The BC Nurses’ Union (BCNU) is a strong, dynamic voice for nurses and nursing in British Columbia, representing more than 50,000 members. BCNU provides collective agreement negotiation and support to its members, as well as professional and advocacy services in the field of research, clinical practice, leadership and education. As the voice of the nursing profession in the province, we advocate for nurses and patients to ensure safe, quality, public health care for all.
Job Title:
Professional Practice Officer
Posting #:
USW-039-25
Bargaining Unit:
USW 2009
Pay Grade:
5 ( $104,548.80 annually)
Position Overview
This is a generalist position with the Professional Practice and Advocacy department. The Professional Practice Officer is responsible for a diverse portfolio, working in collaboration with all areas of the department, including PRP, LEAP, Research/Health Policy, Education, Student Practice and HRE. This includes day-to-day maintenance of collective agreement provisions, researching and analyzing information, providing recommendations, facilitating learning opportunities, and advancing related strategy and initiatives across the province. This work will include nursing students and members.
Key Responsibilities
Provides support, advice, and advocates on behalf of members in matters relating to professional practice including, but not limited to:
Addressing nursing practice issues, patient/client/resident and nurse safety, and workload issues and some day-to-day maintenance of collective agreement provisions, using a professional responsibility strategy for assigned bargaining unit(s) located throughout BC.
Providing education support to staff, stewards, and members in professional practice matters.
Providing consultative and advisory advocacy for Union members with professional practice issues; liaises and coordinates activities with other bodies such as nursing colleges (e.g. BCCNM). Advocates for fair and due process for members with professional practice concerns.
Working collaboratively with a range of different parties to: develop strategy, envision and manage required shifts in organizational culture, build membership and leadership support for this area of the union’s work, and realize a wide variety of initiatives.
Acting as a source of advice and input for the union around issues of diversity, equity and inclusion’ advocates for diverse, equal and inclusive workplaces.
Advising on the design of curriculum related to professional practice; may instruct and/or participate in the instruction of courses; assists in the evaluation of the effectiveness of programs and instructors and provides advice on professional practice education to management, colleagues, students and members.
Communicating both internally and to external organizations regarding relevant and topical professional responsibility issues.
Acting as a resource person to the Union’s Council as required.
Supports nursing students and ESNs transitioning to practice (e.g., bursaries, coaching).
Project work as directed.
Provides work direction to assigned administrative staff.
Participates in the efficient and cooperative use of resources and personnel.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
More detailed information on responsibilities can be found in the job descriptions related to each position in the department.
Qualifications
The successful applicant must have:
College or university education in an approved Nursing Program. A master’s degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and related experience preferred.
Demonstrated ability to explain professional practice issues to members and others.
Demonstrated ability and experience dealing with professional practice issues, collective agreement administration, and nursing license matters.
A thorough understanding of the complexities facing nurses and student nurses across BC.
Extensive and progressive experience (3 - 5 years) as an active BCNU representative or member would be an asset.
Demonstrated ability to build relationships and work with teams. Demonstrated experience of organizing membership campaigns and/or public rallies, and/or group grievances and/or media events and demonstrated understanding of and ability to utilize and implement the organizing model and/or equivalent experience.
Demonstrated ability to research nursing policy and nursing research studies and summarize findings.
Demonstrated ability to understand the collective agreement language related to professional responsibility issues and argue a strong case for the redress of problems.
Excellent verbal and interpersonal skills, strong facilitation and presentation abilities and skill in communicating contrary positions with respect and awareness at all levels of the union and with external parties.
Strong writing skills, understanding of clear language and experience producing written materials (policy papers, outreach materials, articles, proposals, etc.).
Demonstrated and proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
A thorough understanding of and commitment to trade union philosophy.
Willingness to travel throughout the province and carry a valid driver's license.
Why work at BCNU?
BCNU speaks up and speaks out for safe, quality, public health care. We pride ourselves in providing protection, representation, and services to all members and in supporting our employees. Our organizational values are rooted in respect, integrity, and collaboration, guiding us in building a workplace culture where everyone feels they can bring their authentic selves to work. We recognize and prioritize cultural and psychological health and safety. As part of our dedication to equity and justice, we honour the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action and are actively engaged in advancing Indigenous-focused initiatives.
We offer an inclusive workplace with a comprehensive range of benefits and resources to promote well-being, career growth and work-life balance. This includes but is not limited to:
Competitive compensation and extended health and dental benefits package
Municipal Pension Plan
4 weeks vacation entitlement to start
Hybrid work environment
Education and professional development opportunities
If you are seeking an opportunity to join a passionate and committed team, we’d like to hear from you!
Please also reach out to us at hr@bcnu.org to let us know of any accommodations you require through our application and selection process.
