Launch Your Nursing Career at Madigan Army Medical Center
Are you a dedicated nursing professional looking to serve those who protect our nation? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Practical Nurse (OR) for the Ambulatory Procedure Unit at the prestigious Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a world-class healthcare system while advancing your own clinical expertise.
About the Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is a joint, integrated combat support agency that enables the military medical services to provide a medically ready force and a ready medical force. By managing a global network of hospitals and clinics, the DHA ensures that over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families receive consistent, high-quality care. Working within the DHA means joining a community of professionals dedicated to the highest standards of clinical excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As a Practical Nurse (OR) in the Ambulatory Procedure Unit, your primary goal is to provide exceptional perioperative care. Your daily duties will include:
- Surgical Support: Assisting surgeons during procedures and operating specialized operating room equipment.
- Patient Monitoring: Closely observing vital signs during the perioperative phases to ensure immediate intervention if necessary.
- Clinical Care: Updating patient care plans and performing advanced clinical treatments based on medical prescriptions.
- Education: Providing clear, actionable instructions to patients and their families regarding postoperative procedures and medication management.
Comparison: Standard Clinical Nurse vs. Federal OR Practical Nurse
| Feature | Standard Clinical Nurse | Federal OR Practical Nurse (DHA) |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Hospital/Clinic | Military Medical Center |
| Focus | General Patient Care | Perioperative/Surgical Support |
| Benefits | Varies by employer | Federal Benefits Package |
| Retirement | Employer-matched 401k | Federal Employees Retirement System |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Licensure: You must hold a current license to practice as a practical or vocational nurse in any U.S. State or territory.
- Experience: Candidates must possess at least one year of nursing experience in a supervised medical facility that involves sterile techniques and surgical assistance.
- Documentation: You must provide a resume, proof of licensure, and, if applicable, official transcripts.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $66,453 to $86,388 per year. Beyond the base salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, which includes comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement contributions, and generous paid time off. Additionally, highly qualified candidates may be eligible for recruitment or relocation incentives.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit the USAJOBS portal and search for the position announcement. Ensure your application includes a resume of two pages or less and all supporting documentation. The deadline for submission is November 10, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if my resume is longer than two pages? A: Your application will be removed from consideration if the resume exceeds two pages. Please format your experience clearly and concisely.
Q: Is relocation assistance provided? A: Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates, though Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are generally not covered.
Serving as a Practical Nurse (OR) at the Madigan Army Medical Center is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of our military community. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Practical Nurse (Or) Job Matters
Elevate your nursing career by providing world-class surgical support to those who serve at the Madigan Army Medical Center.
Practical Nurse (Or) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Practical Nurse (OR) to join the Surgical Services Ambulatory Procedure Unit at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. This role is a vital component of a premier integrated health care system committed to delivering high-quality medical services to our nation's service members, retirees, and their families. As a member of our clinical team, you will play a crucial role in perioperative care, ensuring patient safety and surgical excellence.
Requirements for Practical Nurse (Or)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Current licensure 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 medical facility.
- Proficiency in sterile techniques, operating room equipment, and patient monitoring.
- Must be able to successfully complete a drug test and credentialing background check.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Practical Nurse (Or)
- Demonstrated experience in a surgical or perioperative setting.
- Strong communication skills for patient and family education.
- Ability to work effectively in a high-paced, team-oriented medical environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with potential locality pay.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the federal retirement system.
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Professional development opportunities within the Department of Defense.
💡 How to Apply Practical Nurse (Or) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Practical Nurse (Or) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting your relevant experience.
- Gather your nursing license or official documentation of licensure application.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts if education is applicable.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 10, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the number of hours worked per week for each experience entry.
- Avoid using unexplained acronyms; use plain language to describe your nursing duties.
- Verify that all uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan before the deadline.
- Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit, or it will be excluded.
- Monitor your USAJOBS dashboard regularly to track your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the required experience?
No, this specific position requires one year of specialized experience. Education cannot be substituted for the experience requirement.
What happens if my license is currently pending?
Non-licensed candidates who have completed their training may be appointed pending licensure, provided they obtain the license during their probationary period.
Is a security clearance required for this role?
A formal security clearance is not required; however, you must undergo a credentialing process as part of the hiring procedure.