The Outpatient Clinical Nurse position in the Thoracic Radiation Oncology clinic at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center provides specialized outpatient nursing care for patients receiving radiation therapy for thoracic malignancies, including lung cancer and other cancers affecting the chest. The Outpatient Clinical Nurse collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to support symptom management, patient education, treatment coordination, and continuity of care throughout the radiation oncology treatment journey. The Outpatient Clinical Nurse serves as a critical resource for patients and families navigating complex oncology treatment plans in an ambulatory setting.
The ideal candidate is a registered nurse with experience in outpatient oncology, radiation oncology, or other complex clinical environments. Candidates should demonstrate strong clinical judgment, effective communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with physicians and interdisciplinary teams. A commitment to evidence-based practice, patient education, care coordination, and continuous professional growth is preferred. Licensure, education, and professional preparation should align with nursing practice standards.
Salary Range (Annual): Minimum $68,000 - Midpoint $105,000 - Maximum $142,000
Hourly Breakdown (40-hour work week): Minimum $32.69 - Midpoint $50.48 - Maximum $68.27
The typical work schedule is shift hours typically fall between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., with 8-hour shift variations that may include early or late shifts based on operational needs. Occasional weekend and holiday coverage may also be required.
Work Location: Houston, TX
ResponsibilitiesPatient Care Management• Assess patient needs utilizing clinical, visual, aural, and analytical skills
• Manage and provide comprehensive patient care in the outpatient clinical setting
• Administer medications and treatments in accordance with approved standards of care
• Perform clinical procedures and respond appropriately to patient care needs and emergencies
• Utilize appropriate clinical technology to support safe and effective patient care
Care Coordination & Collaboration• Collaborate with physicians, advanced practice providers, and interdisciplinary team members to develop and evaluate care plans
• Coordinate services across the continuum of care to support optimal patient outcomes
• Facilitate discharge planning and follow-up care as appropriate
• Educate patients and families regarding treatment plans, symptom management, and self-care strategies
• Advocate for patients and families while supporting patient rights and informed decision-making
Clinical Practice & Quality• Integrate age-specific care needs and oncology nursing principles into daily practice
• Apply evidence-based practice to guide clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes
• Support compliance with institutional policies, standards, and regulatory requirements
• Participate in data collection activities related to clinical research studies and quality initiatives
• Contribute to ongoing practice improvement efforts within the clinic
Team Leadership & Support• Organize and prioritize patient care activities to ensure efficient clinic operations
• Provide guidance and support to members of the patient care team
• Assist with training, coaching, and mentoring team members as needed
• Promote collaborative teamwork and effective communication across disciplines
• Support appropriate utilization of clinical resources and operational workflows
EDUCATION- Required: Graduation from an accredited school of professional nursing.
- Preferred: Bachelor's Degree Nursing.
WORK EXPERIENCE- Required: None
- Preferred: Radiation Oncology nursing experience
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS- Required: RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure Current State of Texas Professional Nursing license. Upon Hire and
- Required: BLS - Basic Life Support Upon Hire or
- Required: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Upon Hire and
- Required: ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support If working in the following department: ASC Post Anesthesia (600761). Upon Hire or
- Required: PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support If working in the following departments: ASC Post Anesthesia (600761) or Pedi - Child & Adolescent Center (113200). Upon Hire
- Preferred: OCN - Oncology Nurse Certification Certification in specialty practice area. Upon Hire
OTHER REQUIREMENTS: All clinical nurses with less than one year of registered nurse (RN) work experience will be required to participate in the Clinical Nurse Residency Program.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition.
This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.
