Director of Nursing, Behavioral Health

Job Description

Job Description

Overview

Reporting to the Executive Director of Behavioral Health Services, the DON serves as a key member of the leadership team, with responsibility for driving clinical excellence, operational performance, and a culture centered on patient-first care. This role offers the opportunity to shape care delivery, mentor and develop staff, and lead initiatives that produce meaningful outcomes in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:  

• Directs quality and utilization standards to ensure coordinated, patient-centered, and cost-effective care.
• Leads clinical and nursing operations, including staffing, performance management, and resource allocation.
• Champions a patient-first culture and maintain leadership visibility through daily rounding.
• Ensures seamless care transitions and full regulatory compliance with continuous readiness.
• Collaborates with physicians and partners to improve outcomes and resolve issues.
• Builds and develops high-performing teams while promoting safety, accountability, and evidence-based practice.

Responsibilities

Education, Experience & Skills: 

• Master’s degree in Nursing (MSN) with a minimum of 5 years of nursing leadership experience in an inpatient, hospital-based psychiatric setting.
• Active Maryland RN license or eligibility for endorsement required.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Psychiatric nursing or nursing administration certification preferred.

Salary Range:

$140,000 - $150,000 annually

EOE

Qualifications

MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, Clinton MD is a 182-bed facility providing over 48,000 emergency room visits annually. The Behavioral Health Program includes a 24-bed Adult inpatient unit, a Partial Hospitalization Program and a Behavioral Health section of the Emergency Department.

Southern Maryland offers the peace and comfort of a smaller community with the culture of Washington DC a short 20 minutes away. Historic homes and landmarks comprise the city's main tourism landscape and offer a glimpse into Maryland's early life. Nearby attractions include Andrews Air Force Base and Camp Springs and the National Harbor.

Signet offers a comprehensive benefits package including a generous starting salary and excellent career growth opportunities!