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Chief Nurse Officer at National Institutes of Health

National Institutes of Health

Published on October 27, 2026

LocationUnited States DeadlineNovember 5, 2026 · OPEN Job typeFull-time International applicantsNo

About the opportunity

The NIH Clinical Center Nursing Department (CCND) is seeking a Chief Nurse Officer (CNO) to serve as a key member of the executive team. The CNO will oversee strategic planning, program direction, and budget strategies for the nursing department. Responsibilities include monitoring personnel changes, initiating non-discriminatory recruitment and promotion practices, and coordinating long-range strategic plans to ensure the availability of a high-performing staff. The role is based at the NIH Clinical Center, a 200-bed research hospital and ambulatory care facility designated as Magnet with Distinction. This is an emergency essential position requiring 24/7 availability.

Salary and benefits

  • Salary range: $169,279 – $197,200 per annum
  • Federal employee benefits package
  • Potential for salary above the minimum based on superior qualifications

Who can apply?

  • Graduate or higher level degree, bachelor's degree, associate degree, or diploma from an accredited professional nursing educational program
  • Current, active, full and unrestricted license or registration as a professional nurse from a U.S. state, D.C., Puerto Rico, or territory
  • Passed the NCLEX-RN or obtained licensure before its implementation
  • At least one full year of professional nursing experience at the GS-14 level in the federal service or equivalent private/public sector experience
  • Demonstrated experience in establishing complex nursing programs, leading interdisciplinary teams, and cultivating a strong workforce

Required documents

  • Resume (maximum two pages, including specific employment details and education history)
  • Completed application questionnaire
  • Unofficial transcripts (official transcripts required if selected)
  • Documentation for Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) if applicable

When to apply

  • Application deadline: 2026-11-05 at 11:59 PM ET

How to apply

  • Read the full announcement on USAJOBS
  • Complete the online application and questionnaire
  • Upload all required documentation
  • Submit the application via the USAJOBS portal before the deadline

Additional information

  • This is an emergency essential position requiring 24/7, 365-day availability
  • A one or two-year trial/probationary period may be required
  • The NIH is a tobacco-free work environment
  • The position is covered by direct hire authority; traditional rating and ranking do not apply
  • Veterans' preference does not apply

Our Take on This Opportunity

This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.

You may be a strong fit if…

  • Experienced nurse leaders with a background in federal GS-14 level roles or equivalent executive-level nursing management
  • Professionals with a proven track record in strategic planning, budget management, and leading interdisciplinary teams in a hospital setting
  • Candidates who thrive in research-focused clinical environments and are committed to Magnet-designated standards of care

What should you think carefully about?

  • The role is designated as 'emergency essential,' requiring 24/7 availability and the ability to report for duty under all circumstances, including government closures
  • The application is strictly limited to a two-page resume; exceeding this limit will result in only the first two pages being reviewed
  • The position is based in Montgomery County, Maryland, and requires physical presence for emergency essential duties

How could this fit your current goals and plans?

This role offers a high-level leadership opportunity within one of the world's premier research hospitals. It is an ideal fit for a senior nurse executive looking to influence organizational strategy, workforce development, and patient care standards at a national level. The position provides a stable, high-salary federal career path for those dedicated to public service and clinical excellence.

Our take

This is a significant leadership opportunity for experienced nurse executives who meet the specific GS-15 federal requirements. It is best suited for those who are prepared for the high-stakes, 24/7 commitment of an emergency essential role and who can concisely demonstrate their executive-level experience within the strict two-page resume limit.

Ready to apply?

Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.

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Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS

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