Director of Nursing (DON)
Cottonwood Healthcare | Nebraska
Position: Director of Nursing
Employment Type: Full-Time
Setting: Skilled Nursing & Long-Term Care
Position Overview
Cottonwood Healthcare is seeking an experienced, motivated, and results-driven Director of Nursing (DON) to lead clinical operations at one of our skilled nursing facilities in Nebraska.
We are looking for a strong clinical leader who is passionate about quality resident care, developing nursing teams, and building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
The Director of Nursing will be responsible for overseeing all nursing services, ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting staff development, and driving clinical performance throughout the facility.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Leadership & Operations
Oversee daily nursing operations, including skilled rehabilitation and long-term care services.
Provide leadership, coaching, and accountability to RNs, LPNs, CNAs, and nursing management staff.
Establish and maintain high standards for resident care, safety, and clinical outcomes.
Collaborate with the Administrator, Medical Director, and interdisciplinary team to ensure effective clinical operations.
Monitor nursing staffing levels, scheduling practices, overtime, and agency utilization.
Develop and implement strategies to improve employee engagement, retention, and nursing department performance.
Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance
Ensure compliance with applicable CMS, Nebraska DHHS, and other federal and state nursing home regulations.
Lead clinical survey readiness efforts and participate in regulatory inspections.
Assist with the development and implementation of Plans of Correction when necessary.
Monitor clinical quality indicators, including falls, infections, wounds, rehospitalizations, medication management, and other clinical outcomes.
Lead nursing department participation in Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) initiatives.
Ensure accurate clinical documentation, care planning, and appropriate follow-up on changes in resident condition.
Staff Development & Resident Care
Oversee clinical education, competency evaluations, and ongoing nursing training.
Support recruitment, onboarding, and development of nursing personnel.
Promote effective communication with residents, families, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members.
Ensure timely investigation and resolution of clinical concerns, incidents, and grievances.
Create a positive, supportive, and accountable nursing culture.
Qualifications
Required:
Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in Nebraska or eligibility for Nebraska licensure.
Previous nursing leadership or management experience.
Strong clinical assessment, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to effectively lead and develop a multidisciplinary nursing team.
Knowledge of skilled nursing and long-term care clinical practices.
Preferred:
Previous Director of Nursing or Assistant Director of Nursing experience in a skilled nursing facility.
Strong working knowledge of CMS regulations, survey processes, and QAPI programs.
Experience with clinical quality measures, staffing management, and performance improvement.
Familiarity with PointClickCare or similar electronic medical record systems.
What We're Looking For
We want a Director of Nursing who leads from the front, supports their team, and takes ownership of clinical outcomes.
The ideal candidate is highly organized, solutions-oriented, and comfortable balancing clinical oversight with operational leadership.
Above all, we are seeking someone who can build a strong nursing culture where employees feel supported, residents receive exceptional care, and quality outcomes are consistently achieved.
Why Join Cottonwood Healthcare?
Opportunity to lead and develop a dedicated nursing team.
Support from experienced facility and regional leadership.
Competitive compensation based on qualifications and experience.
Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
A culture focused on clinical excellence, accountability, and teamwork.
Apply Today
Join Cottonwood Healthcare and make a meaningful impact on the residents, families, and employees we serve.
We are looking for a nursing leader who is ready to make a difference and help elevate the standard of care in our facilities.
Pay: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
