Lead with confidence and make a real impact across a busy rural hospital after hours.
Employment Type: Casual
Position Classification: Nurse Manger Grade 2
Remuneration: $75.35 - $76.85 per hour + 12% Superannuation + Salary Packaging
Requisition ID: REQ684644
Location: Cessnock
Closing Date: Sunday 20th September 2026
About the Opportunity
Cessnock is located just one hour west of Newcastle and the beautiful Hunter coastline. Renowned for its world-class vineyards, vibrant local community and close connection to the region's mining and energy industries, Cessnock offers an enviable lifestyle combining country charm with modern conveniences.
Cessnock District Hospital is a Level 3 rural facility providing a broad range of healthcare services to the local community. The Emergency Department manages approximately 22,000 presentations annually and is supported by a highly skilled multidisciplinary team, including GP Visiting Medical Officers, nursing staff, allied health professionals, radiographers and support services. Our inpatient units provide general medical and surgical care appropriate to a Level 3 rural hospital, with a strong focus on delivering safe, high-quality and patient-centred care.
You'll be joining a collaborative and supportive workplace culture built on teamwork, mutual respect and shared learning. Comprehensive site and role-specific orientation will be provided, along with opportunities to undertake relevant leadership and management education.
What You Will Be Doing
As the After Hours Nurse Manager Level 2, you will play a critical leadership role in overseeing the operational management of the hospital after hours and during periods when the Health Service Manager is unavailable.
In this role, you will:
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Provide leadership, coordination and support across the facility after hours.
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Oversee patient flow and bed management to ensure safe and efficient service delivery.
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Coordinate staffing resources and respond to operational issues as they arise.
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Support clinical teams in delivering high-quality patient care.
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Manage escalation processes and facilitate timely decision-making.
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Collaborate with medical, nursing, allied health and support services staff.
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Respond to clinical and operational incidents and support effective resolution.
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Promote patient safety, quality care and compliance with NSW Health policies and procedures.
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Provide guidance, support and leadership to staff across the facility.
This role requires strong clinical leadership, sound judgement and the ability to coordinate multiple priorities in a dynamic healthcare environment.
About You
We are seeking an experienced and confident nursing leader who can effectively manage hospital operations after hours while supporting staff and ensuring high-quality patient care.
You will bring:
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Current registration as a Registered Nurse with AHPRA.
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Relevant management qualification or equivalent work experience, or a combination of study and experience with a demonstrated commitment to professional development.
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Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the management and delivery of healthcare services.
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Proven leadership experience and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.
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Strong knowledge of patient flow, bed management and operational coordination.
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Excellent communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
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The ability to make sound clinical and operational decisions in a fast-paced environment.
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A collaborative approach and the ability to build positive relationships across all levels of the organisation.
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A proactive attitude, resilience and flexibility.
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Commitment to patient-centred care, safety and continuous improvement.
Most importantly, you will be a visible and approachable leader who supports staff, fosters teamwork and contributes positively to the culture of the hospital.
Lead and manage the clinical services team to provide excellent patient/client care within the service/unit/facility to maximise the health outcomes for the community.
What we can offer you:
✅ Opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development
✅ Sustainable Healthcare: Together towards zero
✅ Salary packaging options - up to $11,600 plus novated leasing
✅ Fitness Passport for health and well-being - discounted gym options for you and your family
✅ Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and family members
✅ The Welcome Experience helps you and your family connect with local people and resources, making it easier to settle in and feel at home in your new community. Learn more at www.nsw.gov.au/welcomeexperience
Additional Information
To be eligible for permanent employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or a permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport. Employment of a temporary visa holder may only occur if no suitable local candidate is identified for the position; in this instance, you may only be offered employment in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa.
We are unable to accommodate visa sponsorship for applicants requiring a visa for this position.
Casual opportunities may be available for recommended applicants
Hunter New England Health is dedicated to fostering a child-safe environment that respects and upholds the rights of children and young people, aligned with NSW Health’s commitment to implementing the Child Safe Standards. We aim to ensure that children and young people feel safe, supported, and included in their care. All current and prospective staff are expected to prioritise the safety, welfare, and well-being of children and young people, actively working to protect them from harm and abuse.
At Hunter New England Local Health District, we are an inclusive employer dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Our commitment to a workforce that reflects the community we care for is essential for delivering the highest quality healthcare to our community. We encourage people with diverse lived experiences to apply. If you require any accommodations or adjustments to the recruitment process please let us know when you apply or at any stage of the process. We will work with you to meet your needs and create the best possible experience. Please contact
[email protected] for confidential support.
Need more information?
about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Yasmin Glover on
[email protected]
Information for Applicants:
Applicants will be assessed against the essential requirements and selection criteria contained within the position description (link below). For assistance addressing selection criteria visit: https://bit.ly/3vL5fq2
Stepping Up Website is a resource designed to help indigenous job applicants apply for positions in NSW Health. For more information, please visit: https://bit.ly/HNEHealthSteppingUp
This is a Category A position. Recommended applicants will be reviewed for compliance with NSW Health policy directive PD2024_015: Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination against Specified Infectious Diseases for Category A positions prior to offer. All new employees must agree to comply with the requirements outlined in the policy.
Salary Packaging: is beneficial to most Hunter New England Health employees and may increase your take-home pay! Salary package a range of personal expenses including novated motor vehicle leases, relocation expenses, and HECS/HELP debt. by contacting SalaryPackagingPLUS! via
[email protected] or 1300 40 25 23.
Hunter New England Health employees may be eligible for a range of benefits such as allocated days off (ADO) for full time employees, long service leave, paid maternity leave, and salary packaging options including meal expenses.
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