Job Shadowing

Please note: This program has been suspended due to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). You are invited to submit your request once the program reopens, please monitor this page for updates.
NSHA is dedicated to maintaining the safety, health, and wellness of staff and patients.  We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

(En français)
At Nova Scotia Health Authority we offer job shadowing to students that are interested in learning about careers in health care. Job shadowing is observation only. Participants typically observe an employee throughout their daily activities. 

Due to the nature of our industry, not all positions offer job shadowing. Below is a list of positions eligible for job shadowing.

  • Anesthesia Assistants
  • Anesthesia Technicians
  • Biomedical Technologist
  • Cardiology Tech
  • Cardiovascular Perfusionist
  • Controls Technician - Environmental Services
  • Developmental Worker
  • ECG Technician
  • Echocardiography Sonographer
  • Electroneurophysiology tech
  • Laboratory Technologist
  • Neuropsychologist
  • Orthotist/Prosthetist
  • Pharmacy
  • Physicist
  • Power Engineer
  • Radiation Oncology Dosimetrist
  • Radiopharmacy Scientist
  • Respiratory Therapist
  • Social Worker - Masters Prepared
  • Ultrasonographer

Physician job shadowing is not supported through this process.

Location, hours and contact information

Job shadowing is currently only available in the HRM area and West Hants.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying to job shadow one of our employees, you must submit an online application no later than four weeks prior to the requested date of the job shadowing.

Before job shadowing, you must provide:

  • Immunization record
  • Signed copy of Pledge of Confidentiality
  • Parent/guardian’s consent if the applicant is under 18 years of age

Please note:

  • Staff does not need to submit the online application, please contact the manager directly to submit your request to job shadow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a job shadowing?
Job shadowing is when a participant follows and observes an employee to get a great understanding about a particular position. These are typically just for one day and is associated learning objects through school/ 

Who can job shadow?
There are specific guidelines in place to determine if you are eligible to job shadow. Generally, those who fall into the following two categories are considered eligible.

  • You are currently enrolled or planning to enroll in an academic program that requires the completion of job shadow experience; or
  • You are looking for a career change.

What are the requirements prior to participating in a job shadowing experience?
The requirements for applicant are as follows:

You must submit an online application no later than four weeks prior to the requested date of the job shadowing.

Before job shadowing, you must provide:

  • Immunization record
  • Signed copy of Pledge of Confidentiality
  • Parent/guardian’s consent if the applicant is under 18 years of age

All documents listed above must be submitted at least four weeks prior to the requested date of job shadowing.

I have completed all of the requirements for participating in a job shadowing experience. Where do I send my completed application and documents?
Applications are to be completed online.

Documents (immunization records and pledge of confidentiality) may be faxed or delivered in person.

Do I need my parent/guardian’s consent?
If you are under the age of 18, your parent/guardian’s consent is required for you to participate in a job shadowing.

How long does a Job Shadowing last?
Job shadowing is usually for one day. A typical day is between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. We recommend that you bring a lunch, snacks and water. 

What is the difference between a job shadowing experience and a student/learner placement?
Job shadowing is completely hands-off, involves observation only and typically lasts for one day. The main purpose of a job shadowing is to make an informed decision regarding career selection. 

A Student/Learner Placement can be a paid or unpaid, clinical or non-clinical placement for post-secondary students (except medical students) in facilities throughout Nova Scotia Health Authority. These placements typically last for many weeks at a time and give post-secondary students hands-on experience in their field of study.

How do I request to job shadowing?
Please view the How to Apply section of the website.

Am I required to submit a criminal record check if I am going to job shadow?
No, you are not required to submit a criminal record check to participate in job shadowing.

Is the job shadowing applicant able to provide any direct services to clients or patients?
No, job shadow applicants will have absolutely no direct contact with patients or clients. They are not authorized to provide medical advice of any kind. Those who violate any of these terms will be immediately dismissed.

What should I expect during job shadowing?
During a typical job shadowing, a participant will gain knowledge of the everyday duties and functions of a particular employee and unit within Nova Scotia Health Authority. You may be required to stand/walk for long periods of time so dress both comfortably and professionally. Comfortable shoes are recommended, but ensure they are clean and appropriate.

Can I job shadow any person or area within Nova Scotia Health Authority?
Due to the nature of our industry, not all positions offer job shadowing. Please view the list of eligible positions for job shadowing.

Requests will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. However, your application should indicate the rationale behind your request in a specific area.  

Contact Information:
Tel: 902-473-5757 Opt 4
human.resources@cdha.nshealth.ca

Contact

Tel: 902-473-5757 Opt 4
human.resources@cdha.nshealth.ca