Does the VA prefer to hire internally?

[tiffcrn, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, EMT-B]

I have applied to a VA position that was posted on USA Jobs. I called the recruiter to verify a few things about my Vet preferance. She stated if they decide to hire from within my preferance doesn't matter but if they decide to interview externally my preferance will be taken into consideration. My question is.... If they know they want to hire from within then why did they have the position open to the public? Thanks!

[liane90]

From what I have been told by nearly everyone that ever worked at the VA is that they will hire people that they know first. One person I know volunteered there for networking purposes before he was hired on.

[tiffcrn, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, EMT-B]

The recruiter mentioned that I apply to the larger VA system but it is to far of a drive and we can't relocate. So we will see what happens. The recruiter did tell me that I have been marked eligible for the position but no applicants have been forwarded at this time.

[pfchang]

They may be looking at both internal and external candidates. Experience counts at the VA. Often an experienced external ICU nurse will get hired over an internal RN wishing to transfer to ICU.

[tiffcrn, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, EMT-B]

Thanks. That makes me feel alot better. It is for a care managment position and the opening stated 2-3 years RN experience. I have been a nurse for 5 years and have long term care, ICU, CCU, and OR experience. Plus I'm working on my MSN in education and leadership. I hope I have a shot. I've always wanted to work with fellow vets.

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

I was offered a VA job without any VA connections or experience (beyond being a veteran, haha). I suppose it varies.

[tiffcrn, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, EMT-B]

I suppose it does vary per location but it gives me hope! :)

[tiffcrn, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, EMT-B]

My application has been referred to the hiring office. Good sign?

[applewhitern, BSN, RN]

I gave up trying to get on with the VA. They always claimed they had a hiring freeze going on. That said, we have quite a few VA nurses who work PRN or part-time at my hospital. They say they had no problem getting hire there.

[NV Nurse]

It really depends... If there is a qualified applicant, I think the VA, like most employers, would rather hire from within... That being said, as mentioned previously, the VA values education and training. I was hired in the the VA as a critical care nurse in 2012. I think coming into the system as a bedside nurse is easier then if you are trying to move into an auxiliary position. Just my thoughts!

Good luck! The VA is a great place to be!