Nursing Assistant (Mental Health) - Career Opportunity at the South Texas Veterans Health Care System
Are you looking to take the next step in your healthcare career while serving those who have served our nation? The South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) is currently seeking compassionate, dedicated individuals to join our team as a Nursing Assistant with a focus on Mental Health. This position offers a unique blend of clinical challenge, emotional reward, and the security of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As a Mental Health Nursing Assistant, you are the backbone of the patient care unit. Your responsibilities include:
- Clinical Support: Assisting licensed nursing staff with daily patient care, including monitoring vital signs, blood glucose levels, and providing comfort measures.
- Mental Health Focus: Engaging with patients who may be experiencing psychiatric disorders, dementia, or delirium, while maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment.
- Emergency Intervention: Utilizing verbal de-escalation tactics and assisting with emergency response protocols.
- Patient Documentation: Maintaining accurate electronic records regarding patient status and activities.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- English language proficiency (written and spoken).
- Ability to pass a drug screening and background check.
- Commitment to the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Grade Comparison
This position is open to grades GS-03 through GS-05, providing a clear path for professional development.
| Grade Level | Key Focus | Responsibility Level |
|---|---|---|
| GS-03 | Entry Level | Basic patient assistance |
| GS-04 | Intermediate | Intermediate treatments & observation |
| GS-05 | Full Performance | Full range of patient care & precepting |
The salary range for this position is $36,619 – $59,788 per year.
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with an unmatched total rewards package. Employees enjoy a traditional federal pension, a 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with matching contributions, comprehensive health and dental insurance, and significant paid time off, including federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights specific clinical skills, especially if you have experience with psychiatric or behavioral health patients.
- Follow Instructions: Missing a document, such as a transcript or SF-50, is the most common reason for disqualification.
- Focus on Reliability: As this is a 24/7 care facility, emphasize your reliability and ability to work a rotating schedule.
If you have a heart for service and the clinical skills to provide top-tier care to our Veterans, we encourage you to apply. This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide dignity and support to those who protected our freedom.
Why This Nursing Assistant - Mental Health Job Matters
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who served. Join the South Texas Veterans Health Care System as a Mental Health Nursing Assistant and provide compassionate care to our nation's heroes.
Nursing Assistant - Mental Health Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking dedicated and compassionate Nursing Assistants to join the mental health care team in San Antonio, Texas. In this role, you will work closely with licensed nursing staff to support Veterans experiencing a range of medical conditions, with a specific focus on mental health. You will serve as a vital member of an interdisciplinary team, ensuring the safety, comfort, and recovery of our patients in an environment that honors their service and sacrifices.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant - Mental Health
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be proficient in both spoken and written English.
- Completion of a drug screening test prior to appointment.
- Must undergo and pass a background and security investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
- Successful completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant - Mental Health
- Previous professional experience in a mental health or psychiatric clinical setting.
- Prior experience working in an emergency department environment.
- Demonstrated ability to de-escalate aggressive or confused patient behaviors.
- Strong interpersonal skills for working within an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
- Proficiency in basic medical diagnostic tools such as blood glucose monitors and bladder scanners.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Paid parental leave for up to 12 weeks after one year of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.
- ✓Long-term care and life insurance programs.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant - Mental Health Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant - Mental Health Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the job announcement and required documentation list.
- Prepare your long-form resume or CV, ensuring all relevant experience is documented.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents (transcripts, professional licenses, etc.).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your skills based on job titles alone.
- Clearly highlight any volunteer or specialized experience that relates to mental health or nursing care.
- Ensure your contact information is up to date in the USAJOBS system.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before hitting submit.
- Check your email regularly for status notifications and interview requests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this nursing assistant role?
This role focuses on mental health care, assisting patients with psychiatric disorders, dementia, or behavioral needs, while supporting the broader nursing care team.
Are the shifts flexible?
This is a 24/7 facility; you must be prepared to work rotating shifts, which include nights, weekends, and holidays.
What level of education is required?
Requirements vary by grade level (GS-3 to GS-5). Generally, this includes six months of general experience or relevant post-high school education.
What is the work schedule like?
*A: It is a 24/7 facility. You will be expected to work rotating tours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.*
Is there relocation assistance?
*A: No, relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated 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." The South Texas Veterans Health Care System is one of the largest in the nation, serving 35 counties and over 114,000 Veterans. With campuses in San Antonio and Kerrville, the STVHCS is a hub of excellence, affiliated with UT Health San Antonio and providing advanced care across multiple specialties.