Advance Your Career: Special Care Unit RN at VA Maine Healthcare System
Are you a compassionate and skilled nurse looking for a career that makes a lasting impact? The VA Maine Healthcare System in Togus is currently seeking a dedicated Staff Nurse to join our Special Care Unit. This position is a gateway to a rewarding career in one of the nation's most advanced healthcare networks.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Nurse in the Special Care Unit, you will provide critical care to patients with life-threatening conditions. Your primary duties include:
- Coordinating the full nursing process from assessment to evaluation.
- Administering specialized medications and clinical procedures.
- Utilizing invasive and non-invasive monitoring technologies to ensure patient safety.
- Mentoring junior nursing staff and contributing to interdisciplinary team goals.
- Leading evidence-based quality improvement initiatives.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess a degree from an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing program.
- Maintain a current, unrestricted nursing license.
- Demonstrate English language proficiency.
- Pass a pre-employment physical and background check.
Grade Determination Table
| Level | Required Education | Experience Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I, Level I | ADN/Diploma | None |
| Nurse I, Level II | ADN/Diploma or BSN | 1 Year Specialized |
| Nurse II | BSN or Higher | 2+ Years Specialized |
| Nurse III | MSN or Higher | 2+ Years Specialized |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a highly competitive salary range between $79,904 and $139,497 per year. In addition to a robust salary, the VA offers:
- Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): Get help paying off student loans (up to $200,000).
- Generous Leave: Enjoy 50 days of total paid time off annually.
- Security: Access to traditional federal pensions and 401(k) matching.
- Flexibility: Predictable scheduling and excellent health/dental insurance options.
Application Tips
Success in your application begins with a detailed, professional resume. Ensure you clearly outline your nursing duties, dates of employment, and total hours worked per week. During the online assessment, be candid about your experience, as your resume will be verified against your answers. If you are eligible for Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD-214 is included in your application package.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is relocation assistance offered? A: No, relocation/recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Q: Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen? A: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
Q: Are there opportunities for growth? A: Absolutely. As a VA professional, you will have access to professional development, leadership training, and a wide array of career opportunities across the national VA system.
Serving our Veterans is more than a job—it is a mission. If you are a dedicated nurse looking to practice at the top of your license in a supportive, high-tech, and benefits-rich environment, we invite you to apply for the Staff Nurse position in the Special Care Unit in Togus, Maine today.
Why This Rn Staff-Special Care Unit Job Matters
Advance your nursing career at the heart of veteran care in Togus, Maine, where clinical excellence meets a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Rn Staff-Special Care Unit Job Overview
The VA Maine Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse for the Special Care Unit. This critical role involves delivering high-quality, life-saving care to acutely and critically ill patients. You will join an interdisciplinary team committed to the 'I CARE' core values, managing complex care plans while utilizing advanced medical technologies. This is a unique opportunity for nurses looking to combine their clinical expertise with a deep commitment to serving those who have served our nation.
Requirements for Rn Staff-Special Care Unit
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply under specific policies).
- English language proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking.
- Graduate of a nursing program accredited by ACEN or CCNE.
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing license in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation and drug screening.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Rn Staff-Special Care Unit
- At least 2 years of professional critical care nursing experience.
- Advanced nursing degrees (BSN, MSN, or Doctoral) in nursing or a related field.
- Proven experience in managing patients with life-threatening health conditions.
- Demonstrated ability in interdisciplinary collaboration and quality improvement initiatives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan.
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Predictable scheduling and career advancement opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Rn Staff-Special Care Unit Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Rn Staff-Special Care Unit Job
- Create or log in to your account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume documenting your nursing experience, education, and hours worked per week.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including transcripts and professional nursing licenses.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of November 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Detail your nursing experience clearly; do not leave the hiring team to make assumptions.
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Be sure your education information is fully documented, including school name and degree conferral dates.
- Verify that your license information is accurate and matches your supporting documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP). Eligibility and award amounts are determined after a formal review of your application.
What is the work schedule?
The position involves rotating holidays and weekends with a shift time of 7:30 PM to 8:00 AM.
Can I apply if I am a recent nursing graduate?
Yes, the VA offers various grade levels (Nurse I, Level I, etc.) based on education and experience. Please refer to the specific grade determination criteria in the job announcement.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served our country and their families. At the VA Maine Healthcare System, our core values of Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE) drive everything we do. We provide a technologically advanced environment where nursing professionals can flourish while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.