Registered Nurse Jobs 2026: 7+ Steps to Apply for VA MH Clinical Nurse Navigator
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced an opportunity for a Registered Nurse – Mental Health Clinical Nurse Navigator (MH CNN) position. The vacancy is also Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) authorized, which may provide eligible employees with student loan repayment assistance.
Qualified nursing professionals can apply online through the USAJOBS application system. The complete application package must be submitted by October 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
This position is designed for registered nurses who can provide safe, evidence-based patient care while supporting mental health services, patient education, care coordination, and collaboration with healthcare teams.
Also Read; USA-JOBS
Registered Nurse MH Clinical Nurse Navigator Jobs 2026 – Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Registered Nurse – MH Clinical Nurse Navigator |
| Field | Nursing / Mental Health |
| Department | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs |
| Employment Type | Federal Employment |
| EDRP | Authorized |
| Work Location | Dallas VA Medical Center |
| Telework | Not Available |
| Virtual Position | No |
| Application Method | Online |
| Application Deadline | October 12, 2026 |
| Application Platform | USAJOBS |
What Does a Mental Health Clinical Nurse Navigator Do?
The Mental Health Clinical Nurse Navigator is responsible for supporting the delivery of safe and effective nursing care to assigned patients. The position also involves working with other healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes and strengthen mental health services.
The nurse may participate in patient assessments, care planning, education, medication administration, direct patient care, and coordination with interdisciplinary teams.
The role also focuses on helping nurses and other healthcare professionals improve their ability to provide mental health-related care in settings outside traditional mental health units.
Main Responsibilities
Selected candidates may be responsible for a range of clinical, educational, coordination, and leadership activities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing evidence-based nursing care to assigned patients.
- Assessing patients and developing appropriate care plans.
- Implementing and evaluating nursing interventions.
- Coordinating patient care throughout the healthcare process.
- Supporting patient education and self-management.
- Administering medications and performing procedures according to established policies.
- Working with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
- Identifying gaps in nursing care and helping staff address those gaps.
- Providing mental health assessments when required.
- Supporting nurses with mental health education and clinical guidance.
- Participating in quality improvement activities.
- Sharing professional knowledge and experiences with colleagues.
- Supporting evidence-based nursing practices.
- Helping create a safe and supportive professional environment.
- Collaborating with inpatient and outpatient teams.
- Supporting patients and families with education about mental health conditions.
- Providing direct care in complex mental health situations when necessary.
- Supporting continued patient safety after discharge through appropriate TeleHealth services.
The position also requires the nurse to contribute to improving the quality and safety of mental health care across the assigned clinical environment.
Education Requirements
Applicants must meet the applicable nursing education requirements.
The announcement states that candidates should have graduated from an approved professional nursing school accredited by an appropriate organization, including ACEN or CCNE.
Candidates with nursing education obtained outside the United States may also be considered, but additional foreign education equivalency documentation may be required.
Accepted nursing education may include:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Other qualifying nursing education recognized under the applicable VA requirements
Education used to qualify for the position must meet the relevant accreditation requirements.
Nursing License Requirement
Applicants must generally possess a current, full, active, and unrestricted nursing registration/license from a U.S. state, territory, commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
The announcement also describes a Graduate Nurse Technician exception for certain candidates who meet the educational requirements but are actively pursuing the required nursing license.
Preferred Experience
The vacancy identifies several areas of experience that may be preferred for the position.
Candidates with the following background may be particularly relevant to the position:
- BSN or MSN education.
- At least two years of direct or indirect RN experience in mental health or behavioral health.
- Experience educating patients or staff about mental health conditions.
- Experience with care plans and patient assessments.
- Experience providing patient education.
- Leadership experience in nursing care.
- Experience collaborating with staff to provide direct patient care.
- VA ONS-approved nursing certification related to mental health or behavioral health.
These are listed as preferred experience, so applicants should carefully review the official vacancy requirements before submitting their application.
Nurse Grade and Education Levels
The VA announcement provides several possible nursing grade levels based on education, experience, scope of practice, leadership, professional development, and evidence-based practice.
For example:
Nurse I, Level I:
An ADN or nursing diploma may qualify candidates with no additional professional nursing experience requirement.
Nurse I, Level II:
Candidates may qualify through an ADN/diploma plus qualifying nursing experience, or through a BSN without additional professional nursing experience.
Nurse I, Level III:
Several combinations of ADN, BSN, MSN, and relevant nursing experience may qualify.
Nurse II:
Possible qualification routes include a BSN with qualifying professional nursing experience, an MSN with specialized experience, or certain doctoral-level nursing qualifications.
Nurse III:
Higher-level positions require advanced education and specialized nursing experience combined with the required competency dimensions.
Applicants should therefore carefully complete the USAJOBS questionnaire and provide detailed information about their education and professional nursing experience.
EDRP – Student Loan Repayment Opportunity
One of the notable features of this vacancy is its Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) authorization.
Eligible candidates may be considered for student loan reimbursement through the VA’s EDRP. According to the announcement, the potential award can be up to $200,000, while the eligibility period may range from one to five years.
However, EDRP approval, the actual award amount, and the eligibility period are determined by the appropriate VA program office after reviewing the applicant’s EDRP application.
The announcement also states that former EDRP participants are not eligible to apply for this incentive. Eligible applicants must submit the EDRP application within four months of appointment and meet the applicable VHA requirements.
VA Employee Benefits
The VA provides a comprehensive federal employee benefits package. The vacancy announcement highlights several benefits, including:
Competitive Pay
Employees may receive a competitive federal salary, regular salary increases, and potential performance awards.
Paid Time Off
The announcement lists up to 50 days of paid time off per year, consisting of:
- 26 days annual leave
- 13 days sick leave
- 11 paid federal holidays
Retirement Benefits
Eligible employees may receive access to a traditional federal pension and a federal 401(k) plan, with VA contributions of up to 5% according to the announcement.
Insurance
Available federal insurance programs may include:
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
- Dental insurance
- Term life insurance
- Long-term care insurance
The announcement notes that many federal insurance programs may be carried into retirement.
Work Schedule and Other Employment Details
The position is not listed as a telework or virtual position.
Important employment details include:
- Work Schedule: May change according to unit requirements.
- Telework: Not available.
- Virtual Position: No.
- Relocation Incentive: Not authorized.
- Recruitment Incentive: Not authorized.
- Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized.
- EDRP: Authorized for eligible candidates.
Applicants should understand these conditions before submitting their applications.
General Conditions of Employment
Candidates must satisfy the applicable conditions of employment.
These include:
- U.S. citizenship, subject to the exceptions described in VA policy.
- Background and security investigation.
- Pre-employment requirements.
- Drug testing where applicable.
- Selective Service registration requirements for applicable male applicants.
- Pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Completion of required onboarding procedures.
- Compliance with the VA seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Completion of all application requirements.
- Possible probationary service period.
Applicants should review the complete official announcement for all conditions before applying.
Documents Required to Apply
Applicants should prepare a complete application package before starting the online application.
The announcement specifically lists a long-form resume/CV as part of the application package.
Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, additional documents may include:
- Cover Letter
- DD-214 or Statement of Service
- Disability Letter
- VA Disability Letter
- Nursing License
- Long-form Resume/CV
- Professional Certification
- Performance Appraisal
- Transcript
- SF-15
- SF-50
- PCS Orders
- Separation Notice
Not every applicant will need every document. Candidates should provide the documents applicable to their eligibility and qualifications.
How to Apply for Registered Nurse MH Clinical Nurse Navigator Jobs 2026
Applicants should follow the online application process carefully.
Step 1 – Prepare Your Resume
Prepare a detailed federal-style resume/CV that clearly explains your nursing education, licenses, experience, certifications, responsibilities, and relevant mental health or behavioral health experience.
Do not leave important experience unclear because the VA states that it may not make assumptions about an applicant’s qualifications.
Step 2 – Create or Access Your USAJOBS Account
Visit the official USAJOBS website and log in to your existing account.
If you do not have an account, create one before starting the application.
Step 3 – Select the Appropriate Resume
During the application process, select the USAJOBS resume or supporting documents that you want to submit for the position.
Make sure your resume accurately reflects your nursing education and professional experience.
Step 4 – Complete the Occupational Questionnaire
The application includes an occupational questionnaire.
Answer every question carefully and honestly. Your answers should match the information provided in your resume and supporting documents.
Step 5 – Upload Supporting Documents
Upload all documents required for your particular eligibility and qualification status.
This may include your nursing license, transcript, professional certification, DD-214, or other applicable documents.
Step 6 – Review Your Application
Before submitting, check:
- Resume
- Nursing license
- Education information
- Work experience
- Questionnaire answers
- Supporting documents
- Contact information
Make sure there are no missing documents or incorrect answers.
Step 7 – Submit the Application
After completing the questionnaire and uploading the required documentation, submit the application package through USAJOBS.
The official announcement states that the complete application must be submitted by 11:59 PM ET on October 12, 2026.
Step 8 – Save Your Confirmation
After submission, applicants should receive an email confirmation.
You can also log in to your USAJOBS account later to check the status of your application.
Important Tips Before Applying
Before submitting your application, keep the following points in mind:
- Make sure your nursing license is current and unrestricted.
- Clearly describe your RN experience in your resume.
- Include relevant mental health or behavioral health experience.
- Provide complete education information.
- Upload all documents applicable to your situation.
- Answer the occupational questionnaire carefully.
- Do not wait until the final hours to submit your application.
- Check your email after submitting the application.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for application-status updates.
- If applying for EDRP, carefully review the separate EDRP eligibility and application requirements.
Veterans’ Preference
The announcement contains information regarding Veterans’ Preference for eligible candidates.
Applicants who qualify for Veterans’ Preference should claim the appropriate preference category in the application questionnaire and provide the required supporting documentation.
Depending on the applicant’s situation, documentation can include DD-214 and, where applicable, SF-15 and supporting evidence.
Application Deadline
The closing date for this vacancy is:
October 12, 2026 – 11:59 PM Eastern Time
Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their complete application and required documentation are submitted before the closing time.
Late or incomplete applications may not receive consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the position?
It is a Registered Nurse – Mental Health Clinical Nurse Navigator position with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Is EDRP available?
Yes. The position is listed as EDRP authorized. Eligible applicants may potentially receive student loan reimbursement subject to VA program requirements and approval.
How much can the EDRP award be?
The announcement states that the potential EDRP award can be up to $200,000, subject to eligibility and program approval.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is October 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.
Where do I apply?
The application is submitted online through the USAJOBS system.
Is the position remote?
No. The announcement states that telework is not available and that this is not a virtual position.
Do I need a nursing license?
Generally, applicants need a current, full, active, and unrestricted U.S. nursing registration/license, subject to the specific exceptions described in the announcement.
Can foreign nursing education be used?
Foreign nursing education may be considered when the applicable requirements are met, but additional equivalency documentation may be required.
What resume should I submit?
The announcement requires a complete long-form resume/CV as part of the application package.
Final Thoughts
The Registered Nurse – Mental Health Clinical Nurse Navigator vacancy provides an opportunity for qualified nursing professionals to work with the Department of Veterans Affairs in a role focused on patient care, mental health support, care coordination, education, and evidence-based nursing practice.
The position also carries EDRP authorization, although participation and the final award amount depend on the applicant meeting the program’s requirements and receiving approval.
Before applying, candidates should carefully review their nursing license, education, professional experience, resume, and supporting documents. Most importantly, applicants should submit the complete online application before the October 12, 2026 deadline.
Official Application: USAJOBS / U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Application Deadline: October 12, 2026
Position: Registered Nurse – MH Clinical Nurse Navigator
EDRP: Authorized for eligible applicants
