Director of Nursing

About the role

The Director of Nursing (DON) leads the nursing department of a 158‑bed skilled nursing facility in Maryland, overseeing care for an average census of 105 residents. This senior role ensures high‑quality resident care, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.

Key responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to all nursing staff, fostering a culture of clinical excellence and resident‑centered care.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including CMS and Maryland Department of Health requirements.
• Develop, implement, and monitor nursing policies, procedures, and clinical standards.
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate nursing management, including Assistant Directors, Unit Managers, and licensed staff.
• Collaborate with the Administrator, Medical Director, and interdisciplinary team to achieve quality, operational, and financial goals.
• Monitor quality assurance and performance improvement initiatives and lead survey readiness activities.

Required profile

• Active, unrestricted RN license in Maryland (or eligibility for licensure by endorsement).
• Minimum five years of leadership experience as an ADON or DON in a skilled nursing or long‑term care setting.
• Thorough knowledge of federal and Maryland regulations governing skilled nursing facilities.
• Strong clinical assessment, decision‑making, communication, and organizational skills.

Required skills

• Proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) systems.