Job Description

We are recruiting qualified RNs and LPNs to serve as CNA Instructors. This position offers exceptional flexibility. Choose what works for you. participate in one or multiple instructional components: Responsibilities may include:

• Leading 6-hour skills lab days
• Supervising 12-hour clinical shifts
• Proctoring testing sessions ( 3–6 hours)

Instructors may choose to support one area or engage in all aspects of the program. This is an excellent opportunity for a nurse who enjoys teaching, mentoring, and supporting workforce development while maintaining schedule flexibility. Whether you’re looking to step into education part-time, stay connected to the profession, or give back by mentoring future caregivers, we would love to talk with you. Join us in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The CNA Clinical Instructor bridges nursing theory and hands-on practice by directly supervising and teaching nursing assistant students in classroom skills labs and clinical settings, including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), and assisted living environments. The Instructor provides comprehensive skills training, assigns and oversees patient care experiences, evaluates student performance, and ensures a safe and supportive learning environment.

This role fosters critical thinking, professional communication, and clinical competence while coordinating closely with clinical site staff and program leadership to ensure students meet state certification requirements. The Instructor mentors students, delivers constructive feedback, and manages student groups to support high-quality patient care and positive patient outcomes.

Skills labs are located at Bitterroot College in Hamilton, MT as well as some local high schools in Missoula and Ravalli County, examples could include locations like Big Sky and Stevensville High School, Missoula College, and other local skilled nursing facilities. Clinical Locations include, but are not limited to:

Hamilton

• Valley Health and Rehab
• Bitterroot Health (Hospital)

Stevensville

• Living Centre

Missoula

• St. Patricks (Hospital)
• Community Medical Center (Hospital)
• Village Health and Rehab
• Riverside Health and Rehab

Key Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on instruction in essential CNA skills such as bathing, feeding, mobility assistance, and vital signs (Comprehensive checklist provided)
• Supervise and guide students during clinical training in labs and at approved clinical sites
• Ensure patient safety, adherence to policies, and professional standards of care Assess student learning through skills check-offs and clinical performance evaluations
• Document progress and provide timely, constructive feedback
• Maintain accurate student records
• Prepare students for successful completion of the state CNA certification exam, including registering students into the testing portal
• Nurse aid training program instructors are required to file paperwork with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
• Completed a course in teaching adults or have experience in teaching adults or supervising aides

Qualifications

• Nurse aid training program instructors are required to file paperwork with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
• Completed a course in teaching adults or have experience in teaching adults or supervising aides
• Must hold an active unencumbered RN or LPN license with a minimum of 2 years of nursing experience; at least one year must be in the provision of long term care service

Application Instructions

Applications must be submitted through the University of Montana Jobs website. Position is open until filled, and applications will be reviewed as they are submitted. Applicants must submit all application materials to be considered for the position.

Complete applications include:

• Cover letter addressing the qualifications, including a brief statement of research and teaching interests
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Names and contact information for three (3) professional references

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

University of Montana (UM) is an equal opportunity employer. UM does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non-discrimination policy and any applicable law.

Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request.

Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.

References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). The University of Montana will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring. Due to the September 19, 2025 Presidential Proclamation and related guidance from USCIS and the Department of State, the University may be limited in its ability to offer H-1B sponsorship. At this time, we are unable to sponsor new H-1B visas that require payment of the additional fee introduced by the Proclamation.