Assistant Director of Nursing

Job Description

Job Description

Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON)

Ellicott City Healthcare Center – Ellicott City, MD

Full-Time | Exempt Leadership Role

Ellicott City Healthcare Center is seeking a highly motivated, clinically strong Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) to join our leadership team. This is an excellent opportunity for a Registered Nurse with long-term care experience who is ready to step into a key leadership role and help drive quality care, regulatory excellence, and staff development.

We are committed to providing compassionate, resident-centered care and are looking for a leader who shares that passion while maintaining strong operational and clinical standards.

The Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) supports the Director of Nursing (DON) in the planning, organization, and direction of all nursing services within the facility. The ADON serves as a clinical leader responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting staff development, and driving quality improvement initiatives to enhance resident outcomes.

This role is ideal for a nurse leader who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented skilled nursing environment .

• Assist the DON in overseeing daily nursing department operations , ensuring delivery of high-quality care

• Conduct routine nursing rounds to monitor resident status, staff performance, and care standards

• Oversee and support key clinical systems:

  • Infection prevention & control

  • Wound management

  • Medication administration

  • Fall prevention and risk management

• Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant clinical documentation

• Maintain compliance with CMS, Maryland Department of Health, and other regulatory standards

• Assist in survey readiness activities and lead initiatives during regulatory inspections

• Participate in plan of correction development and implementation

• Monitor and audit clinical processes to identify and correct deficiencies

• Support and actively participate in QAPI (Quality Assurance & Performance Improvement) programs

• Supervise and support RNs, LPNs, and CNAs

• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, staffing coordination, and retention efforts

• Provide coaching, mentoring, and performance evaluations

• Develop and lead in-service education and training programs

• Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and professional growth

• Ensure delivery of person-centered, compassionate care

• Address resident and family concerns promptly and effectively

• Participate in care plan meetings when needed

• Promote dignity, safety, and quality of life for all residents

• Assist with staff scheduling and labor management

• Support departmental budgeting and cost-control initiatives

• Prepare and maintain necessary reports, audits, and compliance documentation

• Assume the role of Director of Nursing in their absence

• Current, active Registered Nurse (RN) license in Maryland

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in a skilled nursing or long-term care setting

• At least 1 year of supervisory or leadership experience

• Strong working knowledge of:

  • Long-term care regulations

  • Survey process and compliance requirements

  • Clinical systems and quality measures

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

• Experience in an ADON, Unit Manager, or Nurse Supervisor role

• Experience leading QAPI initiatives or survey processes

• Proven leadership and team-building skills

• Strong clinical judgment and critical thinking

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities

• Proficiency with EHR/EMR systems

• Full-time leadership role with flexible availability

• May include occasional evening, weekend, or on-call responsibilities

• Active presence on the units and engagement with staff is expected

• Competitive salary (based on experience)

• Comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off (PTO)

  • Retirement plan options

• Supportive and collaborative leadership team

• Opportunities for career advancement within the organization

• A workplace culture focused on quality care and staff support

If you’re a dedicated nurse leader ready to take the next step in your career and make a meaningful impact on resident care , we encourage you to apply today!