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Position Summary:

The Nurse Extern is a nursing student who participates in a structured learning experience designed to enhance clinical knowledge through direct observation in a real-world healthcare environment. Under the guidance of Registered Nurses and nurse preceptors, externs will observe various aspects of nursing care and interdisciplinary collaboration to support their transition from academic study to clinical practice. Externs are expected to uphold the values, mission, and professional standards of Hunterdon Medical Center.

+ Open to rising senior-level nursing students in an Associate or Baccalaureate program

+ Applicants must have completed core clinical rotations by Spring 2026

+ Must be able to commit to the full 9-week program (May 26th - July 25, 2026)

+ Commitment: 36 hours per week, including weekends

+ Shifts: 4 weeks on days, 4 weeks on nights

Nursing Unit Placement:

Externs are assigned to a specific unit for the duration of the program and are expected to remain on that unit, even if it was not their top choice. While we make every effort to consider individual preferences, final placement decisions are based on unit needs. Assignment details are provided shortly before the program begins. There will be an opportunity to shadow in alternative units/departments.

Externship Details:

External candidates will participate in human resources and staff development training prior to the start of the eight-week externship. The program consists of four weeks on the day shift and four weeks on the night shift, including weekend rotations. Time off is not permitted during the pre-externship training or throughout the duration of the program.

Primary Position Responsibilities:

+ Observe and learn from nursing staff and interdisciplinary teams during patient care, including clinical procedures, assessments, medication administration, patient personal care and interactions.

+ Shadow workflows related to care planning, patient education, care coordination, and attend team rounds, shift reports, and care planning meetings to understand communication and collaboration.

+ Participate in educational sessions and professional development activities while reflecting on observations to integrate clinical practice with classroom learning.

+ Observe care delivery to diverse patient populations and attend special rounds (e.g., NICHE) to gain insights into patient-centered care and geriatric considerations.

Qualifications

Minimum Education:

Required:

High school diploma or equivalent. Must be currently enrolled in nursing school and be a senior-level nursing student who has completed core clinical rotations.

Minimum Years of Experience (Amount, Type and Variation):

Required:

None

License, Registry or Certification:

Required:

Current CPR certification is required.

Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:

Required:

Normal basic patient care equipment, wheelchairs and stretchers. Good interpersonal and communication skills.

Hunterdon Health is committed to providing a competitive benefit package to our employees. Benefit offerings vary based on status and may include but not be limited to medical, dental, vision, family forming, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and retirement savings.

The hiring range listed is the potential base compensation that may be offered to a successful applicant for this position at the time of this job advertisement. When determining an applicant’s hourly rate and/or base salary, several factors may be considered as applicable (e.g., years of relevant experience, education, internal equity, and specialty).