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Clinical Nurse II - Medical Surgical

County of Santa Clara

Job Description

The County of Santa Clara is hiring a Clinical Nurse II for Medical Surgical units throughout Santa Clara County. In this role, you will apply theoretical nursing concepts while providing routine direct patient care within established policies and procedures.

You will work under supervision in controlled patient care situations, performing specific patient care assignments.

This position is ideal for registered nurses with at least one year of recent RN experience in a nursing specialty who are ready to advance from an entry-level role.

Posted On Friday 17th July 2026
Organization County of Santa Clara
Location San Jose
Job Type Full-time
Address 70 W. Hedding Street, San Jose, CA 95110
Last Date Thursday 30th July 2026
Salary $166,914 - $202,883 per year
Qualification

To qualify for Clinical Nurse II

  • Medical Surgical, you must be a registered nurse (RN) with at least one year of recent RN experience in a nursing specialty. This role is not entry-level; it requires proven clinical experience beyond the Clinical Nurse I level.
  • Possession of a valid Registered Nurse (RN) license issued by the California Board of Registered Nursing.
  • At least one year of recent RN experience in a nursing specialty (e.g., medical-surgical nursing).
  • Knowledge of nursing theories, principles, and practices applicable to medical-surgical patient care.
  • Ability to apply theoretical concepts in controlled patient care situations following established policies and procedures.
  • Ability to work under supervision and perform specific patient care assignments.
  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association (may be required).
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred but not required.
  • Experience in an acute care hospital setting preferred.
Role Responsibilities

Provide routine direct patient care in medical-surgical units under supervision.

  • Apply theoretical concepts of nursing within established policies and procedures.
  • Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care for assigned patients.
  • Administer medications and treatments as ordered by physicians.
  • Monitor patient vital signs and report changes to the healthcare team.
  • Document patient care accurately and timely in electronic health records.
  • Educate patients and families about health conditions and discharge plans.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to ensure quality care.
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment following infection control protocols.
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives and unit-based activities.
Conditions & Requirements

Valid California RN license required.

  • At least one year of recent RN experience in a nursing specialty.
  • BLS certification from AHA required (or obtain within 30 days of hire).
  • Must be able to work full-time schedule including weekends and holidays as needed.
  • Successful completion of background check and drug screening.
  • Compliance with County of Santa Clara vaccination policies (including COVID-19).
Benefits

Competitive salary range of $166,914

  • $202,883 per year.
  • Complete medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
  • CalPERS retirement pension plan.
  • Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • Deferred compensation plans (457(b)).
  • Employer-paid life insurance and long-term disability.
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education opportunities.
  • Employee assistance program (EAP).
Additional Information

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies throughout Santa Clara County.

  • The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used for future Clinical Nurse II openings.
  • Applicants with foreign nursing degrees must have their credentials evaluated by a recognized agency.
  • The County of Santa Clara is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  • Accommodations for disabilities are available upon request during the application process.
  • Veterans preference points may apply; submit DD-214 with application.
  • For questions about this position, contact the County of Santa Clara Human Resources Department.
  • This position is not eligible for remote work; it is an onsite role at county medical facilities.
About Company

The County of Santa Clara is the largest county in the San Francisco Bay Area, serving over 1.9 million residents. It operates a complete healthcare system including Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, several clinics, and public health services. The County is committed to providing high-quality, equitable care to all residents. This Clinical Nurse II role is part of the County's medical-surgical nursing team, delivering direct patient care in hospital and clinic settings. Working for Santa Clara County offers stability, competitive public sector benefits, and the opportunity to serve a diverse community.

FAQs
What is the difference between Clinical Nurse I, II, and III at Santa Clara County?

Clinical Nurse I is an entry-level RN position for those with no or limited experience. Clinical Nurse II requires at least one year of recent RN experience in a nursing specialty and works under supervision. Clinical Nurse III has the knowledge and abilities to assume charge nurse responsibilities.

Is a BSN required for the Clinical Nurse II position?

A BSN is preferred but not required. Candidates with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and a valid California RN license who meet the experience requirement are eligible to apply.

What type of nursing experience is considered 'recent' for this role?

Recent experience typically means within the last three years. The experience must be as a registered nurse in a nursing specialty, such as medical-surgical nursing, in an acute care setting.

Will I be required to work weekends or holidays?

Yes, this full-time position may require working weekends, holidays, and rotating shifts depending on the needs of the medical-surgical unit.

How long does the hiring process usually take?

The process can take several weeks to a few months. After the application deadline, applications are reviewed, exams may be scheduled, and interviews are conducted from the eligible list. The timeline varies based on the number of applicants and departmental needs.

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