Unit Director- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (UPMC Presbyterian/3E7D)

This position is eligible for a generous sign-on bonus!

Sign-On Bonus Details:

$20,000 sign-on bonus available for nurses with a 2-year commitment to UPMC.

3E CT Surgery Cardiology is an 18-bed medical cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, and vascular surgery unit caring for patients with medical heart conditions, or who are recovering from heart surgery. Many of our patients have received stents or electrophysiology treatments, and may require chest tubes, temporary pacemakers, and cardiac medications via IV. We work at a fast pace but remain extremely supportive of our nurses and committed to patient comfort and safety.

7D is a 19-bed cardiothoracic surgery acuity adaptable unit caring for patients undergoing state of the art procedures such as MIE surgery, hernia repair via Nissen or LINX, lobectomy and wedge resection, pneumonectomy, and roux-en-y bypass. We receive the majority of our patients from the PACU, SICU, CTICU, or outpatient clinic, making 7D a wonderful unit to learn the skills needed to transition to the ICU. 7D is very busy unit however we've cultivated an outstanding team atmosphere - including surgeons and PAs-working together cohesively to give our patients the best care possible.

Responsibilities:

-Collaborates with medical staff to monitor patient outcomes, set clinical priorities, and implement safety and quality improvements. Tracks dashboard indicators, develops action plans, and uses evidence-based practices to enhance care. Shares improvements across units, analyzes satisfaction data, and supports staff involvement in quality initiatives.

-Fosters positive relationships by mentoring, modeling clear communication, and resolving conflict promptly. Builds trust, listens actively, and ensures transparency. Plans department schedules to support safety and well-being. Communicates effectively across media to engage and inform. Coaches staff on cultural diversity, addresses workplace issues, and creates an inclusive environment that values differences.

-Creates a shared vision by applying critical thinking, financial data, and quality insights in developing the department's operational plan. Engages staff and stakeholders in vision development through shared governance. Manages complex change and supports staff through transitions. Uses effective communication to gain buy-in and adapts to different situations.

-Fosters a patient-centered culture by promoting Relationship-Based Care that addresses clinical, psychological, and spiritual needs. Ensures nurses follow established clinical standards and use evidence-based practices to deliver excellent care. Encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and participation in committees to improve patient services. Sets clinical, financial, and resource priorities aligned with organizational goals, while managing the department budget and ensuring efficient resource use.

-Sets high performance standards and fosters innovation and professional growth. Creates development plans to enhance staff expertise and supports continuing education and certification. Promotes best practices for student and new nurse development and recruits nursing students with exceptional clinical experiences. Encourages shared governance and uses staff feedback to improve care, nursing practice, and the work environment.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 4 years of progressive leadership experience required with relevant clinical experience preferred.
• BS/BSN required at time of hire and master's degree/MSN required. If BS degree not in nursing, a Master's or higher degree in Nursing is required. If Master's degree not in nursing, a BSN is required.If the master's degree/MSN is not present at time of hire, must be enrolled in a Master's or MSN program within one year of hire/transfer date and completed within three years of enrollment.
• The individual must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care and/or interact appropriately to the ages of the patients served by his/her assigned unit as specified below.
• They must also demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs and to provide the care needs as described in the department policy and procedures.
• Analytical ability necessary to evaluate staff, address and improve clinical issues and devise solutions to complex problems.
• Leadership ability to develop staff, establish and maintain standards of performance within a national context for professional nursing practice and comply with administrative requirements.
• Superior interpersonal and communication skills sufficient to effectively create relationships to support a healing environment with patients, families, staff, physicians and hospital personnel including senior management in both written and verbal communication.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
Current licensure as a Registered Professional Nurse in practicing state.

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) within one year of hire
• Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) within thirty days of hire
• Act 34