Registered Nurse (RN) - Nerancy Neuro ICU (NNICU)

Job Description

In critical care nursing, few opportunities offer the chance to care for patients at the leading edge of neuroscience and neurosurgical medicine. The Neuro Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit (NNICU) at UVA Health is seeking an RN who is energized by complexity, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is passionate about delivering exceptional care to some of the health system’s most critically ill patients.

As a member of this highly specialized ICU team, you will care for patients requiring advanced neurological monitoring, complex interventions, and multidisciplinary critical care management. This is an opportunity to build deep expertise in neuroscience nursing while working alongside experienced clinicians who are committed to innovation, learning, and outstanding patient outcomes.

The Role

The Neuro Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit (NNICU) is a fast-paced, high-acuity environment that cares for patients with some of the most complex neurological and neurosurgical conditions. The unit provides specialized care for patients experiencing acute stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, neurological trauma, spinal cord injury, complex neuromuscular disorders, and patients recovering from neurosurgical procedures.

In this role, you will be challenged clinically, supported by a highly collaborative team, and exposed to advanced technologies and treatment modalities that are not commonly available in many ICUs across the country. No two shifts are the same. Nurses in the NNICU are constantly learning, adapting, and applying critical thinking skills in an environment where clinical expertise can make a life-changing difference for patients and families.

On a typical shift, responsibilities include:

• Performing comprehensive neurological and patient assessments

• Providing continuous monitoring and management of critically ill patients

• Managing complex neurological conditions and rapidly changing patient statuses

• Coordinating care with physicians, advanced practice providers, therapists, and other interdisciplinary team members

• Supporting and educating patients and families throughout the care journey

• Assisting with specialized bedside procedures and advanced neurological interventions

• Managing External Ventricular Drains (EVDs) and supporting lumbar puncture procedures

• Transporting patients for diagnostic and interventional procedures including CT, MRI, and Interventional Radiology

• Participating in quality, safety, and patient experience initiatives that directly impact outcomes

The NNICU offers exposure to highly specialized technologies including:

• IRRAflow® technology, an advanced irrigating External Ventricular Drain system used to deliver medication and fluid while helping clear intracranial blood and clots

• Raumedic Brain Tissue Oxygen Monitoring, providing sophisticated neurologic monitoring capabilities

• Multimodal neurological monitoring technologies that support cutting-edge neuroscience critical care

Why UVA Health

UVA Health is one of the nation’s premier academic health systems, bringing together world-class patient care, groundbreaking research, and a commitment to advancing the future of medicine. For critical care nurses seeking professional growth, few environments offer the same depth of clinical complexity, educational support, and opportunity for specialization.

Within the NNICU, nurses are part of a team known for its collaborative culture, strong peer support, and visible leadership presence. For nurses who enjoy critical thinking, advanced technology, continual growth, and meaningful patient impact, the NNICU provides an exceptional environment to build a rewarding long-term career.

What makes this opportunity stand out:

• Care for highly specialized neurological and neurosurgical patient populations

• Build expertise in advanced stroke care and neuroscience critical care

• Work with rare and innovative technologies not commonly found in other ICUs

• Gain experience caring for patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy, craniotomy, spinal surgery, and advanced neurological interventions

• Develop advanced assessment, monitoring, and critical care nursing skills

• Participate in ongoing quality and patient safety initiatives that directly improve outcomes

• Benefit from strong educational support, continuous learning opportunities, and professional development resources

• Work alongside visible, engaged leaders who remain accessible and actively support nursing staff

• Join a Magnet-inspired nursing culture focused on excellence, collaboration, and patient-centered care

• Become part of a team that values curiosity, innovation, continuous improvement, and lifelong learning

Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

Why People Love Living in Charlottesville

Charlottesville offers a unique combination of professional opportunity and exceptional quality of life. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the region provides easy access to hiking, cycling, wineries, outdoor recreation, and breathtaking natural scenery. Residents enjoy a vibrant food and arts scene, a welcoming community atmosphere, outstanding schools, and a manageable commute that supports a healthy work-life balance. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or a family-friendly place to call home, Charlottesville offers the ideal backdrop for a fulfilling career and lifestyle.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Graduate of an accredited nursing program required. Bachelor of Science in Nursing required within 5 years of hire.

Experience: 1 year of relevant experience.

Licensure: Licensed to Practice as a Registered Nurse in the Commonwealth of Virginia. American Heart Association (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS certification required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Job requires standing for prolonged periods, frequently traveling, bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull 20 - 50lbs. May be exposed to chemicals, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.

The pay range for this role is $39.90 - $54.15 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Retirement Savings
• Long-term and Short-term Disability
• Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Certification and Education Support

UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as “High Performing” in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children’s is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.