Lead perioperative nursing support as CNS-FSA in cardiothoracic surgery

Clinical Nurse Specialist - First Surgical Assist Cardiothoracic

Waikato Hospital, Hamilton

Permanent, part-time (0.6 FTE)

Advance your clinical practice and develop specialised skills within cardiothoracic surgery

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Registered Nurse with a strong background in surgical or theatre nursing to join our Cardiothoracic Service.

This role is ideal for a motivated nurse who is passionate about advancing their clinical practice and developing specialised skills within cardiothoracic surgery. As an integral member of the multidisciplinary cardiothoracic team, you will work alongside surgeons and perioperative staff to support the delivery of high-quality patient care.

A structured orientation and education programme will be provided to support your development within the RN First Surgical Assist role. The successful candidate will be expected to complete the RN-FSA qualification within 18 months of appointment.

About the Team/Service

The Clinical Nurse Specialist First Surgical Assist team plays a vital role within the Cardiothoracic Service at Waikato Hospital. This dynamic and highly skilled team supports cardiothoracic surgical procedures and contributes to the efficient delivery of perioperative services.

Over the past two years, the CNS-FSA team has successfully implemented endoscopic vessel harvesting techniques for vein and artery grafts. This innovative approach has been shown to reduce wound infection rates, minimise post-operative pain, and improve patient outcomes.

We offer a supportive and collaborative working environment, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a progressive service committed to continuous improvement and innovation.

About Hamilton

Waikato Hospital is a major regional hospital in Hamilton and is a leading tertiary teaching hospital located in Hamilton, New Zealand, serving as the regional hub for the Midland area, which includes the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Lakes, Tairawhiti, and Taranaki districts. With around 722 inpatient beds, 22 operating theatres, and a dedicated outpatient clinic and procedure centre, Waikato Hospital provides comprehensive hospital services, including radiology, laboratory, and pharmacy. As a major teaching hospital with affiliations to the University of Auckland, University of Waikato, and Wintec, it offers a dynamic learning environment and access to research opportunities. The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities located on the Waiora Waikato Hospital Campus, with both road and air ambulance support.

Hamilton, where Waikato Hospital is situated, is a vibrant city nestled alongside the scenic Waikato River, offering a perfect mix of nature and culture. Explore the stunning Hamilton Gardens, home to themed gardens from Italy to Asia, or visit the Waikato Museum to delve into the region's rich history. The city also boasts the Hamilton Zoo, where you can walk through an aviary filled with native birds. Hamilton is a lively hub, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, along with events like rugby, cricket, and the famous National Agricultural Fieldays and Balloons over Waikato festival. With its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures, Hamilton is an ideal place to live and work.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will have:

  • Registered Nurse registration with a current Annual Practising Certificate
  • Minimum of five years' nursing experience, including recent surgical or perioperative/theatre nursing experience
  • Knowledge and understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in healthcare practice
  • Relevant postgraduate qualification or a commitment to working towards one
  • Completion of a Professional Development and Recognition Programme (PDRP) at Proficient level or above
  • Ability to work autonomously and confidently within a specialised clinical environment
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
  • Collaborative approach and commitment to multidisciplinary teamwork
  • Adaptability, flexibility, and a willingness to embrace new challenges and learning opportunities

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply please click Apply online or apply via our Waikato Careers website.

All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11:59 pm on Thursday, 17 September 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Kendra Corey at Kendra.Corey@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert.

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