Thoughts/Experiences working in a V.A. hospital?

[teenycar]

I sent in a application at the request of a former clinical instructor to the V.A. here. I've never done a clinical at this site and I'm wondering what people's thoughts were on V.A. hospitals. I'm looking into ICU.

[Five&Two Will Do]

I work in MICU at a VA in NC. I hve worked here as a cna first and now an RN for the past 3 years. I lvoe the VA and the patients are great for the most part. This VA is not huge so you recognize people. Most everyone likes their job or so it seems and people smile and say hello when youpass them in the hall. You will not find better retirement anywhere and the leave is exceptional. Not to mention that they do not send us home if census is low not ever. Plus 10 paid holidays on top of that. Who would have thought that I would get double time for days like Columbus day or Presidents day!

[RNDanaD]

What was the hiring process like? How long did it take to be hired once you submitted your application? I am trying to get a job at my local VA and was wondering when I might get a phone call for an interview. Thanks for the info!

[Five&Two Will Do]

What was the hiring process like? How long did it take to be hired once you submitted your application? I am trying to get a job at my local VA and was wondering when I might get a phone call for an interview. Thanks for the info!

I was fortunate in that I had been a CNA here for 5 years before finishing nursing school, but the best way to get an interview is to look on USAjobs.gov and find a job that youwant. Next, and listen carefully, you must make sure that you follow the application process to the letter. There are so many people that want to work at the VA because of the pay and benefits as well as job security taht if you miss anything they will not even consider your application. Also it would be helpful if you know somebody that already works there.

[RNDanaD]

I got a reply on my Account Manager for the VA job I applied for several weeks ago. It says I am eligible for the position and my name has been referred to the selecting officials and they will contact me if an interview is needed. Seems kinda wordy to me, but sounds like good news. I am cautiously optimistic but was wondering if anyone had an idea how long this process could take. My husband works for the government and his application process was well more than 9 months!