Job Description

Join Our Leadership Team!

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Nurse and Prototype Lead to lead the development and execution of our facility's infection control program. In this role, you will be responsible for strategic direction, daily management, education, and continuous improvement of infection prevention efforts. You will also play a vital role in planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating initiatives to ensure the program is effective, efficient, and aligned with best practices in healthcare safety.

Job Title:

Infection Prevention and Control Nurse and Prototype Lead

Location:

Cove Guest Home - Sydney, Nova Scotia

Position Type:

Full-Time Permanent

Reports to:

Director of Care

About Cove Guest Home

Located in the heart of Sydney, the Cove Guest Home is a fully accredited, 110-bed long-term care facility that has been a trusted name in compassionate care for over 80 years. Known throughout the community as a leader in resident-centered services, we take pride in our collaborative team culture and warm, supportive environment.

Your Role

As the Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Nurse and Prototype Lead, you'll play a pivotal role in safeguarding the health of residents, staff, and visitors by leading the development, implementation, and evaluation of the facility's infection control program. You'll collaborate closely with leadership to ensure policies and procedures reflect the latest evidence-based practices and regulatory standards.

In this dynamic role, you'll oversee surveillance systems to detect and prevent the spread of infections, coordinate outbreak investigations, and liaise with Public Health and regional IPAC teams. Your expertise will guide staff through infection control protocols, including isolation procedures, visitor restrictions, and unit closures when necessary. You'll lead Initiatives coordinated by Seniors Long Term Care focused on increasing timely access to care for residents. Some examples include but are not limited to increasing CCA scope of practice including administration of treatments, introducing IV therapy to LTC, and introducing RN-AP's to LTC.

You'll also provide ongoing education, training and consultation to staff, residents, and volunteers, conduct audits such as hand hygiene assessments, and monitor antibiotic usage to promote safe and effective care. As a member of the Quality & Risk Management Committee, you'll contribute valuable insights and reporting to support continuous improvement in infection prevention.

What You Bring to the Table

To be successful in this role, candidates must be graduates of a recognized School of Nursing, with a BScN Degree considered a strong asset. Current registration in good standing with the NovaScotia College of Nurses is required, along with certification in "C" Level CPR/First Aid and completion of the Education Program for Immunization Competencies (EPIC) or an equivalent immunization course.

We're looking for someone with proven leadership and supervisory experience, ideally with a background in Infection Prevention and Control. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of infection control regulations and guidelines, microbiology, epidemiology, sterilization and decontamination practices, and environmental health services. Familiarity with provincial and national standards, evidence-based nursing practices, and health promotion strategies is essential.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills are a must, along with the ability to think critically, solve problems, and make sound decisions under pressure. Candidates should be comfortable working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, with the ability to plan, organize, and prioritize effectively. Proficiency in computer software and data analysis is also required.

Additionally, the role demands the ability to interpret laboratory and diagnostic tests, identify infectious disease processes--including modes of transmission and periods of communicability--and respond appropriately. The successful candidate will foster positive working relationships and contribute meaningfully to the overall health and safety of the facility.

Working Conditions

Ability to sit for extended periods. Ability to stand and walk intermittently. Ability to occasionally reach, bend or twist. Fine motor skills, visual acuity, and auditory processing.

Employment Conditions:

A recent and clear Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check is required. A functional assessment to confirm the ability to meet the physical aspects of the role.

Why Join Us?

Competitive annual salary of $97,482 and 3 weeks of paid vacation time. Life, medical, dental, and vision benefits. Nova Scotia Health Employees' Pension Plan. Priority placement at a brand new on-site childcare facility. Option to participate in our Gas/Heating Oil Program with SYDCO Fuels. Access to our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), offering confidential support for mental health, stress management, and personal challenges that's available 24/7 at zero cost. Meaningful work in a resident-focused care environment. Supportive leadership and collaborative team culture. Opportunities for professional development. A chance to make a real difference in the lives of others.

How to Apply

Qualified applicants are invited to submit their resume, cover letter, and completed Application for Employment Form (found at coveguesthome.com/careers) to Human Resources Manager, Jessica MacDonald at jessica@coveguesthome.com before

4:00 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025

. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, we will only contact those selected for further consideration.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $97,482.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance On-site childcare Paid time off Vision care
Work Location: In person