Job Description

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) – Registered Nurse

Employment Type: Full time

Shift: Day Shift

Location: Trinity Health Oakland Status: Full-Time

Transform Nursing Practice. Drive Clinical Excellence. Improve Patient Outcomes.

Trinity Health Oakland is seeking an experienced and passionate Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) to serve as an advanced practice nursing leader and clinical expert.

Position Summary

The Clinical Nurse Specialist serves as an advanced practice registered nurse and collaborative leader responsible for integrating the art and science of nursing into clinical practice. Guided by the American Nurses Association (ANA) Standards of Practice and Professional Performance, the CNS promotes excellence in patient care through clinical expertise, education, mentorship, consultation, research, and systems improvement.

The CNS plays a critical role in advancing nursing practice, fostering professional growth among nursing staff, and supporting organizational quality and patient safety goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as an expert clinical resource for nurses, interdisciplinary teams, and leadership.
• Lead and support evidence-based practice initiatives that improve patient outcomes and care delivery.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs for nursing staff.
• Mentor, coach, and support nurses, educators, students, and clinical teams.
• Collaborate with leaders and frontline staff to identify opportunities for quality improvement and clinical excellence.
• Analyze clinical data and outcomes to drive performance improvement initiatives.
• Promote patient safety and best practices throughout the continuum of care.
• Participate in nursing shared governance and professional practice initiatives.
• Support organizational Magnet® journey activities and nursing excellence standards.
• Serve as a consultant for complex patient care situations and specialty practice issues.
• Foster a culture of relationship-based care, collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) required.
• Graduate degree or certificate in Nursing Education preferred.

Licensure & Certifications

• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of Michigan.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification preferred.
• National specialty certification preferred.
• Membership in a professional nursing organization preferred.

Additional Requirements

• Obtain BLS Instructor and/or Faculty status within six (6) months of hire.

Experience

• Minimum of three (3) years of clinical nursing experience
• Previous experience in nursing education, professional development, clinical instruction, preceptorship, unit education, or Clinical Nurse Specialist practice required.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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