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; Master’s 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.