Associate Certified Nursing Assistant (DOH/NMVH 15504+)

Why does the job exist?

The position of Associate Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exists to support the delivery of safe, high-quality, person-centered care to residents under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. This role ensures that residents' basic needs are met in accordance with their individualized care plans, including assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), hygiene, mobility, nutrition, and toileting. The Associate CNA plays a vital role in maintaining resident dignity, comfort, and safety, while also contributing to infection control, timely documentation, and compliance with state and federal regulations. This position supports nursing operations by helping to ensure continuity of care and responding to resident needs promptly and compassionately.

How does it get done?

• Assist residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, eating, and ambulation.
• Provide comfort and emotional support to residents while maintaining respect and dignity.
• Ensure resident safety through proper use of assistive devices and by adhering to fall-prevention protocols.
• Observe and promptly report changes in residents' physical or mental condition to the licensed nurse.
• Measure and record vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure) and intake/output as directed.
• Document care provided and resident responses in accordance with facility policies.
• Aid in safe lifting, repositioning, and transfers using proper body mechanics or mechanical lifts.
• Escort residents to activities, appointments, or meals as needed.
• Practice universal precautions and infection control procedures consistently.
• Ensure resident rooms and personal items are kept clean, organized, and comfortable.
• Support efforts to maintain a clean and safe environment for all residents.
• Communicate effectively with residents, families, nursing staff, and other members of the interdisciplinary team.
• Participate in shift reports, care planning discussions, and training as required.
• Respond to call lights and resident needs promptly and respectfully.
• Maintain certification and training in good standing (including CPR/first aid if required).
• Adhere to all facility policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines.

Who are the customers?

The primary customer are the brave men and women that answered our nation's call, executed their duties, and now are unable to live in their respective communities due to failing health. This job will also support the widows of the service men and women to include parents that have lost children in combat (Gold Star Parents).

Minimum Qualification

• Holds a current Certified Nursing Assistant certification in New Mexico with 0 - 2 years' experience.
• Foundational skills in assisting residents with basic activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility support.
• A willingness to learn, follow directions carefully, and provide respectful, patient-centered care.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work cooperatively within a care team.
• A reliability, punctuality, and a positive attitude toward supporting veterans with diverse needs.
• Basic knowledge of infection control and safety procedures.
• A commitment to adhere to facility policies and regulations.
• Flexibility to work various shifts and adapt to the needs of the residents and the facility.

Employment Requirements

• Must currently possess and maintain a current Certified Nursing Assistant Certificate from the State of New Mexico.
• This position is designated safety sensitive.
• Employment is subject to pre-employment and random testing, in accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state law, rules, and regulations in relation to alcohol and/or drug testing.
• Must possess and maintain a valid American Heart Association BLS / CPR Certification.
• Employment is subject to criminal background check pursuant to New Mexico Caregivers Criminal Screening Act, (Sections 29-17-2 through 29-17-5 NMSA 1978 and 7.1.9.1 through 7.1.9.11 NMAC) and is conditional pending results.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Safe Food Handling Certificate or receive within 1 week of date of hire.
• Successful completion of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) training.
• Must sign and observe confidentiality agreement.
• Must be able to read, write, speak, and comprehend the English language.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed within a long-term facility.
• Walking throughout the facility and frequent communication and interaction with residents, staff, and the public.
• Periods of walking, standing, bending, pushing, pulling, lifting, and stretching for a variety of activities may be required.
• Must be able to function under pressure and stressful situations.
• Health hazards such as exposure to contagious viruses and diseases.
• Routine exposure to public, fellow employees, and facility resident illness, stressful situations, and bodily fluids, as well as exposure to physical and/or verbal abuse.
• Occasional travel for training & meetings and driving a State of NM owned motor vehicle may be required; some lifting; extended hours to meet deadlines will be required.
• Working hours may include on-call, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, and callback hours.

Supplemental Information

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Agency Contact Information: Berna Garcia, (575) 894-4234, Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
Bargaining Unit Position
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.