Director of ICU

Merit Health; Flowood (MS); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with employer matching

Competitive pay + full benefits

Paid time off

Job summary

Merit Health River Oaks is seeking a Director of the ICU to provide strategic and operational leadership for the ICU, ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care. The role oversees staffing, budgeting, quality improvement, and service-line development.

The director will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, drive patient outcomes, staff engagement, and innovation in critical care, with 24-hour accountability for ICU operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field required or seven (7) plus years of direct experience in lieu of a Bachelor’s degree.
• Master’s Degree preferred.
• 3-5 years of leadership experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversees ICU planning, implementation, and evaluation of critical care nursing services for adults and geriatrics.
• Leads quality improvement initiatives to drive patient care and satisfaction.
• Directs recruitment, hiring, evaluation, coaching, and development of ICU staff.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Healthcare knowledge

Budgeting

Quality improvement

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Master’s Degree preferred

Experience in lieu of degree (7+ years)

Tools

Healthcare software systems

Google Workspace

Microsoft Office

Job description

Benefits

Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.

Future Security – 401(k) with employer matching to help you build long‑term financial stability.

Competitive Pay & Full Benefits – A salary and package designed to reward your expertise and dedication.

Paid Time Off – Generous EIB and vacation time to support work‑life balance.

Job Summary

The Director, ICU provides strategic and operational leadership for the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), ensuring the delivery of high‑quality, patient‑centered care. This role oversees clinical and administrative operations, including staffing, budgeting, quality improvement, and service line development. The Director collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes, enhance staff engagement, and drive innovation in critical care services. This position requires 24‑hour accountability for the ICU.

Essential Functions

• Oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of critical care nursing services for adult and geriatric populations in the ICU.
• Leads quality improvement initiatives, analyzing performance metrics, identifying opportunities for enhancement, and driving measurable improvements in patient care and satisfaction.
• Directs the recruitment, hiring, evaluation, coaching, and professional development of ICU staff to maintain a skilled and engaged workforce.
• Establishes and monitors clinical practice standards, ensuring the delivery of evidence‑based care and superior customer service.
• Develops and enforces policies and procedures for ICU operations, including disaster preparedness plans.
• Collaborates with hospital leadership to market the Critical Care service line and support the development of educational programs.
• Coordinates and facilitates staff education and in‑service training on new equipment, procedures, and technologies.
• Maintains 24‑hour accountability for problem resolution and operational oversight of ICU services.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Supervision and Staff Management
  • Provides leadership, mentorship and professional development opportunities for departmental staff.
  • Schedules employees to ensure effective use of resources. Consults with leadership on any potential staffing issues.
  • Conducts performance evaluations, sets goals and provides feedback to staff on their performance and development.
• Strategic Planning and Financial Oversight
  • Collaborates with hospital leadership to set the strategic direction for the department, including budgeting, resource allocation and long‑term planning.
  • Monitors expenditures, ensuring cost‑effective delivery of services.
  • Evaluates and implements new technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Develops and implements departmental policies and procedures and protocols to optimize quality and overall efficiencies.
• Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance
  • Ensures compliance with all relevant regulatory bodies. May oversee the accreditation process with relevant agencies ensuring that services meet or exceed industry standards.
  • Participates in audits, inspections and accreditation processes as applicable.
  • Follows established quality control practices to ensure accuracy, consistency and safety.
• Collaboration and Communication
  • Works closely with leadership teams to coordinate and improve service delivery.
  • Stays up‑to‑date with industry advancements, new technologies, and regulatory changes.
• Staff Responsibilities
  • May work in a staff role, when required. Ensures that duties and responsibilities are fulfilled while meeting all competencies established for that job.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in relevant field required or
• Seven (7) plus years of direct experience in lieu of a Bachelor’s degree required
• Master’s Degree preferred
• 3-5 years of experience in closely related field with Bachelor’s degree required
• 3-5 years of previous leadership experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and manage cross‑functional relationships.
• Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Communicate effectively with leadership, team members, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively with others, delegate responsibilities, and independently manage tasks while meeting established deadlines.
• Problem‑solving and critical thinking skills.
• In depth knowledge of industry best practices and regulatory compliance (if applicable).
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency with Google and Microsoft platforms, healthcare software systems, and data analysis tools.

Licenses and Certifications

• RN – Registered Nurse – State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required
• BCLS – Basic Life Support required
• ACLS – Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred

Why Work at Merit Health River Oaks?

At MH- River Oaks, we’re more than healthcare providers, we’re a team dedicated to compassionate care and community wellness. Join us for a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of our patients every day. Your skills, your passion, and your commitment matter here.

This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship now or in the future. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. for any employer.