What are the responsibilities and job description for the Clinical Nurse Specialist - Acute Care position at Valley Children's Healthcare?
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) – Acute Care
The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice nurse who serves as an expert clinician, educator, leader, consultant, and researcher. In this role, you will collaborate closely with the interdisciplinary healthcare team to monitor and elevate the quality of patient care, driving improved clinical outcomes across the organization.
Leveraging advanced clinical expertise, critical thinking, and specialized knowledge, the CNS influences care at multiple levels—supporting patients and families, advancing nursing practice, and addressing complex system-wide challenges. This role is instrumental in shaping best practices, mentoring staff, and leading initiatives that enhance patient safety, quality, and efficiency.
The CNS acts as a clinical role model, patient advocate, change agent, and leader, helping to foster a culture of excellence in care delivery.
This position practices in accordance with the California Nursing Practice Act and organizational policies.
Qualifications
Education
- Master’s degree in Nursing with a clinical specialty (required)
Licenses & Certifications
- Active Registered Nurse (RN) license – State of California (required)
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) certification – California BRN (required)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) through the American Heart Association (required within 30 days of hire/transfer)
- National certification in specialty area (preferred)
Experience
- Minimum 3 years of clinical nursing experience (required)
- Minimum 5 years of experience in specialty area (preferred)
Skills & Competencies
- Advanced knowledge of nursing principles, practices, and healthcare systems
- Strong clinical judgment and decision-making skills
- Ability to lead quality improvement and evidence-based practice initiatives
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and mentoring abilities
- Proven ability to influence practice across patient care, nursing teams, and organizational systems
Hours, Compensation and Benefits: Full Time, Exempt, day shift, position offers a robust benefits plan and competitive salary based on experience.
Why Valley Children’s?
Be part of a collaborative environment where education drives excellence in patient care. You’ll play a key role in shaping the clinical expertise of healthcare professionals while supporting high-quality outcomes for children and families.
Salary : $68 - $100