Clinical Nurse Specialist - Intellectual Disability Service

Porirua

Permanent, Full Time - 1.0 FTE

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora

Provide specialist mental health, addiction and intellectual disability nursing advice, care and expertise, supporting other nurses and mental health workers in delivering whānau‑centred care. The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) works at an advanced level within the RN scope, with increased autonomy, to assist, direct and support tangata whaiora and whānau within the Intellectual Disability Service.

The CNS leads development and implementation of specialist pathways, protocols and guidelines, evaluates standards of care, and promotes evidence‑based practice across a range of settings. The role supports and models exemplary nursing practice, facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration, and provides education.

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• Deliver specialist nursing advice and care in mental health, addiction and intellectual disability settings.
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• Model expert clinical skills, promote best practice and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration.
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• Lead development and implementation of specialist pathways, protocols and guidelines in accordance with national standards.
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• Evaluate and improve standards of care using research and evidence‑based practice.
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• Champion the Intellectual Disability Services model of care and advocate for its principles.
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• Drive quality improvement initiatives and support change implementation.
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• Support a nurse‑led care‑management model for patients and their families.
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• Lead and support excellence in nursing practice under mental health standards.
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• Post‑graduate Certificate or Diploma in Mental Health Nursing or a pre‑registration program in mental health or intellectual disability nursing.
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• Sound knowledge of Te Ao Māramatanga Standards of Practice for Mental Health Nurses.
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• Current NCNZ Registered Nurse Annual Practicing Certificate.
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• Clinical expertise and experience aligned with mental health, addiction or disability nursing.
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• Senior or Senior‑level recognition in theProfessional Development Recognition Programme (PDRP).
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• Excellent communication, interpersonal, facilitation and coaching skills.
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• Strong initiative, motivation, and a commitment to continuous learning.
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• Comprehensive understanding of the NZ Health System, equity issues, professional leadership and emerging nursing issues.
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• Ability to deliver results through effective planning, sound judgement and personal accountability.
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• Commitment to professionalism, integrity, and ethical behaviour.
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• Dedication to a positive, inclusive, and safe working environment.
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Nursing MECA Senior grade 2‑3.

Health New Zealand is committed to being a good employer and honouring equal employment opportunity obligations. We embrace diversity and welcome applications from all people, including all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations and disability. We are a pro‑equity health organisation with a particular focus on Māori, Pacific Peoples and the Disability Community.