Staff Development Specialist, Step-Down Trauma

VHC Health•Arlington, VA

66d

About The Position

At VHC Health, we are committed to developing the next generation of nurses and advancing clinical excellence. As a Staff Development Specialist II , you’ll play a key role in supporting nursing staff through education, coaching, and mentorship. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and values the opportunity to make a meaningful impact across the hospital. Why Join This Team: Variety in Each Day: No two days are the same. Your day might begin with the 7:00 AM shift or a 7:30 huddle, followed by rounding on new hires or leading educational classes such as Basic Dysrhythmia, Charge Nurse, or Preceptor training. Broad Impact: Our educators support all units across the hospital, working with staff from various backgrounds and generations. Supportive Culture: The team blends long-standing experience with fresh perspectives. Some educators have been here more than 10 years, while others bring new energy to the department. Growth Opportunities: Team members have advanced from unit-based educator roles into leadership areas such as simulation and pipeline development. Work-Life Balance: While the tasks change daily, there is consistency in work hours and a team culture that values flexibility and balance. Special Initiatives: Our department leads programs like “Camp Med,” a summer event that introduces middle school students to healthcare careers—an exciting opportunity that reflects our commitment to education and community engagement. About VHC Health: VHC Health is a 453-bed not-for-profit hospital and teaching facility that has served the Washington, DC metropolitan area for over 75 years. We are proud to be a Magnet-designated hospital and a Level II Trauma Center. VHC Health was recently recognized by Newsweek as one of the “World’s Best Hospitals” for 2025 and serves as the women's health provider for the Washington Commanders. Job Description Purpose & Scope: The Staff Development Specialist I is involved in the training and professional development of staff at all levels of the organization. Unit based Staff Development Specialist I may oversee direct and indirect care of patients. Interpretive skills, frequent interactive and consultative collaborations, along with demonstrated leadership ability are inherent in the position. The position requires knowledge of both department and hospital policies and procedures as well as standard practice guidelines and regulatory requirements. The ability to retrieve, communicate or otherwise present information in a written, auditory or visual fashion is essential. Written, telephone, and manual dexterity skills are required for this position.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in nursing is to be obtained within 24 months or equivalent experience in nursing is required.
A master's degree in nursing is preferred or a doctorate degree in physical therapy, master's degree in occupational therapy, or a master's degree in speech language pathology is required.
Five years of healthcare/medical - nursing/patient care experience in a relevant discipline is preferred.
Certification in an area of specialty, we eligible is to be obtained within 12 months.
Licensed as a Registered Nurse by the Virginia Department of Health Professions, compact state licensure in nursing, licensed as an Occupational Therapist by the Virginia Department of Health Professions , licensed as a Physical Therapist by the Virginia Department of Health Professions , or licensed as a Speech Language Pathologist by the Virginia Department of Health Professions is required.
BLS certification is required.
Membership in one professional organization is preferred.
Depending on the unit the Staff Development Specialist I is assigned to, there may be additional required certifications such as, but not limited to, PALS, ACLS, NRP, Chemotherapy, or NIH Stroke Certification.
ACLS or PALS cards stand as showing competence in BLS Skills per American Heart Association Guidelines. If an employee holds current ACLS or PALS certification, this meets the requirement for BLS in their job description. They do not need to also carry a separate BLS certification.