Any NP work for the VA?

[msmith]

Hi folks,

I was just wondering if any NP out there works for the VA and if you like it or not? Perks? Cons? Benefits? Gripes?

I will be job hunting pretty soon and just wanted to get a feel for what's out there.

Thanks!

[Corey Narry, MSN, RN, NP]

There are two VA facilities within a 40 mile radius of where I live. I don't work for them but I know some NP's who do. VA facilities employ many NP's and constantly post openings in their website (http://www.vacareers.va.gov/l2_Jobs.cfm). From what I hear, the salary is not as competitive but the benefits are great. They have generous vacation days and time off including 10 federal holidays which you will get paid for. Insurance coverage is excellent. And as a federal employee, you are eligible for a government-sponsored retirement plan incuding health care benefits. Relocation is not usually a problem, there are VA facilities across the 50 states.

[patrick1rn, MSN, RN, NP]

I work in MICU as a RN, I just graduated in Dec with my FNP. I am hoping to work as a NP at the VA. As previously mentioned, the salary is not the highest, but then again, it will still be a pay raise for me.

Benefits:

5 weeks annual leave

2 weeks sick leave

Federal holidays off or double pay for working them

2 weeks military leave if you are in the guard or reserves

Decent health insurance

retirement plan: TSP and a small pension

Taking care of Veterans.. Im a combat veteran and still a soldier myself..

[JessicaLovesJeff, BSN, MSN, APRN, NP]

Does anyone know what types of NPs the VA hires?

I want to work for the VA but I really like women's health and peds and I'm not sure about the demand for those sorts of positions.

Also, does the VA do tuition reimbursement for NP programs?

Thanks for the help!!

[JDCitizen]

Try this federal job search and you might get some ideas: http://www.federaljobsearch.com/