Clinician - Emergency Department

UPMC Altoona is hiring a Clinician to lead and elevate patient care in our Emergency Department!  We are looking for a Registered Nurse with at least 2 years of experience who exemplifies strengths in communication, teamwork, and flexibility.

This is a night shift position with shifts being 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM 8 hours of office time every 2 weeks.  Must have weekend and holiday availability.

Generous Sign-On Bonus: Sign-on bonus up to $15,000 available for eligible candidates who commit to a two-year work agreement

*Note:  Candidate will be placed into the appropriate salary grade and job title based on experience and education.

Purpose of the Role

The Clinician is a highly skilled nurse leader who plays a pivotal role in shaping a culture of excellence. As a role model of professional nursing practice, you will guide and support your team, elevate clinical standards, and ensure exceptional patient care. Under the direction of the Unit Director or department leadership, you will oversee hiring, evaluations, and daily performance for your direct reports. You will also provide clinical expertise, education, and support for staff, while stepping in to deliver patient care when needed.

What You’ll Lead & Influence

Team Leadership & Professional Development

• Build strong, positive working relationships across the unit and organization.
• Mentor and coach staff, fostering uplifting communication, cultural awareness, and a healthy work environment.
• Support colleagues through change by identifying learning needs, providing guidance, and modeling resilience.
• Serve as a preceptor and mentor for students, interns, new nurses, and developing preceptors.
• Participate in shared leadership and take on formal leadership responsibilities such as onboarding, evidence‑based practice, or quality initiatives.
• Complete performance evaluations and support ongoing staff development.

Quality, Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Apply performance improvement tools to enhance patient care and the work environment.
• Integrate research, best practices, and system goals into daily operations.
• Share successful improvements across units and the broader organization.
• Promote patient safety, quality outcomes, and an exceptional patient experience.

Clinical Expertise & Patient Care

• Provide service‑based education, orientation, and clinical consultation for staff.
• Use the nursing process and Relationship‑Based Care to meet the clinical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of patients and families.
• Demonstrate strong critical thinking and communicate clearly with patients, families, and the care team.
• Ensure comprehensive documentation that supports seamless communication between caregivers.
• Maintain shift accountability for patient care when needed.

Communication, Collaboration & Professionalism

• Model professional communication and healthy team dynamics.
• Address workplace challenges such as horizontal violence and impairment with professionalism and compassion.
• Demonstrate accountability in time management, safe work hours, and personal well‑being.
• Share new knowledge through presentations, posters, or publications.