AF Spouse & the VA

[BusiestBSN]

I am a soon to be Air Force spouse & would like to work in the VA system. Does anyone have any experience with this? Were you able to transfer locations within the system? Any information is helpful.

Also looking for advice from other RNs/military wives in general about changing jobs when a PCS occurs. Thank you!

[jeckrn, BSN, RN]

As a spouse of a active duty service member you are to have priority for hiring, but with that being said they always do not give veterans preference. As far as transferring in the VA there is not set program and must apply for a position when your husband PCS' s in the future.

You should look into a GS nursing position at the base your husband will be stationed at since there is a system in place for transfers with PCS moves.

[BeccaznRN, RN]

Success in changing jobs during PCS moves is highly dependent on where you will be PCSing to. I always worked at local hospitals (with the exception of our current overseas assignment), so my nursing experience served me well when it was time to find a new job. However, if you are a new grad, you are going to have some significant challenges with finding work. GS nursing positions are highly competitive with (typically) lower compensation as compared to the civilian sector. Don't be fooled - GS jobs are incredibly difficult to obtain unless you "know someone," even with preference and even at a large installation. Overseas assignments and assignments in remote locations are even worse for job opportunities.

I don't mean to paint a bleak picture for you, but it is what it is. It's much easier to land a civilian job (which is not always easy these days either). I was lucky in that I graduated during a time where new grad nursing jobs were a dime a dozen and my husband was able to take assignments where I could easily find work at a civilian hospital. And personally, I prefer to work on the civilian side of the house anyway.

Best wishes to you!