Nurse Manager, Operations – Pediatric Cardiac Stepdown

Duke University Hospital – Duke Central Tower, Unit 3A

Duke University Health System is seeking an experienced and compassionate Nurse Manager, Operations to lead our Pediatric Cardiac Stepdown Unit (3A) and support our mission of Advancing Health Together.

About Unit 3A – Pediatric Cardiac Stepdown

Unit 3A is a 17‑bed pediatric cardiac stepdown unit caring for infants through young adults with:

• Congenital heart disease


• Cardiac transplant needs


• Complex chronic conditions requiring tracheostomy/ventilator support

We maintain a 1:3 nurse‑to‑patient ratio, ensuring the highest level of attentive, specialized care.

Position Summary

The Nurse Manager, Operations provides 24/7 leadership and oversight for Unit 3A, ensuring exceptional patient care, clinical quality, staff engagement, and operational efficiency. This role partners closely with clinical and administrative leaders to maintain high standards of practice and a supportive, growth‑oriented work environment.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategic Support

• Participate in the development and execution of unit and departmental strategic and operational plans.


• Champion a professional practice model that promotes shared governance, staff engagement, and evidence‑based care.


• Serve as a visible and accessible leader who openly communicates unit and organizational goals.

Clinical Excellence & Patient Experience

• Advocate for patients, families, and staff to ensure the best possible care experience.


• Maintain clinical competency in the pediatric cardiac specialty and provide bedside support when needed.


• Ensure consistent application of the nursing process from admission through discharge.

Team Development & Workforce Management

• Coach, mentor, and evaluate staff to support professional growth from novice to expert.


• Support a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourage participation in councils and committees.


• Oversee recruitment, hiring, performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, and staff development.

Operations & Quality Management

• Ensure compliance with all clinical standards and hospital policies, including safety, infection control, and quality metrics.


• Lead unit‑based quality improvement initiatives and coordinate QC/PI activities.


• Maintain accurate unit records, reports, and statistics.

Resource & Budget Management

• Collaborate with the Director of Clinical Operations on budgeting and resource allocation.


• Monitor resource utilization and implement action plans to ensure fiscal responsibility.


• Manage equipment, supplies, and unit environment to support efficient operations.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Coordinate patient care activities with multidisciplinary teams to support continuity of care.


• Ensure timely and accurate documentation aligned with hospital and unit policies.

Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support optimal unit operations.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required


• Master’s in Nursing (MSN) strongly preferred

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of nursing experience required
  (Pediatric cardiac or critical care experience preferred but not required)

Licensure & Certifications

• Current or compact RN license in the state of North Carolina


• BCLS certification required

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.