Clinical Nurse Specialist

Employment Type: Temporary Full Time (up to 5/11/26)

Position Classification: Clinical Nurse Specialist Grade 2

Remuneration: $ $120,469.88 pa (+ superannuation + salary packaging options)

Location: Orange, NSW – Find out more

Hours Per Week: 38

Applications Close: 10 November 2025 – 11:59pm

Clinical Nurse Specialist – Senior Clinical Trials Nurse

Orange Health Service – Clinical Trial and Research Unit

About the role

We are excited to introduce a new pilot role within the Orange Clinical Trials Research Unit (OCTRU). The Senior Clinical Trials Nurse will provide integral clinical leadership to the unit, mentoring both new and existing staff, contributing meaningfully to quality improvement projects, and helping to shape the clinical trials that come to the Orange region. This is a unique opportunity to join a small, multidisciplinary team supporting research across the Local Health District, including five registered nurses, pharmacy and administrative staff, and the Clinical Trials Manager. The team works closely with haematology, oncology, and radiation oncology services to deliver high-quality clinical trials.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in clinical trials, with a deep understanding of research nursing, study coordination, and the practical application of Good Clinical Practice (GCP). They will have proven experience mentoring and educating nursing staff in a variety of settings, from one-on-one guidance to small group teaching and in-service training. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential, enabling the Senior Clinical Trials Nurse to collaborate effectively across disciplines and contribute clinical expertise to both the unit and the wider Local Health District. This role requires someone who can provide practical and strategic advice, helping shape trial feasibility, design, and delivery in the Orange region, while supporting the professional development of the team.

We are a flexible team and can negotiate start and finish times to support work-life balance wherever possible.

As the Senior Clinical Trials Nurse at the Orange Clinical Trials Research Unit (OCTRU), no two days are the same, but each offers the opportunity to make a real impact on patient care, research, and nursing practice in the region.

A typical week combines direct clinical work, mentoring, and strategic input. You might start your day seeing trial participants, conducting follow-ups, collecting and processing blood samples, and ensuring all associated data is accurately recorded. Your clinical expertise ensures participants receive safe, high-quality care and that studies run smoothly.

Mid-week, you could be mentoring one of the registered nurses, providing guidance on clinical trial procedures, troubleshooting complex cases, or running a small in-service to share knowledge on Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and research nursing standards. Your leadership helps the team grow in confidence and skill while maintaining consistency and quality in trial delivery.

You will also spend part of your week working closely with the Clinical Trials Manager, providing clinical advice on workload capacity, resourcing, and patient care considerations that inform operational decisions. This includes contributing to feasibility assessments and giving nursing input to the Clinical Trials Executive Committee, helping shape which trials come to the Orange region and ensuring they are set up for success.

The successful candidate will be supported through corporate orientation, integration into the wider team, and connection with Ministry of Health-level communities of practice and local LHD professional networks. Opportunities for ongoing professional development, including funded conference attendance and workshops, will support continuous learning and career growth in clinical research.

The role will be piloted for 12 months with a possibility of extension pending funding.

To find out more about the role click to view the Position Description

A career with Western NSW means you can challenge yourself, make an impact and shape the future of rural health. To explore the benefits of a career in our Local Health District, visit the WNSWLHD website.

To apply for this role:

• Click 'Apply'
• Create a profile in the Recruitment & Onboarding (ROB) System or sign in using your existing login
• Upload your current resume
• Answer the selection criteria

Role-related enquiries: Please contact Aaron Jackson, Clinical Trials Manager on or at for more information.

Additional information for applicants:

• All suitably qualified Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply for this position. This is a targeted position under GSE Rule 26. Where possible, affirmative action will be applied to support employment of eligible persons.
• This recruitment may be used to create an Eligibility List for similar roles in the future.
• Western NSW LHD can provide reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Applicants who provide information on an injury, health condition, or disability in their pre-employment forms will receive a functional assessment from our Risk Management Unit (RMU). This review will consider the applicant's needs and what reasonable adjustments and workplace supports are available to support their employment journey.
• Western NSW LHD is committed to the safety and wellbeing of every child in our care. All staff in WNSWLHD are required to provide a safe and supportive environment for children, while working to protect them from harm and abuse. For more information on the Child Safety Standards, visit: NSW Government - Office of Children's Guardian
• Western NSW is committed to creating a safe and accessible workplace that promotes diversity, inclusion and belonging. As a vibrant and diverse region, rich in community and culture, we welcome applications from all people to build a respectful workplace dedicated to delivering the best health outcomes for our community.
• To find out more about the remuneration and conditions, visit NSW Public Health System Awards
• For more information, visit a Guide to Employment with WNSWLHD