Launch Your Healthcare Career: Nursing Assistant Roles at the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical complexity with a profound sense of purpose? The Veterans Health Administration (VA) is currently hiring for a Nursing Assistant (Float Pool) position in Salt Lake City. This role offers more than just a job; it provides an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of those who served our country while gaining invaluable experience in a world-class teaching hospital.
Job Responsibilities
As a Float Pool Nursing Assistant, you will be the backbone of patient care. Your responsibilities include:
- Patient Care: Assisting with personal hygiene, mobility, and nutritional needs.
- Clinical Support: Utilizing glucose monitors, gathering patient data, and performing diagnostic procedures under the direction of an RN.
- Team Collaboration: Working across departments like ICU, Telemetry, and Emergency to ensure the multidisciplinary treatment plan is followed.
- Safety: Maintaining a safe environment, using proper body mechanics, and safeguarding patient privacy.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
- Adherence to the annual influenza vaccination program.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade | Experience Required | Education Required |
|---|---|---|
| GS-3 | Basic | None beyond basic |
| GS-4 | 1 Year Specialized | 2 Years above HS |
| GS-5 | 1 Year GS-4 equivalent | Bachelor's Degree |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $40,110 to $65,488, depending on qualifications and grade level. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Generous Paid Time Off: Earn up to 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays.
- Retirement: Benefit from a traditional federal pension and a 401(k) (TSP) plan.
- Support: Access to childcare subsidies and paid parental leave after your first year.
Application Tips
Don't let a generic resume hold you back. Clearly document your previous experience in medical settings, including any volunteer work or clinical rotations. Ensure all documents—especially transcripts and previous performance appraisals—are attached in the correct format to avoid disqualification. Review your application questionnaire carefully before submitting.
If you are a dedicated, flexible, and compassionate individual looking to make a difference, the VA Salt Lake City Health Care System is the ideal place to start or grow your career. Join us in our mission to serve the heroes who served us.
Why This Nursing Assistant-Float Pool Job Matters
Launch your healthcare career at the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center, where every shift directly honors those who served our nation.
Nursing Assistant-Float Pool Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking dedicated Nursing Assistants to join a dynamic Float Pool in Salt Lake City, Utah. In this essential role, you will provide critical support across diverse departments including ICU, Emergency, and Telemetry. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain exposure to various clinical environments while delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. Whether you are beginning your nursing journey or looking to expand your expertise in a high-impact medical setting, our team provides the environment, training, and support to grow your career.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant-Float Pool
- United States Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Completion of a background and security investigation
- Pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Successful completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant-Float Pool
- One year of professional experience as a Nurse Assistant or in a related healthcare field
- Demonstrated ability to perform intermediate medical treatments and diagnostics
- Strong communication skills for interacting with interdisciplinary teams and veterans
- Capacity to work effectively in high-stress clinical environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“37-50 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- âś“Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- âś“Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching
- âś“Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- âś“Childcare subsidies for eligible employees
đź’ˇ How to Apply Nursing Assistant-Float Pool Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant-Float Pool Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume and gather supporting documents (SF-50, transcripts, etc.).
- Access the online application portal via the link provided.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire thoroughly.
- Upload all required documentation, ensuring all eligibility requirements are met.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific and detailed in your resume; do not rely on the hiring team to make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your resume reflects both paid and volunteer work if applicable to the role.
- Check for status updates periodically by logging into your USAJOBS profile.
- Double-check that all mandatory documents (transcripts, certificates, etc.) are attached before submission.
- Use the online questionnaire as a guide to highlight the specific KSAs the agency is seeking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Float Pool Nursing Assistant?
You will assist in various medical departments, including the ICU and Emergency Department, by providing direct patient care, collecting vital data, and supporting the nursing staff with daily treatment plans.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation incentives or Permanent Change of Station (PCS) assistance are not authorized for this position.
Are there growth opportunities within this role?
Yes, this position has a promotion potential to the GS-5 level, and employees receive regular training and competency assessments to support professional development.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Salt Lake City Health Care System is dedicated to fulfilling the promise of care for veterans throughout the intermountain west. Serving over 70,000 veterans across Utah, Idaho, and Nevada, the system includes the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center and 10 community clinics. Our environment is intellectually stimulating, supported by research and cutting-edge technology, and nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, a region renowned for its outdoor recreation and vibrant culture.