Director of Nursing | DON Behavioral Health

Director of Nursing Behavioral Health

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $130,000 $160,000 (based on experience)
• Full benefits package
• Bonus eligibility
• Relocation assistance available

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Nursing to lead and elevate nursing operations within a behavioral health setting. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care while maintaining compliance with all regulatory standards.

This is an opportunity for a proven nursing leader who thrives in a collaborative environment, values clinical excellence, and is passionate about improving patient outcomes.

Position Overview

The Director of Nursing will partner closely with executive leadership to oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of all nursing services. This individual will play a critical role in driving quality initiatives, optimizing staffing and operations, and fostering a culture rooted in safety, accountability, and compassionate care.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical & Operational Leadership

• Provide leadership and oversight of all nursing operations within the facility
• Ensure delivery of safe, high-quality patient care across all units
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as internal policies
• Step in to lead nursing operations in the absence of senior nursing leadership

Quality & Patient Experience

• Drive initiatives that improve patient outcomes and overall care quality
• Ensure patients' physical, psychosocial, and cultural needs are consistently met
• Address and resolve patient care concerns and service issues

Staff Leadership & Development

• Lead recruitment, training, development, and performance management of nursing staff
• Identify training needs and implement ongoing educational programs
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement

Operations & Resource Management

• Assist with budget management and resource allocation
• Evaluate staffing models and patient acuity to ensure appropriate coverage
• Support efficient daily operations of nursing services

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure all clinical documentation meets regulatory and organizational standards
• Support development and implementation of policies and procedures
• Oversee incident investigations and participate in quality and safety committees

Additional Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care as needed
• Participate in committees and organizational initiatives
• Support crisis intervention and incident response

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Associate's Degree in Nursing required; Bachelor's degree or higher preferred
• Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice
• Minimum 2+ years of RN experience required
• 5+ years of RN experience preferred
• Prior leadership or management experience required
• Experience in behavioral health, psychiatric, or addiction treatment settings required

Preferred Background

• Prior nursing leadership experience in an inpatient psychiatric setting
• Experience in a unionized healthcare environment is a strong plus

Certifications

• Current RN license (required)
• CPR certification (required)
• De-escalation/restraint certification (training available upon hire)
• First Aid (as required by facility or state)