New Grad in VA

I am a new NP as well this year. Congratulations! The first job I applied to was a ongoing contractor position through the VA doing compensation and pension exams. I don’t have to write prescriptions at all for this position. It was not the family practice setting I envisioned myself in, but it was right in front of my face around my area, so I applied , interviewed and accepted.

I am in the credentialing process so I have not started the job yet. I did apply through the actual VA , but for my state they are still accepting applications. I was wondering what salary would be and what level I would come in at, they take RN experience into consideration for level at VA don’t they? In all honesty, I thought starting pay with VA would work out to a little over $110,000 starting. I know with government jobs not too much room to negotiate the wage.

As a contractor , I’m paid by the day , even if I’m not there the full day. I don’t get PTO, but I can take off as many days as I want, I just need to give 14 days notice of my vacation. The agency I was hired through will carry my malpractice insurance, health, dental, vision insurances. 

As a VA employee , you will have better benefits , paid time off and sick, annual raises , promotions, overtime available to be paid, etc. One has to weigh what works best for them. If you are looking to stay long term, I would take the position and you will move in rank and wage fast , I would think....