Nursing Professional Development Specialist / Outpatient Surgical Services

Emory Healthcare•Atlanta, GA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The system Nursing Professional Development (NPD) Specialist is an advanced-level registered nurse who uses specialized knowledge and skills to support lifelong learning, professional development, and the advancement of nursing practice across the continuum of care. Rooted in the Association Nursing Professional Development's (ANPD) Practice Model, the NPD Specialist acts as a change agent, learning facilitator, mentor, leader, champion for scientific inquiry, and partner for practice transitions. This role fosters a culture of clinical excellence, innovation, and professional growth, driving improvements in staff competence, patient care outcomes, and service line or system-wide initiatives.

Requirements

Master's Degree in Nursing
3 years of clinical nursing experience
2 years in a specialty or system-based performance/quality role
Valid, active unencumbered nursing license approved by the Georgia Licensing Board
BLS
Certification in Nursing Professional Development (e.g. NPD-BX) or obtained within 9 months of hire
Demonstrated expertise in NPD Practice Model roles (learning facilitator, change agent, leader, etc.)
Strong presentation and facilitation skills
Data-driven decision-making and project management experience

Nice To Haves

Doctoral degree (DNP or PHD)
Proficiency with Leaning Management Systems (LMS), simulation technology, and data analytics tool
Instructional design
Deep understanding of regulatory/accreditation standards (e.g. Magnet, The Joint Commission, ANCC)
ACLS and/or PALS if applicable or other specialty certification

Responsibilities

Leads the design, implementation, and evaluation of onboarding programs for nurses and interprofessional staff.
Collaborates with leaders to ensure orientation aligns with strategic goals and staffing models.
Supports role transition programs such as nurse residency, preceptor training, and fellowship models.
Oversees the development, validation, and implementation of competency frameworks across the organization.
Assesses system-wide learning needs through gap analysis, performance data, and regulatory requirements.
Applies evidence-based tools to evaluate staff proficiency and professional growth.
Designs and delivers advanced educational content using multiple modalities (e.g., in-person, eLearning, simulation).
Develops continuing education activities aligned with ANCC criteria.
Ensures integration of adult learning theory, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice in all education initiatives.
Supports role-specific development (e.g., novice-to-expert transitions, leadership development, and advanced practice).
Coaches nurses in career planning, certification preparation, and professional goal setting.
Promotes lifelong learning and reflective practice.
Partners with interprofessional teams, quality leaders, HR, and executive nursing leadership to align educational goals with system priorities.
Serves as a consultant on change initiatives, clinical transformation, and accreditation readiness.
Leads or participates in committees, councils, and strategic planning groups.
Uses data and outcomes to evaluate effectiveness of NPD interventions.
Promotes a culture of innovation, critical inquiry, and continuous improvement.
Additional Duties as Assigned.