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Cnl Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cnl information

See Virginia salary details

$44.1K

$128.6K

$176K

How much do cnl jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for cnl in Virginia is $128,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,500.00 and $136,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a job at a nuclear power plant?

Getting a job as a CNL at a nuclear power plant can be competitive and requires relevant education, such as a degree in engineering, nuclear technology, or related fields. Candidates typically need to pass background checks, obtain security clearances, and complete specialized training or certifications like NRC licensing or plant operator training. Experience in the energy sector and strong technical skills are also important factors in the hiring process.

What qualifications are needed for CNL jobs?

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) jobs typically require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, a valid registered nurse (RN) license, and relevant clinical experience. Many employers also prefer candidates with a master's degree in nursing or a related field and certification as a CNL from a recognized organization.

What is a CNL job?

A Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) is a highly skilled registered nurse who focuses on improving patient care outcomes across various healthcare settings. They integrate evidence-based practices, coordinate care teams, and ensure high-quality patient care. CNLs are not direct care providers but act as leaders, educators, and advocates to enhance clinical outcomes and patient safety. This role typically requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and CNL certification.

Is CNL a good place to work?

CNL, as a job title, typically refers to a Certified Nurse Leader or similar healthcare role, and the work environment depends on the specific organization. Generally, such roles require strong leadership skills and clinical knowledge, with job satisfaction influenced by workplace culture, management, and workload. Researching the specific employer can provide more insight into the work environment and employee experiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cnl position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), you need a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with CNL certification and a solid grounding in evidence-based clinical practice and care coordination. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, patient safety protocols, and quality improvement tools is crucial. Standout soft skills include leadership, effective communication, and a proactive approach to interdisciplinary teamwork. These competencies are vital because CNLs play a central role in optimizing care delivery, driving patient outcomes, and leading healthcare teams across complex clinical settings.

What does CNL do?

A CNL (Clinical Nurse Leader) is a registered nurse who coordinates and oversees patient care in healthcare settings. They focus on improving quality, safety, and efficiency by managing care teams, implementing evidence-based practices, and ensuring compliance with healthcare standards. CNLs often work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)?

As a Clinical Nurse Leader, you can expect to oversee and coordinate patient care activities, promote evidence-based practices, and lead quality improvement initiatives on your designated unit. CNLs routinely collaborate with physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals to ensure that patient care plans are cohesive and up-to-date. Additional daily tasks may include analyzing data on patient outcomes and safety, mentoring staff, and addressing any care delivery challenges that arise. This dynamic role allows you to directly impact patient experiences while shaping the culture and effectiveness of your healthcare team.

Infographic showing various Cnl job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,604 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

Registered Nurse (RN) - Clinical Nurse Leader - Perioperative Services

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA โ€ข On-site

$89K - $143K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Nurses at UVA Health conduct evidence-based practice within a structure that allows point-of-care clinicians to drive questions and solutions, with support from the larger structure of science, quality improvement and evidence-based practice. As a member of the Unit-Based Leadership (UBL) team, the clinical nurse leader (CNL) is responsible for supporting nursing professional practice through professional development, evidence-based practice, and unit-based quality improvement for one or more microsystem. The CNL trains, coaches and supports nurses and members of the interdisciplinary team to elevate professional practice in a manner consistent with organizational (UVA Health) standards, workflows, processes and strategic outcomes. Practice is aligned with AACN CNL competencies, with the following focus areas:
*Professional Development: The CNL continually develops, implements, and evaluates clinical processes and programs that engage nurses in lifelong learning to maintain competencies and learn new skills.
*Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): The CNL provides ongoing assessment, evaluation and prioritization of unit-based triggers that would benefit from an evidence-based approach to problem solving and practice change. They use the UVA Health EBP process to identify, evaluate and implement evidence-based solutions in collaboration with the UBL, unit nurses, and other stakeholders.
*Unit-based Quality improvement (QI): The CNL works collaboratively with the UBL to proactively and reactively address quality and safety concerns on the unit.

Professional Development for Microsystem-Based Nursing and Nursing Support Staff:

  • Continually monitors new hires to evaluate progress toward competency goals, sharing this information with UBLs, collaborating with UBL on progress

  • Coaches and mentors nurses in ongoing clinical learning, continuing education, and national certifications.

  • Contributes to development of competencies with Central Nursing Professional Development

  • Teaches in general orientation in area of practice expertise, as appropriate to UVA Health needs

EBP at Microsystem and Organizational Levels:

  • Maintains knowledge of high priority microsystem strategic outcomes, desired benchmarks, practice patterns, and the interdisciplinary team

  • Coaches and mentors microsystem and organizational shared governance team members in all phases of the EBP process

  • Directs Clin 1s to NRP projects that reflect unit strategic goals

  • Mentors Clin 1s in EBP projects

  • Leads or coaches others in leading a regular nursing research journal club

  • Ensures that clinical improvements are correctly categorized (typically as EBP, QI, or Research), and that processes for each are followed in accordance with standards and policies of UVA Health

QI:

  • Knowledgeable of quality improvement methods

  • Provides direction to UBL regarding delineation of quality improvement, performance improvement, evidence-based practice and research.

  • Assists UBL with identification of root causes and implementation of evidence-based and education-related solutions

  • Assists performance improvement efforts in collaboration with performance improvement coaches and UBL when evidence-based practices and resources are appropriate

General:

  • In collaboration with UBL, responsible for delivery of high quality, safe patient care

  • Regular participant in UVA Nursing Professional Governance at the microsystem and organizational level

  • Seeks regular feedback from nurses, UBL and other clinical collaborators

  • Other Duties as assigned

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Master's or doctoral degree in Nursing

Experience: 2 years of experience as a registered nurse working in a relevant practice area.

Licensure: VA nursing license, CNL certification.

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 $89,523.20 - $143,228.80 annually. 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

  • Paid Time Off, Long-term and Short-term Disability, Retirement Savings

  • Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Certification and education support

  • Generous Paid Time Off

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.