Director of Nursing
Job Description:
Position Summary:
The Director of Nursing (DON) is responsible for overseeing all nursing operations within a primary substance abuse detox and residential treatment program opening in Des Moines. This role ensures the safe, ethical, and compliant delivery of medical and nursing services, with a strong focus on medical detox protocols, patient safety, and clinical leadership. The ideal candidate has hands-on detox experience and prior nursing leadership experience, preferably as an Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) or Director of Nursing (DON) in a behavioral health or substance use treatment setting.
Key Responsibilities:
Clinical & Nursing Leadership
- Provide leadership, oversight, and supervision of all nursing staff across detox and residential levels of care
- Ensure safe and effective implementation of medical detox protocols, medication administration, and withdrawal management
- Serve as a clinical resource for nursing staff on complex cases and medical emergencies
- Collaborate closely with Medical Providers, Clinical Leadership, and Operations to support patient care
Operations & Staffing
- Manage nursing schedules, staffing ratios, and on-call coverage to meet census and acuity needs
- Recruit, train, onboard, and evaluate nursing staff (RNs, LPNs/LVNs, and support staff as applicable)
- Conduct regular staff meetings, performance reviews, and competency assessments
- Support staff development, coaching, and retention initiatives
Compliance & Quality Assurance
- Ensure nursing operations are compliant with state regulations, licensing requirements, and accreditation standards (Joint Commission, CARF, etc.)
- Oversee documentation standards, MARs, medical records, and medication storage/security
- Participate in audits, inspections, and corrective action planning as needed
- Maintain policies and procedures related to nursing services and medical detox
Patient Care & Safety
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and compassionate care
- Monitor patient outcomes, incidents, and medication errors, implementing corrective actions when needed
- Ensure adherence to infection control, emergency preparedness, and risk management protocols
Qualifications:
Required
- Active RN license in the state of employment (compact license preferred where applicable)
- Proven experience working in a medical detox or substance abuse treatment setting
- Strong understanding of withdrawal management, detox protocols, and medication-assisted treatment
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
Preferred
- Previous nursing leadership experience as an ADON or DON
- Experience in residential substance abuse treatment programs
- Familiarity with Joint Commission or CARF accreditation standards
- Experience supervising multidisciplinary nursing teams
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Leadership role within a mission-driven organization
- Opportunity to shape nursing operations and standards of care
- Supportive, collaborative clinical environment