Nurse Practitioner - Spinal Cord Injury Job in San Juan, PR

Vacancy No. CBTC-12611959-25-CIR Department Veterans Health Administration
Salary $109,888.00 to $163,511.00 Grade 00 to 00
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 11/20/2024 Close Date 11/27/2024
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
San Juan, PR


Summary

PLEASE READ THE COMPLETE ANNOUNCEMENT TO ENSURE YOU UNDERSTAND THE QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMIT A COMPLETE APPLICATION PACKET.


The VA Caribbean Healthcare System is seeking an experienced and dynamic Advanced Nurse Practitioner for Spinal Cord Injury Home Care Program. Ideal applicants are those who want to contribute to the achievement of quality care standards, as well as the growth and development of a VA academic hospital program.

Duties

This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application. Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply.

As a Licensed Independent Provider, the Nurse Practitioner practices autonomously and in coordination with health care professionals and other individuals. The incumbent provides a wide range of health care services, including the diagnosis and management of acute, chronic, and complex health problems; health promotion; disease prevention; health education; and counseling to individuals, families, groups and communities. Must be an excellent communicator and team player who is adaptable to the needs of a growing medical center.

Other duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Providing high-quality care, increasing access & improving outcomes for Veterans.
  • Obtaining and evaluating medical histories; performing physical examinations; performing therapeutic and diagnostic procedures; and ordering laboratory studies, radiographs, electrocardiograms, and other special examinations.
  • Making arrangements for further care if appropriate (e.g., by entering consults) and serving as a consultant to other providers.
  • Working collaboratively with all levels of staff including trainees (e.g., medical students, NP/RN students, PA students, interns, residents, etc.) and a multidisciplinary staff in a fast-paced educational, and collegial environment.
  • Developing and implementing evidence based nursing protocols and organizing educational activities targeted toward staff training and development.
  • Independently manages a panel of patients with acute and chronic health conditions
    with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention using evidence-based
    practice.
  • Develops and implements an individualized plan to achieve optimal population health
    and disease management.
  • Demonstrates leadership and works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team.
  • Orders and interprets labs, tests, and diagnostic studies.
  • Prescribes pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions.
  • Initiates referrals and consults to specialty services.
  • Provides education to patients and their families.
  • Assesses and adjusts the plan of care as needed to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
  • Exemplifies the ICARE core values of-Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and
    Excellence.
VA offers a comprehensive total rewards package: VA Nurse Total Rewards

Pay: Competitive salary, regular salary increases, potential for performance awards
Paid Time Off: 50 days of paid time off per year (26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year)
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA
Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Licensure: 1 full and unrestricted license from any US State or territory

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
(Note: Home care Position covers Island and US Virgin Islands , may include some evenings, weekends, holidays and on-call duties. Work schedules are determined and approved by the supervisor. The incumbent may be required to work various shifts on a permanent or temporary basis based on facility/patient care needs)
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
EDRP Authorized: Contact the VISN 8 Compensation Center of Excellence at VISN8CCOE@va.gov if you have any questions or concerns. Learn more.
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
  • All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
  • Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
  • Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
  • You may be required to serve a probationary period.
  • Subject to background/security investigation.
  • Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
  • Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
  • Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
  • Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.

Qualifications

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

Basic Requirements: All applicants must meet the following basic qualifications.
  • United States Citizenship: Must be a US Citizen.
  • English Language Proficiency: In accordance with 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), no person shall serve in direct patient care positions unless they are proficient in basic written and spoken English.
  • Education: Apost-master's certificate or master's or doctoral degree as a Nurse Practitioner from a school of professional nursing. (Transcripts Required) The education must be accredited by one of the following accrediting organizations at the time the program was completed:
    1. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)- NOTE: The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission/NLNAC changed its name to ACEN in May 2013 -or-
    2. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), an accrediting arm of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
    3. In cases of graduates of foreign schools of professional nursing programs, the nurse practitioner degree equivalency must be validated through an Agency recognized degree equivalency evaluation agency, such as the International Consultants of Delaware (ICD). Applicants with equivalent Nurse Practitioner masters or doctorate level degrees who possess current, full, active and unrestricted registration and certification will meet the requirement of graduation from an approved school of professional nursing to warrant appointment.
  • License: Active, current, full and unrestricted APN license to practice as a NP in a State, Territory or Commonwealth of the United States, or in the District of Columbia. (Copy of NP License Required)
  • Nurse Practitioner Board Certification: Must possess and maintain full and current board certification as a NP in Family, Adult or Adult Gerontology Primary Care. The certification must be in one of the following certifying bodies: (1) The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC); or (2) The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB); or (3) Other nationally recognized certifying body in the area in which the Nurse Practitioner is academically prepared. (Copy of NP Certification Required)
Selective Placement Factor (SPF). This position includes a skill, knowledge, ability or other worker characteristic basic to -and essential for- satisfactory performance of the job. Selective Placement Factors are a prerequisite to appointment and represent minimum requirements for a position. Applicants who do not meet it are ineligible for further consideration. Evidence of the SPF must be reflected in your resume. The SPF for this position is: In addition to the English Language Proficiency, you must also be proficient in basic written and spoken Spanish in order to perform the duties of this position.

Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic qualification requirements, the grade level of a NP is based on a combination of education and experience.
  • Nurse Practitioner II:
    1. Scope. Demonstrates leadership in delivering and improving holistic care through collaborative strategies with others.
    2. Education and Experience Requirement. None beyond the basic requirements.
    3. Dimension Requirement. NPs at this grade are expected to meet the following dimension requirements:
      1. Clinical Practice. Delivers evidence-based health care, demonstrating proficiency in the ability to manage a patient panel, population or program.
      2. Outcome Focus. Utilizes research and evidence-based practice to evaluate the patient care delivery system within a patient panel or program, presents findings and contributes to changes that enhance the quality and timeliness of veteran/patient care.
      3. Leadership. Works effectively as a leader within a team/unit/group and seeks interdisciplinary collaboration as appropriate to enhance patient care.
      4. Professional Development. Acquires knowledge and skills to develop expertise in area of practice.
      5. Professionalism/Collegiality. Demonstrates effective communication skills and professional behavior, promoting cooperation and teamwork. Participates in interdisciplinary teams and processes that positively impact patient outcomes.
  • Nurse Practitioner III:
    1. Scope. Executes position responsibilities that demonstrate leadership, experience and creative approaches to management of complex client care.
    2. Education and Experience Requirement. Meets basic education requirement for a NP-II -and- possess one year of specialized NP experience equivalent to the NP-II grade level.
    3. Dimension Requirement. NPs at this grade are expected to meet the following dimension requirements:
      1. Clinical Practice. Influences and models the delivery of evidence-based health care, demonstrating expertise in the ability to manage a patient panel, population or program.
      2. Outcome Focus. Leads and implements changes that enhance the quality and timeliness of Veteran/patient care applying research and evidence in the delivery of healthcare for patient populations.
      3. Leadership. Initiates and leads interdisciplinary teams informed by structured approaches and processes to improve outcomes that positively impact care for a patient panel, population or program.
      4. Professional Development. Acquires knowledge and skills, then disseminates acquired information within and/or outside the medical facility.
      5. Professionalism/Collegiality. Initiates and leads interdisciplinary teams developing systems that positively impact outcomes at the panel, population or program level. Demonstrates effective communication skills and professional behavior, promoting cooperation and teamwork.
Driver's License: A current, valid state-issued Driver's License is required for this position. NOTE: We cannot accept photographs; therefore, please DO NOT submit a copy of your driver's license with your application package. If an interview is requested, you will be required to provide a copy of your current, valid state-issued Driver's License.

Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.

The full performance level of this vacancy is Nurse III. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of Nurse II to Nurse III.

Physical Requirements: Must pass a pre-employment physical examination as required by VA Handbook 5019. This examination is administered by VA Occupational Health. This position requires moderate lifting up to 44 lbs., carrying objects up to 15 lbs., frequent reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, hands and legs, use of cranes and motor vehicles, walking & standing up to 8 hours, bending and climbing and able to hear whisper. The incumbent must be physically, emotionally and mentally stable in order to efficiently perform the essential functions of this position without hazard to themselves or others.

Education

This job does not have an education qualification requirement.

Additional information

Annual leave shall accrue for full-time Nurses, and Nurse Anesthetists at the rate of 8 hours for each full biweekly pay period.

This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.

VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.

Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.

If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.

Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer (TJO). Please visit the Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP), va.gov/EMPLOYEE/docs/The-Fair-Chance-to-Compete-Act.pdf for more information

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Your application, resume, C.V., and/or other supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.

NOTE: Candidate's education, scope, and length of nursing practice (experience) will be considered by a Nurse Professional Standards Board in determining the grade and salary of the applicant selected. The recommended salary may be at any point in the range listed for this vacancy.

Experience as an RN will be evaluated to determine if the experience is of an acceptable level of quality with regard to the following four dimensions of nursing: Practice, Professional Development, Collaboration and Scientific Inquiry. Each dimension of practice has criteria that demonstrate essential core competencies for VHA Nursing Personnel.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.

It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.

Veterans' Preference Note: Preference eligible candidates and other Veterans will be given preference when qualification of candidates are approximately equal for Title 38 positions in VHA. When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active-duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.

Required Documents

NOTE:

Incomplete packets will not be considered. Failure to submit the required documentation will make you ineligible for this position.The following documents are required from all applicants:
  • Résumé / CV: For each job/position listed, you must include a job title, detailed duties, month and year for each start/end date and if full-time or part-time status with the number of hours worked each week.
  • Responses to the questionnaire
  • License: Must provide a copy of your nurse practitioner license.
  • Board Certification: Must provide a copy of your NP board certification(s) as required above for this position.
  • Transcript(s): Must provide a copy of all nursing education transcripts.
The following additional supporting documents may be submitted, if applicable:
  • SF-50: All VA/Federal employees should submit a copy of your most recent SF-50 (that is not an award SF-50) that shows you're a current, permanent VA/Federal employee. You may get your SF-50 directly from your eOPF. VA employees may go to:https://eopf.opm.gov/va/.
  • To be considered for Veterans preference submit: Copy of your DD-214 that shows your type of discharge (Member 4 copy).
  • Disabled Veterans & those claiming 10-Point Preference must submit: SF-15 (Application for 10-Point Veterans Preference) along with the supporting documents required by that form (such as VA disability rating). Please read page 2 of the form for acceptable supporting documents. (Available at: http://www.opm.gov/Forms/pdf_fill/SF15.pdf)
  • Those claiming 0-Point (Sole Survivorship) Preference must also submit: Proof of your eligibility.

How to Apply

All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 11/27/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12611959.

  1. To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
  2. Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.

NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.

To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.

Agency contact information

Christopher Riley
Address
San Juan VA Medical Center
10 Calle Casia
San Juan, PR 00921
US
Learn more about this agency

Next steps

Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.

You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.

NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.