Director of Nursing

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

The Director of Nursing at the Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment Facility plays a critical leadership role in overseeing and coordinating all aspects of nursing care across detox and inpatient levels of care. This individual ensures the delivery of safe, compassionate, and evidence-based nursing services to support individuals on their recovery journey. The Director will be responsible for staff supervision, clinical oversight, regulatory compliance, and the integration of nursing within a multidisciplinary treatment model.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Oversight

• Oversee the delivery of nursing care for patients undergoing detoxification and inpatient treatment
• Ensure proper assessment, documentation, and implementation of individualized nursing care plans
• Monitor patient acuity and ensure appropriate nurse-to-patient staffing ratios
• Guide the management of medical emergencies and the administration of medications, including MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment)
• Ensure continuity of care through effective nursing handoffs and shift reporting
• Oversee infection control protocols and adherence to patient safety standards

Leadership and Staff Management

• Recruit, train, and supervise nursing staff, including RNs, LPNs, and medical technicians
• Facilitate ongoing staff education, mentorship, and performance evaluations
• Foster a culture of accountability, respect, and professional growth
• Develop and manage nursing schedules to ensure adequate coverage for 24/7 operations
• Lead daily nursing huddles and interdisciplinary meetings to coordinate patient care

Collaboration and Teamwork

• Work in partnership with physicians, behavioral health providers, and case managers to support comprehensive treatment planning
• Participate in leadership team meetings to support program development and clinical strategy
• Facilitate communication between nursing and other departments to ensure coordinated care
• Serve as a liaison between nursing staff and executive leadership

Documentation and Compliance

• Ensure accurate and timely documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR) system
• Maintain compliance with state and federal regulations, including NJ Department of Health, Joint Commission, and SAMHSA guidelines
• Conduct regular audits of charts, medication records, and nursing documentation
• Oversee the implementation and adherence to all clinical policies and procedures

Professional Development

• Promote a culture of continuous learning and evidence-based practice among the nursing team
• Remain current with advances in nursing care, addiction treatment, and detox protocols
• Attend conferences, trainings, and professional development activities as appropriate
• Support clinical education partnerships and student training programs if applicable

Quality Improvement

• Monitor clinical indicators and participate in facility-wide performance improvement initiatives
• Implement protocols to improve patient outcomes, reduce adverse events, and enhance efficiency
• Lead incident reviews and root cause analyses to drive system improvements
• Contribute to strategic planning related to clinical services and patient care quality

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required; Masters degree (MSN or MHA) preferred

Licensure & Certification

• Valid RN license in the State of New Jersey
• BLS/CPR certification (current); ACLS preferred
• Certification in addiction nursing (CARN or CARN-AP) preferred or willingness to obtain

Experience

• Minimum 3 - 5 years of nursing leadership experience, preferably in a behavioral health or SUD setting
• Strong knowledge of detox protocols, medication management, and trauma-informed care
• Experience managing multi-disciplinary teams and working in 24/7 clinical environments

Skills

• Strong clinical judgment and ability to oversee nursing care in high-acuity situations
• Excellent leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills
• Organizational ability to manage scheduling, staffing, and performance
• Proficiency with EMR systems and clinical documentation
• Familiarity with Office 360 Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, etc.)

Work Environment

• On-site at a licensed SUD treatment facility offering medical detox and inpatient services
• Dynamic and fast-paced care setting with a diverse patient population
• Role includes oversight during day-to-day operations and may require evening or weekend availability

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move for extended periods during shifts
• Capable of lifting or supporting patients and responding to emergency medical situations
• Must be able to work in a high-stress, emotionally sensitive environment

Benefits

• Health insurance
• 401k
• PTO
• A mission-driven, collaborative, and inclusive work culture

This position offers the opportunity to lead a dedicated nursing team and shape high-quality care for individuals in recovery. Candidates with a passion for clinical excellence, team development, and patient advocacy are encouraged to apply.