Research Nurse - Surgical Services - Targeted

Whilst this position is open to all individuals, it is targeted to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people under section 21 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply and consideration will be given to suitable Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants to promote equal or improved access. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants must demonstrate Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander status in addition to addressing the selection criterion. 

About the role - Research Nurse, Surgical Services

Join a forward-thinking surgical research team at John Hunter Hospital, supporting clinical trials that drive innovation and improve patient outcomes. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for screening and recruiting patients, coordinating trial activities, collecting clinical data, and collaborating with both research and surgical teams to ensure studies run smoothly.

This is a Monday to Friday position during standard business hours, offering a balanced mix of independent work and teamwork alongside surgeons, registrars, and fellow research staff. You will also have the opportunity to travel occasionally to support partner sites across the Hunter New England region.

This is more than just a job - it’s a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful, cutting-edge research in a supportive and collaborative environment!

Where you’ll be working:

Join a supportive and innovative surgical research team at John Hunter Hospital – a leading tertiary hospital nestled in the leafy surrounds of New Lambton Heights, just minutes from Newcastle’s city centre.

Work in a calm, accessible setting that blends cutting-edge healthcare with natural beauty. Collaborate on meaningful research projects that improve surgical care, with occasional travel to partner sites across the Hunter New England region.

Be part of a passionate, collaborative team making a real impact!

What we can offer you:

Requirements:
Our successful candidate will possess the following:

• Current registration as a Registered Nurse with AHPRA.
  
  
  

What We Are Looking For:

Organised and Proactive – You thrive on structure but aren't afraid to take initiative.

Team Player and Independent Worker – Comfortable collaborating, yet capable of managing tasks solo.

Excellent Communicator – Clear, respectful, and confident in all forms of communication.

Detail-Oriented – You notice the little things that make a big difference.

Passionate About Patient Care – Genuinely driven to support better health outcomes through research.

Must Be Time-Savvy – Strong time management and ability to prioritise across multiple tasks and sites.

Comfort in Clinical Settings – This role involves patient-facing work and collaboration with surgical teams.

Flexible with Travel – Occasional movement between hospital sites is part of the job.

Clinical Background Preferred – Ideally with experience in surgical or acute care settings.

Research Exposure – Any involvement with clinical trials or research is highly regarded.

Data and Compliance Know-How – Experience with patient consent, data collection, or ethics/governance processes is a bonus.

Willingness to Learn – Full training is available for the right candidate with a can-do attitude.

Bring your dedication, professionalism, and heart for healthcare to our team - we can’t wait to hear from you!

Additional information:

• An eligibility list will be created for future temporary part time vacancies. 
• 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. 
• 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. If you require any accommodations or adjustments to the recruitment process please let us know when you apply or at any stage of the process. We will work with you to meet your needs and create the best possible experience. Please contact Rebecca.Caldwell@health.nsw.gov.au for confidential support to ensure an equitable, barrier-free application process. 
• To be eligible for employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport, or hold an appropriate visa that allows you to live and work in Australia. Employment of a temporary visa holder will only be offered in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa.
• We are unable to accommodate visa sponsorship for applicants requiring a visa for this position.
  
  
  

Need more information?

• Click here for the Position Description
• Find out more about applying for this position

For role related queries or questions contact Kristy Connelly on Kristy.Connelly@health.nsw.gov.au

Information for Applicants: 

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.