About the opportunity
The Inpatient Mental Health (MH) Registered Nurse (RN) promotes personal growth and development of psychiatric-mental health nursing practice. The role involves understanding practices related to patient-centered care, recovery-oriented principles, and self-awareness when caring for patients with MH conditions. Duties include attending nurse-led psychoeducational groups, using therapeutic communication and de-escalation techniques, participating in shift reports and interdisciplinary treatment teams, and responding to psychiatric emergencies. The nurse identifies safety concerns, documents assessments and care plans, and maintains professional boundaries. This position is in the Excepted Service and requires physical tasks such as standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 35 pounds.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive salary with regular increases
- Potential for performance awards
- 50 days of paid time off per year (26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays)
- Federal pension plan (5 years vesting)
- Federal 401K with up to 5% employer contribution
- Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care insurance
Who can apply?
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing (ACEN or CCNE)
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in a U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service
- Must pass a background/security investigation
- Must be able to perform physical requirements including lifting up to 35 pounds and safety/restraint techniques
Required documents
- Standard Clinical Resume (downloadable template provided)
- Full Resume/CV (optional, can be uploaded in 'Other' field)
- License
- DD-214/Statement of Service (if claiming Veterans' Preference)
- SF-15 (if claiming 10-point Veterans' Preference)
- Transcripts
- Cover Letter (if applicable)
- Disability Letters (if applicable)
- Performance Appraisal (if applicable)
- Professional Certification (if applicable)
- Separation Notice (if applicable)
- SF-50 (if applicable)
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 2026-09-09
How to apply
- Create or log in to a USAJOBS account
- Download the required standard Clinical Resume document
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload all required documentation
- Submit the application package via the USAJOBS portal
Additional information
- This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory condition of employment.
- Selected applicants must participate in and pass Prevention and Management of Disruptive Behaviors (PMDB) training.
- The position requires 12-hour shifts (7:00 AM – 7:30 PM) including weekends.
- This announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Registered Nurses with a background in psychiatric-mental health care.
- Professionals comfortable with 12-hour shifts including weekends.
- Candidates capable of meeting physical requirements like lifting 35 pounds and performing safety/restraint techniques.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is in the Excepted Service, meaning it does not confer competitive status.
- Mandatory participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is required.
- The position requires on-site work in Cincinnati, Ohio, with no mention of relocation assistance.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent fit for a nurse seeking a stable, long-term career within the federal system, offering a comprehensive benefits package, including a pension and 401K, alongside a competitive salary. It provides a structured environment for those dedicated to recovery-oriented patient care.
Our take
Licensed RNs looking for a stable, mission-driven role in inpatient mental health should apply, provided they are comfortable with the physical demands and shift requirements.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
