Director of Nursing (DON)
Location: Cedar Falls, Iowa
Facility Opening: Late Summer 2026
Status: Full-Time | Exempt
We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Director of Nursing (DON) to lead our nursing services and play a critical role in the successful launch and ongoing operation of our new treatment center.
The Director of Nursing is responsible for overseeing all nursing operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards, developing nursing staff, and promoting a culture of excellence in patient care. This leader will work closely with the Executive Director, Medical Director, and Clinical Director to ensure coordinated, high-quality treatment services for individuals recovering from substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Key Responsibilities
Nursing Leadership & Operations
- Provide overall leadership and direction for nursing services.
- Develop and maintain nursing schedules to ensure appropriate staffing coverage.
- Supervise, mentor, and support nursing staff across all shifts.
- Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, professionalism, and patient-centered care.
Clinical Oversight
- Ensure timely and accurate nursing assessments, medication administration, and treatment documentation.
- Monitor patient health status and coordinate interventions as needed.
- Participate in treatment team meetings and interdisciplinary care planning.
- Collaborate with medical providers regarding patient care needs and treatment recommendations.
Regulatory Compliance & Quality Improvement
- Ensure compliance with Iowa state regulations, Joint Commission standards, and organizational policies.
- Oversee medication management processes, infection prevention protocols, and patient safety initiatives.
- Monitor quality indicators and implement performance improvement activities.
- Participate in audits, inspections, and accreditation activities.
Staff Development
- Recruit, onboard, train, and evaluate nursing personnel.
- Conduct competency assessments and support continuing education efforts.
- Provide coaching, performance feedback, and corrective action when necessary.
- Promote employee engagement and retention initiatives.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Assist with budgeting, inventory management, and operational planning.
- Maintain accurate nursing records and reports.
- Collaborate with leadership on strategic initiatives and program development.
Qualifications
Required
- Active Iowa Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing.
- Minimum of three (3) years of nursing experience in behavioral health, addiction treatment, psychiatric, detoxification, residential treatment, or related healthcare settings.
- Minimum of two (2) years of nursing leadership or supervisory experience.
- Knowledge of medication administration, detoxification protocols, and nursing best practices.
- Current CPR certification or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
Preferred
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Previous experience in substance use disorder treatment programs.
- Experience with Joint Commission accreditation standards.
- Experience opening or supporting new healthcare programs or facilities.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to walk throughout the facility and respond to patient care needs.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to perform essential nursing and administrative duties in a healthcare environment.
Benefits
Eligible employees may receive:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Company-Paid Life Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Paid Holidays
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Professional Development Opportunities
