Job Description: Registered Nurse – NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) & PICU (Paediatric Intensive Care Unit), OT, ICU/CCU/ED, ER

Location: Australia / New Zealand (Hospitals, Day Surgery Units, Private Clinics)

Work Setting: Public Hospitals, Private Hospitals, and Aged Care Facilities

Required Qualifications & Skills:

• Registered Nurse (RN) license in Australia (AHPRA) or New Zealand (NCNZ).
• Minimum of 1–2 years of NICU or neonatal care experience (some roles accept general paediatric or maternity experience).
• Postgraduate qualification in neonatal nursing (preferred but not always required).
• Current BLS/ALS/NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation Program) certification.
• Strong communication, empathy, and critical-thinking skills.
• Ability to work in rotating shifts, including nights and weekends.

Salary Range

Australia (AUD):

• Base Salary: AUD 70,000 – 105,000 per year
• Hourly Rate: AUD 35 – 50/hour (depending on experience and location)
• Overtime/Shift Penalties: Additional allowances for nights, weekends, and holidays

New Zealand (NZD):

• Base Salary: NZD 65,000 – 95,000 per year
• Hourly Rate: NZD 32 – 45/hour
• Public Sector Nurses: Salaries are structured under collective agreements (e.g., DHBs)

Senior NICU nurses, nurse educators, or nurse unit managers can earn significantly more.

Benefits

Common Benefits in Both Countries:

• Relocation assistance (for overseas nurses): airfare, initial accommodation, visa sponsorship
• Professional development and paid study leave
• Paid annual leave: 4–5 weeks
• Sick leave and parental leave entitlements
• Superannuation/pension contributions (Australia: typically 11%)
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) for mental health support
• Health insurance subsidies (in some private hospitals)
• Flexible working arrangements and job-sharing options
• Pathways to permanent residency for qualified international nurses