Clinical Nurse Specialist, NICU and Small Baby Unit

Orange, California

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Job ID: R-31665
Date posted: 07/11/2026

Work Location

Orange, California

Work Shift

Day – 08hrs (United States of America)

Why CHOC?

At CHOC, we strive to be the leading destination of children’s health by providing exceptional and innovative care. We are responsible for the overall health of our community’s pediatric population in our hospitals, clinics, and practices. And because of our breadth of care, your career at CHOC can be as diverse and fulfilling as you determine. CHOC’s compensation structure, benefits offerings, and career development programs are geared to helping you achieve your professional and personal goals. Apply now to see where your career at CHOC can take you.

Job Summary

We are looking to hire a CNS with extensive NICU experience, including caring for babies at less than 28 weeks gestation, for our Small Baby Unit at CHOC (Level IV), and the CHOC NICU at St. Joseph Hospital (Level II).

The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) serves as an advanced practice registered nurse who brings expert clinical knowledge and leadership to support high-quality, evidence-based care. Working across three spheres of impact—patient, nursing practice, and organizational systems—the CNS provides clinical consultation, leads quality improvement initiatives, and advances nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and experiences.

Pay Range

Minimum $141,440.00 Midpoint $176,800.00 Maximum $221,000.00

Rate of pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to knowledge, skills, competencies, experience, education, as well as position requirements.

Experience

• Required: Minimum two (2) years of pediatric nursing care experience in specialty area (NICU).

• Preferred: One (1) year of previous experience in CNS role.

Education

• Required: Master of Science degree in Nursing from an accredited school.

Training

• Required: None required.

• Preferred: Specialty based certifications.

Specialized Skills

• Required: Knowledge of regulatory/accreditation agency standards. Knowledge of current trends and issues in specialty. Effective oral and written communication skills. Staff development and needs assessment techniques. Interpersonal relationship skills including problem solving Organizational and prioritization skills. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills; motivational skills and the ability to set goals and evaluate results in accordance with the highest standards. Provides care with sensitivity and respect. Advances care through development of new ideas and technology; promotes teamwork to achieve CHOC's mission; understands and exceed customer expectations; effective computer and presentation skills.

Licensure

• Required: Basic Life Support (BLS); Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS); Registered Nurse – CA (RN). Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

• Preferred: Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS); Advance Trauma Course RN (ATCN); Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course; Trauma Nursing Core Course; Comprehensive Crisis Management - CHOC. For associates in the NICU Department: Neonatal Resuscitation Provider (NRP) is required.

Work Environments - Functional Demand:

Sedentary - Very light energy level Lift 10 lbs. box overhead. Lift and carry 15 lbs. Push/pull 20 lbs. cart.

Physical Activity Requirements:

Bending, Carry Objects, Climbing, Keyboard use/repetitive motion, Pinching/fine motor activities, Push/Pull, Reaching forward, Reaching overhead, Sitting, Squat/kneel/crawl (Squad & Knee), Standing, Talk or hear, Taste or smell, Twisting, Walking, Wrist position deviation

Physical Activity Lifting

Lifting (Floor to waist level) - Constant 67 or more%, Lifting (Floor to waist level) - Frequent 36-66%, Lifting (Floor to waist level) - Occasional 0-35%, Lifting (Waist level and above) - Constant 67 or more%, Lifting (Waist level and above) - Frequent 36-66%, Lifting (Waist level and above) - Occasional 0-35%

Sensory Requirements:

Color Discrimination, Depth Perception, Far Vision, Hearing, Near Vision

Environment Requirements:

Airborn Communicable Disease, Bloodborne Pathogens, Chemical, Dust Particular Matter, Extreme Noise Levels, Extreme Temperatures, Radiation, Uneven Surfaces or Elevations

Non-Discrimination Statement:

CHOC does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, genetic information, disability, sex, gender (including pregnancy, breastfeeding, childbirth, lactation or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, medical condition, sexual orientation, veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or other protected characteristics in accordance with state and federal laws.

We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply for positions at CHOC, even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with the listed qualifications for a particular role, as your unique experience may be a great addition to our culture for another one of our opportunities.

If you desire support or accommodations throughout the Talent Acquisition process, please inform your Talent Acquisition Partner.

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