Launch Your Nursing Career with the Veterans Health Administration
Are you a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) looking to serve those who have served our country? The Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System is currently hiring for an LPN position in Hammond, Louisiana. This is a unique opportunity to join a compassionate team, advance your clinical skills, and enjoy the stability and comprehensive benefits of a federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPN within the outpatient primary care setting, your role is essential to our clinical operations. You will be responsible for:
- Performing nursing care based on patient conditions and established care plans.
- Administering medications (oral, topical, SC, IM, and IV) and monitoring patient responses.
- Assisting providers with complex diagnostic tests and specialized procedures.
- Educating patients and families on disease management and prescribed treatments.
- Recognizing and responding to urgent or emergent patient care needs.
- Maintaining detailed documentation and fostering a culture of privacy and dignity.
Qualifications
To be considered, you must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Licensure: A current, full, active, and unrestricted license as an LPN/LVN in a U.S. state or territory.
- Education: Graduation from an approved school of practical or vocational nursing.
- Proficiency: Must be proficient in both written and spoken English.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range consistent with federal GS scales. Your starting pay will be commensurate with your experience and demonstrated clinical competence.
| Grade Level | Key Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-03 | Entry level, focus on basic patient care under routine review. |
| GS-04 | Requires 6+ months experience; demonstrates greater independent judgment. |
| GS-05 | Requires 1+ year at GS-4; broad knowledge of clinical procedures. |
| GS-06 | Full performance level; technically proficient in complex duties. |
Benefits
Federal employment at the VA comes with a robust total rewards package, including:
- Work-Life Balance: 13–26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year.
- Retirement Security: Traditional pension plans combined with 401k-style savings.
- Health Coverage: Access to high-quality, affordable federal insurance plans.
- Family Support: Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave and available childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
To ensure your application stands out, follow these tips:
- Detail Your Resume: Include the name of the facility, your specific duties, and the start/end dates (month/year) for every job listed.
- Submit All Documents: Don't forget your nursing license, transcripts, and any applicable SF-50 forms if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Review the Questionnaire: The online questionnaire is part of the evaluation—ensure your answers align with your stated experience.
If you are ready to take the next step in your nursing career, the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System offers a rewarding environment where your work directly honors our Veterans. Apply today to begin your journey with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why This Licensed Practical Nurse Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country while advancing your nursing career with the Veterans Health Administration in Hammond, Louisiana.
Licensed Practical Nurse Job Overview
The Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System is seeking a dedicated and technically proficient Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to join our outpatient clinical team. In this role, you will provide compassionate, high-quality patient care under the guidance of registered nurses and medical providers. You will play a vital role in our mission to honor Veterans by ensuring efficient clinical operations, supporting patient health education, and contributing to a collaborative, multidisciplinary healthcare environment.
Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a full, active, and unrestricted LPN or LVN license in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Must complete a background and security investigation.
- Required to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Subject to pre-employment drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Practical Nurse
- Experience in outpatient ambulatory and primary care settings.
- Background in outpatient ambulatory specialty care.
- Proficiency in phlebotomy procedures.
- Ability to manage complex diagnostic support duties.
- Proven experience in patient and family education regarding treatment regimes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Paid Time Off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays annually.
- ✓Retirement: Traditional federal pension and 401k-style thrift savings plan with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓Insurance: Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance programs.
- ✓Paid Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave following the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child.
- ✓Child Care Subsidy: Potential eligibility for childcare subsidies for qualified families.
- ✓Credit for Leave: Possible credit toward annual leave accrual based on prior qualifying work or military experience.
💡 How to Apply Licensed Practical Nurse Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Practical Nurse Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume with detailed employment history (including hours worked per week and dates of employment).
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including your nursing license, transcripts, and any applicable SF-50 forms.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly documents specific duties and the dates (month/year) for every nursing position held.
- If you are a veteran or current federal employee, be sure to upload your DD-214 or most recent SF-50 to claim eligibility.
- Double-check your responses to the online questionnaire, as these are used to determine your grade level and qualification.
- Verify your nursing license status is current and active prior to submission.
- Do not leave any required documentation sections blank, as this may disqualify your application from consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected work schedule for this position?
The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, though this is subject to change based on the clinical needs of the facility.
Does this position offer telework?
No, this is an onsite clinical position and is not eligible for telework or remote status.
What grade levels are available?
Positions are available from GS-03 to GS-06, depending on your level of experience and professional qualifications.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, new federal employees are typically required to serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to work here?
This position requires participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to our nation's Veterans. The Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System specifically serves 23 parishes through a network of community-based outpatient clinics. By joining our team, you become part of a mission-driven organization that values excellence, integrity, and honor in every patient interaction.