Job Description: Registered Nurse – NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) & PICU (Paediatric Intensive Care Unit)
Location: Australia / New Zealand (Hospitals, Day Surgery Units, Private Clinics)
Industry: Healthcare / Hospital & Emergency Services
Work Setting: Public Hospitals, Private Hospitals, and Aged Care Facilities
Nos.# of Open Positions – 09
Position Summary:
A Registered Nurse (NICU) provides care to critically ill newborns, including premature infants and those with congenital conditions or complications post-delivery. The role involves working in a highly specialized environment with advanced medical technology, ensuring the highest standards of neonatal care.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate neonatal nursing care.
- Monitor vital signs and administer medications, fluids, and nutrition via specialized equipment.
- Operate NICU equipment such as ventilators and incubators.
- Collaborate with neonatologists, paediatricians, and other medical professionals.
- Educate and support parents and families, including discharge planning and follow-up care.
- Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with hospital policies and health regulations.
- Respond to emergencies and provide resuscitation when required.
- Participate in ongoing professional development and training.
Required Qualifications & Skills:
- Registered Nurse (RN) license in Australia (AHPRA) or New Zealand (NCNZ).
- Minimum of 1–2 years of NICU or neonatal care experience (some roles accept general paediatric or maternity experience).
- Postgraduate qualification in neonatal nursing (preferred but not always required).
- Current BLS/ALS/NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation Program) certification.
- Strong communication, empathy, and critical-thinking skills.
- Ability to work in rotating shifts, including nights and weekends.
Salary Range
Australia (AUD):
- Base Salary: AUD 70,000 – 105,000 per year
- Hourly Rate: AUD 35 – 50/hour (depending on experience and location)
- Overtime/Shift Penalties: Additional allowances for nights, weekends, and holidays
New Zealand (NZD):
- Base Salary: NZD 65,000 – 95,000 per year
- Hourly Rate: NZD 32 – 45/hour
- Public Sector Nurses: Salaries are structured under collective agreements (e.g., DHBs)
Senior NICU nurses, nurse educators, or nurse unit managers can earn significantly more.
Benefits
Common Benefits in Both Countries:
- Relocation assistance (for overseas nurses): airfare, initial accommodation, visa sponsorship
- Professional development and paid study leave
- Paid annual leave: 4–5 weeks
- Sick leave and parental leave entitlements
- Superannuation/pension contributions (Australia: typically 11%)
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) for mental health support
- Health insurance subsidies (in some private hospitals)
- Flexible working arrangements and job-sharing options
- Pathways to permanent residency for qualified international nurses
Work Settings
- Tertiary hospitals with Level III NICUs
- Private maternity hospitals
- Regional hospitals with special care nurseries
- Children’s hospitals (e.g., Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne or Starship in Auckland)