Advance Your Nursing Career at Madigan Army Medical Center
Are you a dedicated Practical Nurse looking to transition into a high-impact role? The Department of Defense, through the Defense Health Agency (DHA), is currently hiring a Practical Nurse (Surgical) at the renowned Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. This position is a unique opportunity to provide top-tier care for service members, retirees, and their families within an integrated, world-class healthcare system.
Job Responsibilities
As a Surgical Practical Nurse, your day-to-day duties will be critical to the efficiency of the Department of Surgery. You will:
- Provide comprehensive nursing care in specialty surgical and outpatient settings.
- Assist surgeons during complex therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
- Manage sterile environments, ensuring instruments and equipment are ready for use.
- Monitor patient vital signs and physical condition during and after anesthesia.
- Administer medication via various routes, including intramuscular and subcutaneous.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-06 level position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Licensure: You must hold a valid, current license as a practical or vocational nurse in the U.S. or its territories.
- Experience: One year of specialized nursing experience in a clinical or hospital setting that includes sterile technique knowledge.
- Documentation: A two-page maximum resume is mandatory. Resumes exceeding this limit will be automatically rejected.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement Type | Essential Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | 1 Year of specialized experience required |
| Licensure | Mandatory proof required at time of application |
| Education | No substitution allowed for experience |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $66,453 to $86,388, depending on experience and locality. Federal employment also comes with a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance plans.
- Generous vacation and paid time off (leave) policies.
- Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses for highly qualified candidates.
Application Tips for Success
Applying for federal jobs can be daunting, but consistency is key. Ensure your resume highlights the exact hours worked per week and provides a clear description of your surgical nursing duties. Because this is a direct hire solicitation, your application package must be complete upon submission. Do not forget to attach your nursing license, as incomplete packages will not be considered.
The role of a Practical Nurse (Surgical) at Madigan Army Medical Center is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in military healthcare. With competitive pay, job security, and the chance to work in a premier facility, this is an ideal step for any qualified LPN/LVN. Ensure your application is submitted by November 9, 2026, to be considered.
Why This Practical Nurse (Surgical) Job Matters
Launch your healthcare career at Madigan Army Medical Center—where your skills in surgical nursing directly support our nation’s heroes.
Practical Nurse (Surgical) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Practical Nurse (Surgical) to join the Department of Surgery at the prestigious Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. In this role, you will be an integral member of a specialized healthcare team, providing essential nursing care in surgical, pre-operative, and post-operative environments. This is a Direct Hire position offering a competitive salary and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the well-being of service members and their families.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Surgical)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, active license to practice as a practical or vocational nurse in a U.S. State, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Minimum of one year of specialized nursing experience in a hospital, clinic, or supervised patient care facility.
- Proven ability to perform surgical pre- and post-operative procedures and maintain sterile techniques.
- Ability to successfully complete a probationary period.
- Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Surgical)
- Experience in specialized surgical units or vascular departments.
- Demonstrated ability to assist physicians during complex therapeutic or diagnostic surgical procedures.
- Proficiency in administering oral, topical, and injectable medications in a clinical setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance options
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates
- ✓Opportunity for salary negotiation for new federal employees
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Surgical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Surgical) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, including specific hours worked and descriptive duties.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all required documentation, including your nursing license and performance appraisals.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of November 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Include specific start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job entry.
- Ensure your nursing license is clearly attached as an image or PDF; failure to include it will make you ineligible.
- Use plain, clear language and avoid jargon or internal acronyms.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the required experience?
No, this specific position requires one year of relevant, specialized nursing experience. Education cannot be substituted for the experience requirement.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required for this position; however, it is designated as a non-sensitive/low-risk role involving suitability fitness.
What if I haven't received my license yet?
You must have applied for a license and provide proof of that application. You will be required to attain the license during your probationary period to remain employed.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates, though Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not currently authorized.*
Does this position offer telework?
*A: No, this is an in-person, patient-care role that is not eligible for telework.*
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is a joint, integrated Combat Support Agency that enables the Army, Navy, and Air Force medical services to provide a medically ready force and ready medical force. By working at Madigan Army Medical Center, you are joining a mission-driven organization that values excellence, readiness, and the dedicated service of its professionals.