CLINICAL EDUCATOR

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Clinical Educator will play a key role in developing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs aimed at enhancing the clinical knowledge and competencies of nursing staff. This position is responsible for fostering a supportive learning environment that promotes professional development and excellence in care. Additionally, the Clinical Educator will serve as the lead clinical facilitator for the onboarding and orientation of newly hired staff, while also providing ongoing guidance and support as a clinical resource.

JOB SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assessment of Learning Needs:

Conduct needs assessments to identify areas of improvement in clinical practice, ensuring that the educational programs meet the specific needs of nursing staff and address gaps in clinical competencies.

• Curriculum Development and Implementation:

Design, develop, and deliver evidence-based educational programs that meet the needs of various learning styles. The content should align with organizational goals, professional standards, and regulatory requirements.

Ensure that educational activities are implemented in a professional and timely manner, adjusts content and teaching strategies appropriate to learner needs, and documents teaching/learning process and outcomes.

• Clinical Facilitator for Onboarding & Orientation:

Serve as the lead clinical facilitator for the onboarding and orientation of new nursing staff, ensuring that all new hires receive a comprehensive, structured, and effective introduction to clinical practices, policies, and organizational culture.

o Guide new nurses through essential clinical skills, processes, and expectations in a supportive, hands-on learning environment.

o Collaborates with leadership to ensure that the onboarding process meets organizational standards and supports retention and employee satisfaction.

o Collaborates with Human Resources to ensure all new hires receive appropriate facility orientation.

• Teaching and Facilitation:

Provide direct instruction, mentorship, and coaching to nursing staff in clinical settings. Foster a collaborative learning environment that encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and the integration of best practices in patient care.

• Ongoing Clinical Resource and Support:

Serve as a clinical resource to nursing staff by providing guidance on clinical practice, troubleshooting challenges, and offering expertise on complex patient care situations.

o Function as a resource for staff in need of assistance with clinical decision-making or educational support.

o Provide continuous support for staff in maintaining competence in their roles.

• Evaluation of Educational Programs:

Continuously assess the effectiveness of educational initiatives through learner feedback, outcome measures, and performance data. Use this data to revise programs and ensure ongoing improvement in nursing practice.

• Professional Development and Continuing Education:

Support and guide nursing staff in achieving continuing education requirements and professional certifications. Encourage lifelong learning and participation in professional development activities.

• Compliance with Regulatory Standards:

Ensure that educational programs adhere to regulatory and accrediting bodies.

Ensure that educational programs are congruent with policies.

• Collaboration and Teamwork:

Work closely with other members of the healthcare team, including physicians, allied health professionals, and leadership, to ensure that educational programs are integrated into the daily practice and culture of the organization.

• Evidence-Based Practice:

Stay informed on the latest trends, evidence, and innovations in nursing education and clinical practice. Encourage the integration of evidence-based practice into clinical education programs to enhance patient care outcomes.

• Other duties as assigned.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a related field preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of 3 years of clinical nursing experience in a healthcare setting.
• Prior experience in clinical education, training, or a similar role preferred.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

• Current unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of Texas.
• Board Certification in Nursing Professional Development (NPD-BC) preferred.
• BLS and ACLS required.
• Behavioral management and de-escalation techniques training as required by the facility.
• PALS preferred.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to evaluate and assess educational outcomes.
• Proficiency in the use of learning management systems and other educational technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.