Providing Excellence: LPN Opportunities at the Waterloo VA Clinic
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) remains committed to providing world-class healthcare to those who have bravely served our nation. As a Specialty Care Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at the Waterloo VA Clinic, you will be on the front lines of this mission, ensuring that our Veterans receive the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve. This role offers not just a career, but a chance to serve your community in a stable, supportive, and rewarding federal environment.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPN in this specialty role, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Delivering direct patient care, including vitals monitoring and medication administration.
- Assisting providers with complex diagnostic tests and specialized procedures.
- Educating patients and their families regarding treatment plans and disease management.
- Collaborating with an interdisciplinary medical team to ensure safety and quality.
- Acting as a first responder in urgent or emergent clinical situations.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education/Licensure: Completion of an approved practical nursing program and an active, unrestricted LPN/LVN license.
- Proficiency: Must be fluent in written and spoken English.
- Certifications: Active Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Evaluation: Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and background investigation.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-03 | Basic requirements met |
| GS-04 | 6 months of LPN experience or specific educational criteria |
| GS-05 | 1 year at GS-4 level with documented nursing competence |
| GS-06 | 1 year at GS-5 level, demonstrating technical proficiency |
Salary Overview
Positions are compensated within the GS pay scale, offering a range of $39,661 to $62,465 annually. The VA also provides for regular salary increases and the possibility of a higher starting step based on exceptional qualifications or agency needs.
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with an unmatched benefits package, including:
- Student Loan Repayment: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Time Off: Up to 50 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday pay.
- Insurance: Access to robust Federal health, dental, and vision plans.
- Retirement: A dual-track system featuring a traditional pension and a 401(k) with 5% agency matching.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, your resume should be clear and descriptive. Avoid generalities; define your specific experience with procedures, patient populations, and equipment. Because the VA uses a structured evaluation process, including a supplemental KSA document that explicitly addresses the skills required for the specific grade level can significantly strengthen your candidacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is relocation assistance offered? A: No, relocation assistance or permanent change of station (PCS) is not authorized for this position.
Q: Is this a remote position? A: No, this is an onsite role at the Waterloo VA Clinic.
If you are a dedicated nursing professional with a heart for service, this LPN position at the Waterloo VA Clinic offers the perfect blend of clinical challenge and personal reward. We encourage all qualified applicants to review the full details and submit their application before the November 2026 deadline to begin their journey with the VA.
Why This Licensed Practical Nurse - Specialty Care Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the dedicated clinical team at the Waterloo VA Clinic.
Licensed Practical Nurse - Specialty Care Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a compassionate Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to provide high-quality, specialty nursing care in Waterloo, Iowa. This role is an excellent opportunity for dedicated nursing professionals to serve the Veteran community while enjoying federal benefits, career stability, and access to student loan repayment options through the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse - Specialty Care
- U.S. Citizenship
- Active, current, and unrestricted LPN/LVN license in any U.S. state, territory, or district
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Ability to complete all required online onboarding processes
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Practical Nurse - Specialty Care
- Prior clinical experience within an optometry setting
- Demonstrated ability to function effectively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team
- Experience in complex diagnostic test support and specialized clinical procedures
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (Annual leave, sick leave, and 11 Federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs
- ✓Traditional Federal pension and 401(k) retirement savings with 5% matching
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible full-time employees
💡 How to Apply Licensed Practical Nurse - Specialty Care Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Practical Nurse - Specialty Care Job
- Create or log in to a USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather all required documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and any applicable professional certifications or proof of eligibility.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Submit a supplemental document detailing your responses to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed for the grade level you are targeting.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the duties described to avoid assumptions by the hiring team.
- Double-check that your license is currently active and in good standing.
- Include all required supporting documents like your DD-214 or SF-50 if applicable to ensure you receive credit for your eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which offers student loan repayment assistance. Applicants must meet specific criteria and apply within four months of their appointment.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Generally, you must be a U.S. citizen. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The position follows a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, 0800-1630.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Iowa City VA Health Care System serves more than 50,000 Veterans across the region. As part of a vast network that includes eleven VA clinics, the system is deeply integrated with research and academic excellence, notably through its partnership with the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. Joining this team means working within a 'Whole Health' framework, which focuses on empowering Veterans to take charge of their health and well-being.