Advance Your Nursing Leadership Career as an Operating Room Nurse Manager at VA Palo Alto
Are you a dedicated nurse leader looking to impact the lives of those who served our country? The VA Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS) is currently seeking a highly skilled Operating Room Nurse Manager to join our prestigious perioperative team. This is a critical leadership role for a professional who thrives in high-stakes, multidisciplinary environments and is passionate about delivering world-class care.
Job Responsibilities
As the Operating Room Nurse Manager, you will report directly to the Chief Nurse of Perioperative Services. Your responsibilities will include:
- Operational Leadership: Directing the daily administration and nursing care evaluations for the OR.
- Resource Management: Coordinating staffing, physical facilities, supplies, and equipment on a 24/7 basis.
- Strategic Development: Collaborating with the Chief of Surgery and other service chiefs to implement cost-effective systems that enhance patient outcomes.
- Clinical Excellence: Utilizing System Redesign principles to monitor and improve nursing efficiency and patient care quality.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Graduate of an accredited professional nursing program.
- Licensure: Hold a full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. State or Territory.
- Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in English.
- Compliance: Must pass a physical, drug screen, and background investigation.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range designed to attract top-tier talent in the nursing field.
| Position Title | Salary Range (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Operating Room Nurse Manager | $153,887 - $228,000 |
Benefits
VA employees enjoy a "Total Rewards" package that sets the federal standard for career stability and work-life balance:
- Paid Time Off: 50 days of total leave per year (26 annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays).
- Retirement: Federal pension plan plus a 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with up to 5% agency matching.
- Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision programs that can extend into retirement.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for regular salary increases and professional performance awards.
Application Tips
When applying, pay close attention to the "Five Dimensions of Nursing." Your resume should explicitly address:
- Nursing Practice
- Veteran/Patient Driven Care
- Leadership
- Professional Development
- Evidence-Based Practice
Avoid generic resumes. Tailor your documents to highlight specific achievements related to OR management, fiscal responsibility, and team mentorship.
Serving as an Operating Room Nurse Manager at the VA Palo Alto is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and a tribute to our nation's Veterans. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to take the next step in your management career, we invite you to apply through the USAJOBS portal today.
Why This Operating Room Nurse Manager Job Matters
Lead a team of perioperative professionals and drive excellence in patient care at one of the nation's premier teaching hospitals in the heart of Palo Alto.
Operating Room Nurse Manager Job Overview
The VA Palo Alto Health Care System is seeking an experienced and dedicated Operating Room Nurse Manager to provide clinical leadership and operational oversight for our perioperative services. As a key member of the Nursing Perioperative Management Team, you will partner with surgical leadership to manage staffing, resource allocation, and quality improvement initiatives, ensuring that our nation's Veterans receive compassionate, high-quality surgical care in a state-of-the-art environment.
Requirements for Operating Room Nurse Manager
- U.S. Citizenship (or recruitment of qualified citizens if unavailable)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Graduate of a school of professional nursing approved by ACEN or CCNE
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN licensure in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination program requirements
- Subject to background and security investigations
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Operating Room Nurse Manager
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a healthcare-related Master's degree
- Doctoral degree in Nursing or a related field
- Minimum of 5 years of professional RN experience
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in an OR or Post Anesthesia Recovery Unit
- Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) certification
- Demonstrated leadership in multidisciplinary tertiary care settings
- Advanced critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases
- ✓Performance-based bonuses
- ✓50 days of paid time off (26 days annual, 13 sick, 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan
- ✓Federal 401(k) plan with up to 5% matching
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Life insurance and long-term care options
💡 How to Apply Operating Room Nurse Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Operating Room Nurse Manager Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and preview the online questionnaire.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (license, transcripts, etc.).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire and upload all necessary documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- Check your application status via your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Be detailed and specific about your nursing experience; do not assume the recruiter knows your background.
- Ensure your resume reflects the five dimensions of nursing: Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Research.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before hitting submit.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview invitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the OR Nurse Manager?
The Manager oversees the administration, personnel management, and daily operations of the Operating Room, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective patient care 24/7.
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Palo Alto, California, and does not support telework.
Are there specific education requirements for different grade levels?
Yes, requirements range from an Associate degree for entry-level nursing to a Master's or Doctoral degree for higher-level leadership positions, depending on years of experience.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise: to care for those who have served and their families. As part of the VA Sierra Pacific Network, the Palo Alto facility is a world-class teaching hospital affiliated with the Stanford University School of Medicine. We provide comprehensive care ranging from primary to tertiary services, fueled by cutting-edge research and innovation.