New Grad or Experienced RN - Cardiothoracic Stepdown

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

15d • Onsite

About The Position

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.   About Duke University Hospital Pursue your passion for caring with Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, which is consistently ranked among the best in the United States. The largest of the four Duke Healthhospitals with 1062 patient beds, it features comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, including a regional emergency/trauma center, an endo-surgery center, and more. Duke University Health System- Duke University Hospital seeks to hire a New Graduate or Experienced Registered Nurse who will embrace our mission of Advancing Health Together.

Department Profile:
The 6 East Cardiothoracic Stepdown Unit at Duke University Hospital is comprised of 24 beds. Cardiothoracic Stepdown provides care for adult patients who are transitioning from the Cardiothoracic ICU. The patients require high acuity care with diagnoses such as pre/post cardiothoracic surgery, coronary artery bypass grafts, heart valve repair and replacements, aortic and aneurysm repairs, wedge resections, lobectomies, heart transplants, lung transplants, and ventricular assist devices. The environment is fast paced where you will develop critical thinking skills while surrounded by opportunities for professional growth. Our team is active in delivering exemplary care for each patient to ensure excellent patient experience, every time.

Join a High‑Performing Cardiothoracic Care Team at Duke Health
Duke University Hospital is seeking an experienced Clinical Nurse (RN) to join our renowned 6 East Cardiothoracic Stepdown Unit. As part of our top‑ranked health system, you will provide exemplary nursing care, support complex patient populations, and contribute to a strong culture of collaboration, excellence, and patient‑centered service.
In this role, you will care for adult patients recovering from a broad range of cardiothoracic procedures—including CABG, heart and lung transplants, valve repair/replacement, aortic and aneurysm repairs, lobectomies, VAD therapy, and other high‑acuity conditions. If you’re looking for an environment that challenges your clinical skills and supports your professional growth, this is the place.

Job Summary
As a Clinical Nurse (RN) at Duke University Health System, you will:

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of prior clinical nursing experience required for Clinical Nurse II (CNII)
• Graduation from an accredited: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or Nursing Diploma program
• RNs without a BSN must enroll in a BSN program within 2 years and complete it within 7 years of their start date
• Current RN licensure with the North Carolina Board of Nursing, or compact RN license (NC licensure required within 60 days of start)
• BLS certification required (higher certifications preferred)
• Strong understanding of the nursing process and professional nursing practices
• Ability to assess and meet the needs of acute and chronically ill patients
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to remain organized, focused, and adaptable in a high-acuity environment
• Competency with computer systems and electronic documentation
• Ability to meet physical requirements, including prolonged standing and walking
• Working knowledge of infection control, safety protocols, and regulatory standards
• Joint Commission compliance familiarity
• Pre‑employment Physical Capacity Testing required

Nice To Haves

• Professional nursing specialty certification preferred

Responsibilities

• Provide and supervise both direct and indirect nursing care using the nursing process (assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation)
• Deliver advanced and specialized care aligned with the DUHS Professional Practice Model
• Serve as a resource and role model to other staff
• Participate in departmental committees, professional development, the Clinical Ladder Program, research initiatives, and quality improvement activities
• Promote and maintain a patient‑centered environment that prioritizes safety, respect, and exceptional service
• Deliver care consistent with North Carolina Board of Nursing scope and regulatory requirements

Benefits

• Relocation Assistance (based on eligibility)
• $15,000 Commitment Bonus for eligible experienced RNs - Paid in four equal installments over 24 months (every six months)
• Up to $25,000 Nurse Loan Forgiveness
• Relocation assistance available for Nurses relocating greater than 50 miles to Durham, NC.
• Opportunities for clinical advancement through Duke’s Clinical Ladder Program
• Access to continuing education, certification support, and evidence‑based practice initiatives

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree