Advance Your Nursing Career at the VA Bedford Healthcare System

Are you a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) seeking a career that combines clinical excellence with a higher purpose? The VA Bedford Healthcare System is currently recruiting for multiple LPN/LVN positions within our Mental Health service. This is your opportunity to join a premier healthcare organization and serve the veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country.

Job Responsibilities

As an LPN/LVN in our Mental Health department, your responsibilities will be multifaceted. You will:

Collect patient health data and assist in the assessment of status.
Execute delegated portions of the care plan with high technical accuracy.
Administer medications and perform specialized treatments as prescribed.
Provide vital emotional support and health education to patients and families.
Respond to emergency situations, including cardiac or pulmonary distress.
Maintain documentation within our electronic record system.
Adapt to various inpatient units, including psychiatric, residential, and dementia care, as needed.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Licensure: Hold a full, active, unrestricted license in any U.S. jurisdiction.
Education: Graduate of an accredited practical nursing program.
Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
Medical: Ability to pass pre-employment physical exams and drug testing.

Salary Overview

This position is covered by a special salary rate due to its critical nature.

Pay Grade	Salary Range
GS-3 to GS-6	$63,709 - $98,657

Note: Final salary step is determined based on your unique qualifications and experience.

Benefits

Retirement: Traditional pension plan + 401(k) with 5% matching.
Insurance: Extensive health, dental, and vision coverage that follows you into retirement.
Leave: Generous annual leave (13-26 days) and 13 days of sick leave annually.
Flexibility: Access to paid parental leave and childcare subsidies.

Application Tips

Detail is Key: Do not leave out specific hours worked or clinical duties on your resume.
Documentation: Ensure all certifications, transcripts, and SF-50 forms (if applicable) are attached to your application package before submitting.
Follow-Up: Monitor your email frequently for status updates regarding your referral.

If you are ready to elevate your nursing career while supporting those who defended our freedom, the Bedford VA Healthcare System is the place for you. Apply today to start your journey with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Why This Licensed Practical Or Vocational Nurse (Mental Health) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the dedicated Mental Health nursing team at the Bedford VA Healthcare System.

Licensed Practical Or Vocational Nurse (Mental Health) Job Overview

The VA Bedford Healthcare System is seeking compassionate and skilled Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) to support our Mental Health services. In this vital role, you will work across various inpatient units—including mental health, residential rehabilitation, and long-term care—to provide high-quality, patient-centered clinical support. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to deliver care, administer medications, and assist in critical diagnostic procedures for our nation's veterans.

Requirements for Licensed Practical Or Vocational Nurse (Mental Health)

U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
Full, active, current, and unrestricted LPN/LVN license in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C.
Graduate of a state-approved or NLNAC-accredited practical/vocational nursing program.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Must pass pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Background and security investigation clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Practical Or Vocational Nurse (Mental Health)

At least one year of professional experience in a mental health or detoxification clinical setting.
Experience in diverse inpatient units such as hospice, dementia care, or acute psychiatric facilities.
Demonstrated ability to function effectively in high-stress, fast-paced clinical environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance
✓Generous PTO including 13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave
✓11 paid Federal holidays per year
✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees

💡 How to Apply Licensed Practical Or Vocational Nurse (Mental Health) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Licensed Practical Or Vocational Nurse (Mental Health) Job

Create a profile on the USAJobs portal.
Prepare a detailed long-form resume including specific start/end dates and hours worked per week.
Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
Upload required documentation, including your active nursing license, transcripts, and relevant SF-50s (for current/former federal employees).
Submit your complete application package before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details your nursing duties to prove you meet the grade level requirements.
Verify your license is current and upload a clear copy with your application.
Use the 'Builder' feature in USAJobs to ensure no required fields are missed.
Double-check your contact information so recruiters can reach you for interview scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay range for this position?

The salary range is $63,709 to $98,657 per year, depending on grade level and qualifications.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an on-site clinical position requiring presence at the Bedford VA Healthcare System.

Can I work part-time?

This position is full-time (40 hours per week) with various shifts available, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Can I apply if I am not currently working for the VA?

Yes, this position is open to the public as well as federal employees.

Do I need to be vaccinated against the flu?

Yes, annual influenza vaccination is a mandatory condition of employment for all VA clinical personnel.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. We operate on the core values of 'I CARE'—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Working at the Bedford VA means becoming part of a community that values both the patient and the professional. We offer a culture that promotes work-life balance, continuous learning, and meaningful career progression.