Registered Nurse Recovery - Targeted
Make an impact in a high-acuity environment where your skills, teamwork, and compassion directly shape recovery.
Remuneration: $36.39 - $51.09 Per Hour + Super + Salary Packaging
Location: Awabakal Country - John Hunter Hospital
Employment Type: Various Permanent and Casual positions available
Position Classification: Registered Nurse
Hours Per Week: 38 (full time and part time hours available)
Requisition ID: REQ578999
Applications Close: Thursday 31st July 2025
Where you'll be working:
The Post Anaesthetic Recovery Unit (PACU) at John Hunter Hospital is a fast-paced and essential part of Perioperative Services. As part of one of NSW’s major tertiary referral hospitals, you’ll work in a modern, well-equipped unit with access to cutting-edge clinical practice. Located in Newcastle, you’ll enjoy coastal living, with access to world-class beaches, excellent schools, and a thriving cultural scene.
Within the PACU, you’ll join a multidisciplinary team committed to efficiency, safety, and the highest standards of patient care. The work environment is supportive and collaborative, with a strong focus on professional development and team wellbeing.
About the role:
As a Registered Nurse in PACU, you’ll deliver specialised post-anaesthetic care, closely monitoring patients, managing pain and complications, and ensuring a safe transition to the next stage of recovery. You’ll work alongside anaesthetists, surgeons, allied health professionals, and fellow nurses to deliver best-practice, evidence-based care.
Day-to-day responsibilities include:
- Monitoring vital signs and post-operative recovery progress
- Administering medications and responding to clinical changes
- Providing reassurance and support to patients emerging from anaesthesia
- Collaborating closely with the perioperative team to ensure seamless patient transitions
This role suits someone who thrives in an acute care environment and is ready to make a meaningful difference in a patient’s surgical journey. Shifts are aligned with surgical schedules and include morning, afternoon, and night shifts. Full-time, part-time, and casual roles are available.
About you:
You are a confident and compassionate nurse with a calm approach and a passion for patient-centred care. You’ll also bring:
- Strong clinical assessment and decision-making skills
- Excellent communication and teamwork
- Ability to remain composed in high-pressure environments
- A genuine desire to learn and grow professionally
- A collaborative, inclusive mindset
Experience in recovery, perioperative, or acute care nursing is highly desirable. Support and training are available for nurses transitioning into this specialty.
Requirements:
-
Current Authority to Practice as a Registered Nurse with AHPRA
Team culture and benefits:
The PACU team at John Hunter Hospital is known for its close-knit, friendly vibe. Feedback is welcomed and encouraged through regular meetings, and everyone’s voice is heard when it comes to making improvements or celebrating team success.
If you’re someone who values both clinical excellence and being part of a vibrant, social team—this is the place to grow your skills and enjoy your workday.
What we can offer you:
At Hunter New England Health, enjoy a career where you're challenged by interesting work and surrounded by spectacular locations. Join the team enriching health in millions of ways every day:
- Monthly Allocated Days Off (for full-time employees)
- 6 weeks annual leave (for eligible full time nurses)
- Paid parental leave (for eligible employees) - giving you the opportunity for true Worklife balance
- Salary packaging options - up to $11,600 plus novated leasing
- Fitness Passport for health and well-being - discounted gym options for you and your family
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and family members
- Opportunity to work and collaborate with a range of non-clinical and clinical professionals
Support and development:
You’ll be backed by a supportive leadership team, experienced Clinical Nurse Educators, and senior staff who take pride in mentoring and guiding new team members. From structured orientation to on-the-floor coaching, you’ll be surrounded by professionals who want to see you succeed. Opportunities for upskilling, ongoing education, and internal progression are actively encouraged.
Need more information?
1) Click here for the Position Description
2) Find out more about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Tizzana Staib on Tizzana.Staib@health.nsw.gov.au
Additional Information:
This position is full time; however, part time arrangements will be considered.
An eligibility list will be created for future permanent full or part time and temporary full or part time vacancies.
Applicants will be assessed against the essential requirements and selection criteria contained within the position description (link below). For assistance addressing selection criteria visit: https://bit.ly/3vL5fq2
Stepping Up Website is a resource designed to help indigenous job applicants apply for positions in NSW Health. For more information, please visit: https://bit.ly/HNEHealthSteppingUp
This is a Category A position. Recommended applicants will be reviewed for compliance with NSW Health policy directive PD2024_015: Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination against Specified Infectious Diseases for Category A positions prior to offer. All new employees must agree to comply with the requirements outlined in the policy.
Hunter New England Health is dedicated to fostering a child-safe environment that respects and upholds the rights of children and young people, aligned with NSW Health’s commitment to implementing the Child Safe Standards.. We aim to ensure that children and young people feel safe, supported, and included in their care. All current and prospective staff are expected to prioritise the safety, welfare, and well-being of children and young people, actively working to protect them from harm and abuse.
To be eligible for permanent employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or a permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport. Employment of a temporary visa holder may only occur if no suitable local candidate is identified for the position; in this instance, you may only be offered employment in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa.
At Hunter New England Local Health District, we are an inclusive employer dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Our commitment to a workforce that reflects the community we care for is essential for delivering the highest quality healthcare to our community. We encourage people with diverse lived experiences to apply.
