Professional Development Specialist

• DESCRIPTION OF POSITION

• The Professional Development Specialist supports high-quality patient care by providing clinical expertise, education, and competency validation for clinical staff across assigned departments and specialties. This role serves as a clinical resource, mentor, and educator, ensuring healthcare professionals are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to deliver safe, evidence-based, and fully compliant care.

The Professional Development Specialist collaborates closely with the Director of Organizational Development, Clinical Leadership, and the broader education team to ensure all learning initiatives align with organizational standards, regulatory requirements, and system-wide strategies. This role operates within a fluid, collaborative team model. While focusing on clinical education, skills verification, and department-level development, the Professional Development Specialist actively partners with all team instructors to co-facilitate non-clinical, organizational, and community education initiatives based on organizational needs.

• QUALIFICATIONS

• Professional/Educational

• Current Illinois licensure or certification in a clinical discipline (e.g., Registered Nurse, Respiratory Therapist, Physical/Occupational Therapist, Radiologic Technologist, or related healthcare field).

• Master’s degree in Education, Healthcare Administration, Nursing, or a related field preferred.

• Demonstrated knowledge of adult learning principles, instructional design, and evidence-based education practices applicable to both clinical and non-clinical staff.

• Minimum 3–5 years of clinical experience in a healthcare setting required; experience in acute care or multi-specialty areas preferred.

• American Heart Association BLS required; ACLS, PALS, and/or NRP preferred if applicable.

• AHA Instructor certification preferred or willingness to obtain.

• DCFS Mandated Reporter Certificate of Completion required.

• Experience in clinical education, precepting, or staff development strongly preferred.

• Personal

• Works effectively with others, demonstrating adaptability, tact, discretion, and diplomacy in a matrixed team environment.

• Strong teaching, coaching, and universal communication skills.

• Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and adapt to changing clinical and organizational needs.

• Demonstrates leadership, professionalism, and commitment to high-quality patient care and workplace development.

Actual pay will be determined by qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers offers a comprehensive benefit package including:

• Medical, dental, vision plans

• Paid time off

• Retirement plan, including immediate 100% vesting

• Life insurance

• Disability coverage

• Nurse residency program

• Wellness program

• Health club / gym membership reimbursement

• Reward & Recognition programs

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Employee Assistance Program

Morris Hospital Employee Benefits (https://www.morrishospital.org/careers/employee-benefits/#medical--dental--vision-and-flexible-spending-account)