Launch Your Healthcare Career: Nursing Assistant Roles at the VA

Are you looking to transition into a career where your daily work directly impacts the lives of American heroes? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Nursing Assistant (NA) to join the team at the Veterans Health Administration in Lyons, New Jersey. This is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of providing "whole health" care to those who have served our nation.

Job Responsibilities

As a Nursing Assistant in the Community Living Center (CLC), you will serve as a vital link in the patient care chain. Under the guidance of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), your primary duties will include:

Comprehensive Patient Care: Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), nutrition, mobility, and skin protection.
Monitoring and Reporting: Documenting vital signs, weight, intake/output, and blood glucose, while reporting any subtle changes in a Veteran's condition to your supervisor.
Dementia & Behavioral Care: Using non-pharmacological interventions, redirection, and de-escalation techniques to support Veterans with cognitive impairments.
Clinical Support: Performing validated procedures such as simple dressings, ostomy care, and suctioning, as authorized.
Hospice Support: Providing comfort and dignity to Veterans and their families during end-of-life care.

Requirements

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

Requirement Type	Criteria
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Experience	Min 6 months general or 1 year related education
Physical	Must pass pre-employment physical exam
Language	Proficient in written and spoken English
Compliance	Subject to drug testing and background investigation

Salary and Benefits

The VA offers a highly competitive compensation package designed to support both your professional and personal life. The salary for this position ranges from $38,223 to $62,407 per year, depending on qualifications.

Benefits Overview

Generous Leave: Enjoy up to 37-50 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday pay.
Work-Life Balance: Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after your first year.
Financial Security: Access to a federal pension and a 401K-style plan with employer contributions.
Wellness: Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance plans that often continue into retirement.

Application Tips for Success

Applying to the federal government is a rigorous process. To stand out:

Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume uses descriptive, results-oriented language. Don't just list tasks; describe the impact of your clinical care.
Document Everything: If you are using education to qualify, ensure transcripts are attached. If you are a veteran, include your DD-214.
Review the Questionnaire: The USAJOBS application includes a self-assessment questionnaire. Read every question carefully to ensure your experience supports your responses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an opportunity for career growth? A: Yes, this position is part of a career ladder (GS-3 to GS-5), offering potential for advancement based on performance and experience.

Q: What is the trial period? A: All new hires are subject to a two-year trial period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.

Q: Do I need specialized certifications? A: While some NAs hold certification, the basic requirement is either 6 months of experience or relevant education as defined in the qualification standards.

Joining the VA in Lyons, New Jersey, is a unique opportunity to apply your clinical skills in a mission-focused environment. If you are ready to serve those who have served us, we encourage you to review the full details and submit your application package before the November 9, 2026, deadline.

Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters

Make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who served. Join the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Nursing Assistant and provide compassionate, Veteran-centered care in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Nursing Assistant Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Nursing Assistant to join the Community Living Center in Lyons, New Jersey. This role is pivotal in delivering comprehensive patient care to Veterans with diverse needs, including long-term care, sub-acute rehabilitation, and palliative support. You will work alongside an interdisciplinary team to ensure that our Veterans receive the high-quality, dignified care they deserve, promoting independence and comfort every day.

Requirements for Nursing Assistant

U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply under VA policy).
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Completion of six months of general experience OR one year of education above high school in a health-related field.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance/suitability.
Completion of a two-year trial period.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant

Experience in long-term care, hospice, or dementia care environments.
Proven ability to assist in the full range of nursing care under the guidance of an RN or LPN.
Demonstrated competence in technical skills such as blood glucose monitoring, vital signs, and specimen collection.
Experience with behavioral de-escalation and emergency intervention.
Ability to serve as a preceptor for new staff.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary with regular increases.
✓Generous paid time off (up to 37-50 days total annually).
✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
✓Federal retirement pension and 401K-style savings plan with employer matching.
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Childcare subsidy for qualifying employees.
✓Long-term care and term life insurance.

💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a detailed, long-form resume highlighting your clinical and general experience.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload required documents, including transcripts, licenses, and DD-214 if applicable.
Submit your application package before the closing date of November 9, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your experience.
Ensure your documentation clearly maps to the KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) listed in the job description.
Verify your eligibility documents (SF-50, etc.) are up to date.
Double-check your submission before the deadline, as incomplete applications will not be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the work schedule for this position?

This position requires working alternating weekends with shifts between 12:00 AM and 8:00 AM.

Can I qualify if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Non-citizens may only be appointed if it is not possible to recruit qualified U.S. citizens, in accordance with strict VA policy.

What level of education is required for the GS-5 grade level?

GS-5 requires a four-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor's degree, including at least 24 semester hours of health-care related courses.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VA is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working here means joining a culture of excellence, where interdisciplinary teams collaborate to provide the highest standard of care in environments ranging from acute hospitals to specialized long-term care facilities.