Director of Nursing (DON) – Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

Job Description

An established senior living and long-term care organization is seeking an experienced nursing executive to lead clinical operations, elevate care delivery standards, and drive operational excellence across a continuum of care environment. This is a highly visible leadership role responsible for shaping nursing strategy, mentoring clinical leaders, and ensuring exceptional resident outcomes and satisfaction.


Benefits and Compensation:

  • Competitive executive-level compensation package
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan with employer contribution
  • Paid time off, holidays, and wellness leave
  • Executive leadership development opportunities
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
  • Professional licensing reimbursement
  • Collaborative and mission-driven leadership environment
  • Employee wellness and assistance programs
  • Long-term career advancement opportunities within a growing healthcare organization

Requirements & Qualifications:


  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required
  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) preferred
  • Active Registered Nurse license in the State of Connecticut or eligibility for Connecticut licensure through current out-of-state licensure
  • Minimum 5–7 years of progressive nursing administration experience
  • At least 3 years in a senior nursing leadership role such as Director of Nursing or Vice President of Patient Care Services
  • Prior long-term care (LTC) experience required
  • Strong understanding of budgeting, strategic planning, staffing operations, and policy development
  • Experience with clinical operations oversight and regulatory compliance
  • Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Strong organizational, leadership, and team development capabilities
  • Proficiency with computer systems and reporting tools

Must Haves:


  • Lead nursing operations across a multi-level continuum of care while ensuring consistency in patient care standards and nursing practices
  • Drive fiscal accountability for nursing department staffing, labor management, and annual budget development
  • Mentor and develop Care Managers and nursing leadership teams with measurable accountability standards
  • Partner with Human Resources to implement nursing recruitment and retention strategies
  • Coordinate with clinical education and quality teams to implement staff education and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Build strong collaborative relationships with physicians, senior leadership, families, and interdisciplinary departments
  • Analyze operational and clinical performance metrics to support measurable improvements in care outcomes and resident satisfaction
  • Oversee development and implementation of nursing policies, procedures, and strategic action plans
  • Support clinical research initiatives and evidence-based nursing practices
  • Lead initiatives focused on customer service excellence and person-centered care delivery

Preferred Background & Skills:


  • Experience managing nursing operations within skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or senior living environments
  • Demonstrated success improving resident satisfaction and quality outcomes
  • Background in multi-department operational leadership
  • Experience leading change management initiatives within healthcare settings
  • Strong contract negotiation and strategic planning experience
  • Ability to compile and present statistical and operational reports to executive leadership
  • Proven success building high-performing clinical teams
  • Familiarity with reimbursement processes and quality reporting programs
  • Passion for person-centered care and compassionate leadership