Director of Nursing
Job Description:Director of Nursing – Substance Abuse Treatment CenterAbout the RoleWe are seeking a clinically strong and operationally experienced Director of Nursing (DON) to lead nursing operations at our primary substance abuse treatment center. The DON is responsible for overseeing all nursing staff, ensuring safe and effective medical detox protocols, and maintaining the highest standards of patient care across inpatient treatment. This is a leadership role that requires both clinical expertise and the ability to build and manage a high-performing nursing team.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide day-to-day oversight and clinical supervision of all nursing staff, including RNs, LPNs, and BHTs/CNAs functioning in a nursing support capacityDevelop, implement, and maintain nursing policies, procedures, and protocols in alignment with state licensure requirements, ASAM standards, and applicable accreditation standards (TJC/CARF)Oversee all medical detox operations, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT) protocols, CIWA/COWS monitoring, and physician order managementCollaborate closely with the Medical Director, Clinical Director, and leadership team to ensure integrated, whole-person careManage nursing staff scheduling, productivity, and performance, including hiring, onboarding, coaching, and corrective actionEnsure accurate, timely, and compliant clinical documentation across the nursing teamMaintain medication management systems, controlled substance logs, and pharmacy complianceLead quality improvement initiatives related to nursing care, patient safety, and regulatory complianceServe as a key point of contact during state surveys, audits, and accreditation reviewsParticipate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings and contribute to care planningQualificationsActive RN license in good standing (required)Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required; MSN preferredMinimum 3–5 years of clinical nursing experience in behavioral health, substance abuse treatment, or a related settingPrior experience in medical detox and inpatient treatment strongly requiredExperience as a Director of Nursing (DON) or Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) preferredStrong working knowledge of ASAM criteria, CIWA/COWS protocols, and MATDemonstrated leadership, communication, and team management skillsFamiliarity with accreditation standards (TJC or CARF) and state licensure requirements preferredCPR/BLS certification required