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Va Nursing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Must be a graduate of a professional nursing program approved by the appropriate accrediting agency and accredited by ACEN or CCNE, or otherwise meet VA nursing education requirements. * Must have a ...

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Va Nursing information

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$39K

$90.9K

$144K

How much do va nursing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for va nursing in the United States is $90,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Va Nursing vs Medical Assistant?

AspectVa NursingMedical Assistant
CertificationsRN license, VA-specific trainingCertified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
Work EnvironmentVA hospitals, clinics, healthcare facilitiesDoctor's offices, outpatient clinics, hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesPatient care, medication administration, care planningVital signs, patient prep, administrative tasks

Va Nursing involves providing comprehensive patient care in VA healthcare settings, requiring RN licensure and specialized training. Medical Assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks in outpatient environments, with different certification requirements. While both roles support patient health, Va Nursing offers more advanced clinical responsibilities compared to Medical Assistants.

What are VA nurses?

VA nurses are registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), or nurse practitioners who work for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). They provide healthcare services to military veterans in VA hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. VA nurses play a critical role in assessing patient needs, administering treatments, coordinating care, and supporting veterans with a range of physical and mental health conditions. They may specialize in various areas, such as mental health, geriatrics, or primary care. VA nursing positions often offer competitive pay, federal benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Is it hard to get hired at the VA as a nurse?

Getting hired as a nurse at the VA can be competitive due to the organization's reputation and benefits, but the process is structured with clear requirements such as relevant licensure, experience, and sometimes additional certifications. Candidates with strong clinical skills, familiarity with electronic health records, and a commitment to veteran care tend to have better chances of securing a position.

Is the VA still hiring nurses?

Yes, the VA continues to hire nurses, including registered nurses and advanced practice providers, to support veteran healthcare services. Hiring may vary by location and current staffing needs, and applicants typically need a valid nursing license and relevant experience.

What are some common challenges VA nurses face when caring for veterans, and how are they supported in addressing these challenges?

VA nurses often care for veterans with complex medical histories, including chronic conditions and behavioral health needs related to military service. This can be challenging, especially when addressing both physical and mental health needs simultaneously. However, VA nurses are supported through interdisciplinary teams, ongoing training, and access to resources like social workers and mental health specialists. Team collaboration and a strong support network help nurses provide comprehensive care while managing the unique challenges of the veteran population.

What is the VA nurse pay scale?

The VA nurse pay scale is based on the federal General Schedule (GS) pay system, with entry-level positions typically starting at GS-7 or GS-8, and experienced nurses earning higher GS grades such as GS-9 or GS-11. Salaries vary by location, experience, and education, with additional benefits like healthcare and retirement included. Advanced certifications and specialized skills can also influence pay levels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VA Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a VA Nurse, you need a valid nursing license (RN or LPN), clinical expertise in patient assessment, and knowledge of veterans’ healthcare needs. Familiarity with the VA’s electronic health record system (VistA/CPRS), as well as Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications, is typically required. Strong communication, cultural competence, and advocacy for veterans are important soft skills that set candidates apart. These skills and qualifications ensure that veterans receive high-quality, compassionate, and specialized care tailored to their unique experiences.

Do VA nurses get paid a lot?

VA nurses typically earn competitive salaries that are comparable to or slightly higher than those in the private healthcare sector, with pay rates based on experience, location, and federal pay scales. They also often receive benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, and paid leave, which add to overall compensation.
More about Va Nursing jobs
What cities are hiring for Va Nursing jobs? Cities with the most Va Nursing job openings:
What states have the most Va Nursing jobs? States with the most job openings for Va Nursing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Va Nursing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,935 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Registered Nurse (ICU)

$82K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Veterans Health Administration rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 993 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 886 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Registered Nurse (ICU)

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a full-time Registered Nurse for the Intensive Care Unit at the Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System in Muskogee, OK. This position provides competent, evidence-based nursing care to acutely and critically ill Veterans who are at high risk for actual or potential life-threatening health problems. The ICU Registered Nurse delivers direct patient care, uses advanced assessment skills, supports quality improvement, and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes.

Location: Muskogee, OK

Salary: $82,817 - $149,876 per year

Pay Scale & Grade: VN-00

Work Schedule: Full-time, 7:00pm - 7:00am, rotating nights

Appointment Type: Permanent

Remote/Telework: Not available

Travel Required: Not required

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized

EDRP: Authorized, subject to eligibility and approval

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide competent, evidence-based nursing care to assigned patients.
  • Deliver direct care for acutely and critically ill patients at high risk for life-threatening health problems.
  • Use high-intensity observation, monitoring, and advanced assessment skills in the ICU setting.
  • Interpret data from invasive and non-invasive monitoring technology.
  • Provide oversight of licensed vocational nurses and nursing assistants as appropriate.
  • Assist with nursing education, orientation, competencies, quality improvement, and outcomes utilization consultation.
  • Demonstrate leadership in delivering and improving holistic patient care through collaboration.
  • Evaluate clinical practice using current evidence and best practices.
  • Participate in strategies and activities that support evidence-based nursing care.
  • Provide constructive feedback to peers and support professional development among healthcare staff.
  • Contribute a professional nursing perspective in interdisciplinary team discussions.
  • Partner with team members to improve outcomes and support safe, high-quality nursing care.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen. Non-citizens may only be appointed when qualified citizens cannot be recruited in accordance with VA policy.
  • Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
  • Must be a graduate of a professional nursing program approved by the appropriate accrediting agency and accredited by ACEN or CCNE, or otherwise meet VA nursing education requirements.
  • Must have a current, full, active, and unrestricted registration as a graduate professional nurse in a U.S. State, Territory, Commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
  • Must pass a background/security investigation.
  • Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
  • Drug testing is required for this position.
  • Selective Service registration is required for males born after December 31, 1959.
  • Must complete all onboarding and application requirements.
  • Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as required for VA health care personnel.
  • May be required to serve a probationary period.

Preferred Experience:

  • Two years of ICU nursing experience is preferred.

Grade and Salary Determination:

  • Grade and salary are determined based on education, scope of practice, and length and quality of nursing experience.
  • Applicants are evaluated using VA nursing dimensions, including practice, Veteran/patient-driven care, leadership, professional development, and evidence-based practice or research.

Benefits and Incentives:

  • Competitive salary with regular salary increases and potential performance awards.
  • 50 days of paid time off per year, including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
  • Federal retirement benefits, including a traditional pension and 401(k)-style savings plan with up to 5% VA contributions.
  • Federal health, dental, vision, term life, and long-term care insurance options.
  • One full and unrestricted nursing license from any U.S. State or territory is accepted for VA nursing practice.
  • Education Debt Reduction Program eligibility may provide student loan reimbursement up to $200,000, subject to VHA approval and eligibility requirements.

Application Deadline: July 6, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET

This position is open to all U.S. Citizens and current permanent VHA or Federal employees. Applicants must submit a complete application package through USAJOBS by the closing date.


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About Veterans Health Administration

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, serving millions of Veterans each year. Located in Phoenix, AZ, and many other parts of the US, the VHA operates under the Department of Veteran Affairs, as suggested by their official website va.gov. The VHA is dedicated to providing the highest level of comprehensive care to its veterans. The organization offers a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care, including mental health services, research, and pharmacy benefits.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US