Director of Nursing (DON)

Job Description

Job Description

Salary: $130,000 – $170,000 annually (based on experience, credentials, and demonstrated leadership success)
Position Type- DON position -Full-Time
Location - Elizabeth Area

Lead Excellence in Resident Care

Seeking an accomplished, compassionate, and results-driven Director of Nursing (DON) to provide strategic and clinical leadership for our nursing department. This is a key executive leadership position responsible for ensuring the highest standards of resident care, regulatory compliance, staff development, and operational excellence.

The ideal candidate is an experienced nursing leader who thrives in a collaborative environment, possesses strong clinical expertise, and has a proven track record of building high-performing teams while maintaining exceptional quality outcomes.

Position Summary

The Director of Nursing is responsible for the overall administration, coordination, and management of nursing services throughout the facility. The DON will oversee clinical operations, supervise nursing personnel, ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations, and promote a culture of excellence, accountability, and resident-centered care.

Key Responsibilities

Responsible as such, but not limited to.

Clinical Leadership & Quality Care

• Direct and oversee all nursing operations and clinical services.

• Ensure the delivery of high-quality, compassionate, and evidence-based resident care.

• Monitor clinical outcomes and implement quality improvement initiatives.

• Lead infection prevention, risk management, and resident safety programs.

• Review and evaluate resident care plans to ensure individualized care needs are met.

Regulatory Compliance

• Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local healthcare regulations.

• Prepare for and participate in state surveys, audits, and inspections.

• Develop and implement policies and procedures consistent with regulatory standards.

• Monitor documentation practices and ensure accurate clinical records.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, hire, train, mentor, and retain nursing staff.

• Foster a positive workplace culture focused on teamwork, accountability, and professional growth.

• Conduct performance evaluations and implement corrective action plans when necessary.

• Provide coaching and leadership development for nursing supervisors and managers.

• Ensure adequate staffing levels to meet resident needs and regulatory requirements.

Operational Management

• Manage nursing department budgets, staffing plans, and resource allocation.

• Collaborate with administration to achieve organizational goals and performance metrics.

• Analyze staffing patterns and implement strategies to improve efficiency and care outcomes.

• Participate in strategic planning and organizational leadership initiatives.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Work closely with physicians, therapists, social workers, and administrative leadership.

• Facilitate communication between departments to ensure coordinated resident care.

• Serve as a clinical resource for residents, families, and staff.

Qualifications

Required

• Active and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in [State].

• Minimum 5 years of progressive nursing leadership experience.

• Strong knowledge of healthcare regulations, survey processes, and quality assurance programs.

• Demonstrated ability to lead large clinical teams and drive performance improvement.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred

• Long-Term Care (LTC), Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF), Rehabilitation, or Post-Acute Care experience.

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN); Master's Degree preferred.

• Experience successfully managing state surveys and regulatory compliance initiatives.

• Certification in nursing administration or healthcare leadership.

Compensation & Benefits

We recognize and reward exceptional leadership.

Compensation Package Includes:

• Competitive salary of $130,000 – $170,000 annually

• Performance-based bonus opportunities

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid time off and paid holidays

• Continuing education and professional development support

• Leadership training opportunities

• Employee assistance program

• Supportive executive leadership team