Director of Acute Behavioral Health (RN)

Children's Nebraska; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Children's Nebraska in Omaha is hiring a Director of Acute Behavioral Health. This role is responsible for overseeing operations and ensuring high-quality care within the Behavioral Health & Wellness Center. The ideal candidate will have extensive nursing experience and leadership skills to drive strategic initiatives within pediatric mental health services.

Join a dedicated team committed to improving the life of every child and family through expert, compassionate care in a dynamic, supportive environment. A comprehensive benefits package and relocation support are available.

Qualifications

• 7–9 years of nursing experience, including 5 years in leadership.
• Ability to communicate effectively in diverse settings.
• Commitment to strategic planning and project management.

Responsibilities

• Directs planning and development for acute behavioral health services.
• Provides clinical and operational leadership for care coordination.
• Collaborates on developing cohesive, quality-driven service lines.

Skills

Knowledge of systems theory

Effective communication skills

Critical thinking and strategic planning

Analytical skills for operational systems

Negotiation and problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing

Master’s Degree in related field (to pursue within a year)

Job description

Job Description

Are you a behavioral health leader passionate about delivering high-quality crisis and acute mental health services for children, adolescents, and families? Children's Nebraska is seeking a mission-driven Director of Acute Behavioral Health - RN to lead operations within our Behavioral Health & Wellness Center and support the growth and success of a dedicated team.

In partnership with senior leadership, this role will oversee acute behavioral health services across our state‑of‑the‑art facility, which provides a comprehensive continuum of pediatric mental health care, including crisis assessment, inpatient and partial hospitalization programs, eating disorder services, outpatient therapy, and integrated primary care. As a leader in pediatric behavioral health, Children's Nebraska is committed to ensuring every child and family receives expert, compassionate care when they need it most.

At Children's Nebraska, our mission is to improve the life of every child through exceptional care, advocacy, research, and education. As Nebraska’s only full‑service pediatric healthcare center, we provide comprehensive care across a broad spectrum of services while fostering a People First culture built on belonging, wellbeing, learning, growth, and joy. Join an organization where you can turn your passion into purpose and make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families.

Located in Omaha, Nebraska, Children’s offers the opportunity to live in a vibrant, family‑friendly community that combines the amenities of a major metropolitan area with Midwest charm. Omaha is known for its strong economy, excellent schools, thriving arts and cultural scene, world‑class attractions, and exceptional quality of life.

Comprehensive benefits package and relocation available. Check out the Children’s Comprehensive Benefits Guide or explore the benefits. Check out our YouTube video to hear from employees and see inside the Behavioral Health and Wellness Center.

A Brief Overview

Directs and implements the planning and program development for acute behavioral health services. Provides clinical and operational leadership for acute behavioral health services to ensure high quality care coordination and operational systems, in collaboration with the medical director of the department(s). Standardizes and delivers high quality clinical care and outcomes and supports the development of the strategic plan. Works collaboratively with other behavioral health leaders, hospital, physician and nursing leaders to create a cohesive, quality driven behavioral health service line.

Education Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Nursing required.
• Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in a related field, and commitment to work toward a master’s within one year of hire required.

Experience Qualifications

• 7–9 years of nursing experience, including 5 years in a leadership position required.

Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of systems theory and ability to apply it to operations.
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups in a wide variety of settings.
• Ability to utilize critical thinking skills, do strategic planning and project management.
• Ability to analyze operational systems and fiscal reports.
• Skills in negotiation and problem solving.

Licenses and Certifications

• RN – Registered Nurse – State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure in Nebraska required upon hire.
• CNML – Certified Nurse Manager and Leader preferred.
• NE‑BC – Nurse Executive preferred.
• NEA‑BC – Nurse Executive, Advanced preferred.

Children’s is an equal‑opportunity employer, embracing and valuing the unique strengths and differences of people. We cultivate an inclusive environment of respect and trust where we all belong. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, religion, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.