Nursing Manager

The START Center for Cancer Research (“START”) is the world’s largest early phase site network, fully dedicated to oncology clinical research. Throughout our history, START has provided hope to cancer patients in global community practices by offering access to cutting-edge trials throughout the US and Europe. Today, with over 1,300 studies completed, and with research facilities in the United States and in Spain, Portugal, and Ireland, START’s mission is to accelerate the development of new anticancer drugs that will improve the quality of life and survival for patients with cancer and lead to its eventual cure. To date, over 43 therapies conducted at START locations have obtained FDA/EMA approval. Incredibly, while Academic Medical Centers (AMCs) conduct 80% of cancer trials, such trials reach only 20% of the patient population – leaving the majority of patients who are treated in community practices and hospitals without access to a clinical trial when their care journey calls for one. START serves the many – by bringing cancer trials to physicians and their patients in community hospitals and practices when hope is needed most.

START represents the world’s largest roster of Principal Investigators (PIs) across its eight clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world. As an example, in San Antonio, where START was founded, START treated the first patient ever with Keytruda – the most effective cancer drug in medical history.

We are hiring a Nurse Manager for our Grand Rapids, MI location.

Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM, with occasional minimal coverage as needed.

Position Summary:

The Nurse Manager oversees the infusion nursing team providing care for Phase 1 oncology patients. This role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based nursing care, managing infusion operations, and coordinating with clinical research teams to ensure adherence to protocols. The Nurse Manager is also responsible for the professional development, training, and competency of the nursing staff while fostering a collaborative and patient-centered care environment.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Supervision: Provide proactive leadership and supervision to the team of infusion nurses and supporting clinical roles, including the scheduling team. Support team members in achieving both individual and department goals, ensuring efficient, high-quality patient care.
• Staff Development: Mentor and develop the infusion nursing team through ongoing training, education, and performance evaluations. Ensure that nurses have the necessary skills and knowledge to manage Phase 1 oncology patients safely and effectively.
• Clinical Oversight: Ensure that infusion treatments are delivered in accordance with established protocols, patient care plans, and safety standards. Provide clinical support and guidance to nurses, assisting with complex cases and ensuring the highest standard of care.
• Quality Assurance: Monitor and maintain adherence to internal standard operating procedures and ensure ongoing compliance with clinical research protocols, federal regulations, and organizational policies.
• Patient Care Coordination: Oversee the coordination of care for Phase 1 oncology patients, including facilitating communication between the infusion team, research coordinators, and other healthcare providers. Ensure timely scheduling of infusions and address any time-sensitive issues that arise.
• Process Improvement: Lead continuous quality improvement initiatives to optimize workflows, improve patient outcomes, and enhance operational efficiency within the infusion unit. Address areas for improvement proactively and ensure staff adherence to new processes.
• Protocol Feasibility and Support: Review Phase 1 oncology study protocols to assess their feasibility with respect to nursing operations. Collaborate with research coordinators and other clinical staff to ensure seamless integration of research protocols into clinical care.
• Collaboration: Foster effective communication and collaboration with other clinical and administrative departments, including regulatory, PK lab, pharmacy, clinical research, and finance teams, to ensure compliance and successful patient outcomes.
• Documentation and Compliance: Ensure that all infusion procedures, patient interactions, and research-related activities are documented accurately in EHR and other relevant systems. Maintain compliance with clinical research regulations (GCP, FDA, HIPAA, etc.).
• Performance Metrics: Track and evaluate key performance metrics related to infusion operations, patient care, staff performance, and research study adherence. Provide regular reports and recommendations for improvement to senior leadership.
• Resource Management: Ensure appropriate staffing levels and resources are available to meet patient care needs. Work with senior management to address any staffing or equipment shortages.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) or higher.
• Current RN license in good standing with the state.
• ONS/ONCC chemotherapy and immunotherapy certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Extensive experience in oncology nursing, particularly with Phase 1 clinical trials or infusion services.
• Knowledge of GCP, federal research regulations, and clinical research protocols.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and clinical documentation systems.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Advanced degree in nursing, leadership, or a related field.
• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification.
• Previous experience managing a team of oncology or infusion nurses in a clinical research setting.

Physical and Travel Requirements:

• Required to travel up to 5% of the time.
• Approximately 80% of time is spent sitting or standing in a clinical setting.
• Fast-paced and ever-evolving healthcare environment with demanding deadlines.
• Frequent interaction with multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, researchers, and other healthcare providers.

Best-in-Class Benefits and Perks

We value our employees’ time and efforts. Our commitment to your success is enhanced by a competitive compensation, depending on experience, and an extensive benefits package including:

• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance provided
• Robust retirement planning: 401(k) plan available with employer matching
• Financial security: Life and disability insurance for added protection
• Flexible financial options: Health savings and flexible spending accounts offered
• Well-being and work-life balance: Paid time off, flexible schedule, and remote work choices provided

Plus, we work to maintain the best environment for our employees, where people can learn and grow with the company. We strive to provide a collaborative, creative environment where everyone feels encouraged to contribute to our processes, decisions, planning, and culture.

More about The START Center for Cancer Research

Deeply rooted in community oncology centers globally, The START Center for Cancer Research provides access to specialized preclinical and early-phase clinical trials of novel anti-cancer agents. START clinical trial sites have conducted more than a thousand early-phase clinical trials, including for 43 therapies that were approved by the FDA. START represents the world’s largest roster of Principal Investigators (PIs) across its eight clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world. Learn more at STARTresearch.com.

Ready to be part of a team changing the future of cancer treatment?

Join us in our mission to conquer cancer, one clinical trial at a time. Your expertise and dedication can help us bring hope and healing to patients worldwide. Please submit your application online.

We are an equal opportunity employer that welcomes and encourages diversity in the workplace.