Are you a highly experienced veterinary nurse ready to step into a leadership role — or already thriving in one?
We’re seeking a dedicated Head Nurse to join our warm, collaborative team at Sydney Animal Hospitals – Norwest.
About the Role
As Head Nurse, you’ll work closely with our veterinarians, nursing team and the practice manager to deliver gold-standard care to patients and outstanding service to our clients. You'll play a key leadership role in mentoring junior nurses, maintaining clinical standards, and supporting the day-to-day running of a busy hospital.
This is a full-time role (40 hours/week)
We’re seeking someone with the following skills and qualities:
Experience & Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of veterinary nursing experience
- Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing or equivalent
- Prior leadership experience preferred
Leadership & Team Support
- Able to guide, mentor, and support junior nursing staff
- Comfortable leading shifts and maintaining workflow during busy periods
- Positive, proactive team player who promotes collaboration, open communication, and a supportive workplace culture.
- Self-motivated with the initiative to work independently, prioritise tasks effectively, and make sound clinical decisions.
- Skilled in stock ordering, inventory management, and maintaining adequate clinical supplies.
- Experienced in staff rostering and optimising staffing levels to ensure efficient and high-quality patient care.
- Committed to continuous quality improvement, patient safety, and delivering excellent clinical outcomes.
Clinical Competence
- High level of practical nursing skills to include blood sampling, IVC placement, intubation, taking radiographs
- Strong knowledge in routine and complex anaesthesia, surgical nursing, and patient monitoring
- Proficient in using IDEXX diagnostic machines and radiology equipment
- Strong understanding of veterinary best practices and clinical protocols and
- Demonstrate excellent attention to detail and clinical standards
- Able to adapt and multitask efficiently in a fast-paced hospital environment
Key Attributes
- Genuine dedication to animal welfare and standards
- Strong multitasker who thrives in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent verbal and written communication
- Compassionate, empathetic, and calm under pressure
- Vibrant personality that builds team morale and client rapport
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to clinical standards
- Reliable and committed to shift coverage and consistency
- Strong passion to the profession and mentoring staff
Why Join Us?
A genuinely supportive and friendly team environment
- Opportunities for ongoing development and career growth
- A modern, well-equipped hospital
- A focus on patient care, staff wellbeing, and clinical excellence
- Approachable and friendly management
- Access to a free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support your mental health
- Generous staff discount, gym membership discount and more