Nurse Practitioner with Full Practice Authority - Contract position

Position Summary The Nurse Practitioner (Full Practice Authority) serves as the primary and independent medical provider for PADS Lake County clients, delivering comprehensive advanced practice nursing care without physician supervision, collaboration, or oversight by a medical director. This is a new position. PADS is interested in hiring someone to work with PADS leadership to establish the program and create the policies/procedures for its operation while also providing critical nursing functions as needed. Anticipated approximately 15 hours/week. Schedule is flexible for first shift (9-5, Mon. - Fri.) hours only. Work will be on-site in Waukegan. Operating under the Illinois Nurse Practice Act (225 ILCS 65) this role exercises full practice authority, including independent evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and prescribing. The Nurse Practitioner provides trauma-informed, client-centered care to individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability, guided by PADS Lake County's core principles of Housing First, Harm Reduction, and Client-Centered Care. This position demands strong clinical judgment, a high level of autonomy, and a deep commitment to serving vulnerable and underserved populations. Who We Are PADS Lake County is a community-based organization that provides trauma-informed support, resources, and shelter to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and a housing crisis. We help individuals and families reach their full potential by providing a comprehensive approach to reducing homelessness. Our holistic services seek to help our neighbors create sturdy foundations in stable homes so that they can build brighter futures for themselves and contribute to our community. Essential Duties & Responsibilities 1. Clinical Care & Medical Services

• Conduct comprehensive medical assessments, including patient histories, physical examinations, and diagnostic evaluations.
• Independently diagnose and manage acute and chronic health conditions.
• Develop, implement, and oversee individualized treatment plans.
• Prescribe medications and therapeutic interventions, including controlled substances, in accordance with Illinois law.
• Order, interpret, and evaluate laboratory tests and diagnostic studies.
• Provide ongoing medication management and continuity of care through follow-up services.
• Deliver preventive care, health education, and risk-reduction counseling.
• Address co-occurring physical health, mental health, and substance use conditions through an integrated, whole-person care approach. 2. Independent Practice Authority
• Practice autonomously under Full Practice Authority as defined by the Illinois Nurse Practice Act.
• Establish and maintain effective clinical workflows, protocols, and standards in collaboration with organizational leadership.
• Exercise independent clinical judgment and decision-making without physician oversight or collaborative agreement.
• Identify gaps in services and recommend clinical and programmatic improvements to enhance care delivery. 3. Integrated & Trauma-Informed Care
• Provide care grounded in trauma-informed, harm-reduction, and culturally responsive practices.
• Collaborate with case managers, behavioral health providers, and external healthcare partners to ensure continuity and coordination of care.
• Support clients in navigating healthcare systems and accessing specialty and community-based services.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries while delivering compassionate, client-centered care. 4. Documentation & Regulatory Compliance
• Maintain accurate, timely, and thorough medical documentation within agency electronic systems.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA, the Illinois Nurse Practice Act, and all applicable state and federal regulations.
• Participate in quality assurance initiatives, audits, and required reporting activities.
• Maintain current licensure, certifications, and continuing education requirements. 5. Collaboration & Organizational Engagement
• Participate actively in interdisciplinary team meetings and case conferences.
• Provide clinical consultation and guidance to PADS staff within scope of practice.
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
• Uphold and promote PADS Lake County's mission, values, and commitment to equity, inclusion, and client-centered care. Required Qualifications
• Active Illinois Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license.
• Full Practice Authority in accordance with the Illinois Nurse Practice Act.
• National Nurse Practitioner certification (Family Nurse Practitioner [FNP] or equivalent).
• Minimum of 2-5 years of relevant clinical experience. Conditions of Employment
• Valid Illinois driver's license with the ability to travel between program sites. Demonstrated ability to independently evaluate, diagnose, treat, and prescribe.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Strong clinical judgment with the ability to function autonomously.
• Successful completion of a background check.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Enter into an independent contractor agreement with PADS Lake County Preferred Qualifications & Experience
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English.
• Experience serving vulnerable, underserved, or homeless populations strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and standard office technology.
• Completion of a medical assisting program.
• Three (3) years of medical assistant experience. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Knowledge of the healthcare field and relevant clinical specialty.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively engage with diverse populations, demonstrating cultural humility and sensitivity.
• Knowledge of clinical support tasks relevant to the specialty area.
• Ability to communicate complex medical information clearly to patients and families.
• Strong clinical and technical skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Demonstrated professionalism, tact, and diplomacy in interpersonal interactions.
• Ability to assess patient education needs and provide clear, effective instruction.
• Ability to maintain a professional and approachable demeanor.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to plan, prioritize, and complete tasks efficiently.
• Demonstrated compassion, empathy, and commitment to patient-centered care.

EOE, Including Disability/Vets PADS Lake County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

Pay:

$100.00 per hour

Benefits:

Flexible schedule People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply Application Question(s): Do you have full practice authority? Ability to

Commute:

Waukegan, IL 60085 (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person