the federal healthcare system. If you are ready to serve those who served us, start your application today.
Why This Licensed Practical Nurse Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Veterans Health Administration as a Licensed Practical Nurse in beautiful Portland, Oregon.
Licensed Practical Nurse Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking dedicated Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs/LVNs) to provide high-quality, compassionate care within the Portland VA Health Care System’s Specialty Care Clinics. As a member of our multidisciplinary team, you will contribute directly to the health and well-being of our Veterans, working across Medicine, Surgery, and Neurology clinics to deliver professional, patient-centered support.
Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse
- U.S. Citizenship
- Graduate of an accredited school of practical or vocational nursing
- Full, active, current, and unrestricted LPN/LVN state licensure
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Practical Nurse
- Minimum 1 year of outpatient clinical experience
- Minimum 6 months of dermatology clinic experience
- Minimum 1 year of professional wound care experience
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- ✓37-50 days of annual paid time off (annual, sick, and holidays)
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Comprehensive retirement plan including a pension and 401(k) with agency match
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- ✓Childcare subsidies for qualified families
- ✓Relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Licensed Practical Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Practical Nurse Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.gov.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and prepare your documents (resume, licenses, transcripts).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation as specified in the Required Documents section.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Be highly specific and detailed in your resume regarding your nursing experience.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; explicitly connect your experience to the duties listed.
- Ensure your licensure information is clearly visible and documented.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents are uploaded before the closing date to avoid disqualification.
- If you have military or volunteer nursing experience, include these details as they count toward your qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected work schedule for this position?
The schedule typically falls between Monday and Friday with shifts such as 0730-1600, 0730-1700, or 0800-1630.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
U.S. citizenship is a requirement for this position; however, exceptions are only made if it is impossible to recruit qualified citizens according to VA policy.
Is this position remote?
No, this is an onsite position requiring physical presence in the Portland, Oregon, clinical environment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working at the Portland VA Health Care System means becoming part of a community that values clinical excellence, continuous learning, and profound respect for patient dignity.