Assistant Director of Nursing CVOR (RN) - Relocation Offered!

MedStar Washington Hospital Center is seeking an experienced nurse leader to serve as Assistant Director of Nursing for the Cardiovascular Operating Room (CVOR). This role is an opportunity to lead one of the region’s most advanced cardiac surgery programs while working within a nationally recognized academic health system committed to clinical excellence, innovation, and Magnet® nursing practice.

The Assistant Director partners closely with the Director of Nursing and surgical leadership to oversee daily operations, support staff development, and ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality cardiovascular surgical care.

Why MedStar Washington Hospital Center?

• We are incredibly proud of our two-time ANCC Pathway to Excellence® designation and Magnet® Program Recognition, the highest credential for nursing a hospital can receive. MedStar Washington is one of only two hospitals in the nation to hold active dual designations for nursing excellence and a positive work environment, as recognized by the ANCC.
• Home to one of the nation’s top cardiology, heart, and vascular surgery programs, as recognized by U.S. News & World Report, and earned the highest possible quality rating for cardiac surgery from the prestigious Society of Thoracic Surgeons. 
• Ongoing investment in surgical services, including state-of-the-art CV operating rooms opening later this year.
• Opportunity to lead highly specialized perioperative teams performing complex cardiac and vascular procedures

Position Overview

• The Assistant Director of Nursing – CVOR is a key member of the nursing leadership team responsible for operational oversight of the Cardiovascular Operating Room. This leader collaborates with the Director of Nursing to manage clinical operations, support nursing practice, and ensure exceptional patient outcomes.
• The role includes leadership responsibilities across staff development, quality and safety initiatives, operational efficiency, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• The Assistant Director also provides leadership coverage for the department in the Director’s absence and supports ongoing initiatives related to quality improvement, patient experience, and workforce development.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with the Director of Nursing to oversee daily CVOR operations, staffing, and patient flow
• Lead and support perioperative nursing teams delivering complex cardiovascular surgical care
• Promote a culture of patient safety, high reliability, and evidence-based practice
• Monitor and improve quality metrics, surgical outcomes, and patient experience
• Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesia, and interdisciplinary teams to optimize surgical care delivery
• Participate in Magnet® initiatives, performance improvement projects, and leadership committees

The Assistant Director plays a critical role in fostering an environment of clinical excellence, professional growth, and collaborative practice.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing required
• Master’s degree in Nursing or a related healthcare field preferred

Experience

• Minimum 3–4 years of progressive nursing experience (CVOR preferred) (OR required)
• Leadership or supervisory experience preferred

Licensure

• Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in Washington, DC
• BLS certification