Director of Nursing (DON), Rehabilitation Center (hospital-based)

We are seeking a very experienced and skilled Registered Nurse who combines strong clinical knowledge with exceptional leadership, administrative, and communication abilities to ensure the smooth, compliant, and high-quality delivery of nursing services in our nursing home. Explore our hospitals and discover care that’s high-tech, high-touch, and close to home: Secaucus University Hospital, Flagship campus featuring the Robotic Surgery Institute and modernized emergency care.

About Us:

Welcome to Hudson Regional Health

 

Technology Transforming Care

Hudson Regional Health is a newly unified healthcare network serving Hudson County through four hospitals.

 

Together, these hospitals form a single, integrated system with a shared vision—to deliver modern, patient-first care supported by innovation. From robotic-assisted surgery and AI-powered diagnostics to real-time monitoring and precision neurosurgery, HRH is redefining what’s possible in community healthcare.

 

Patients across the region now have access to state-of-the-art procedures and nationally recognized specialists, all within a connected, local network designed to put care first.

 

Our Services

We focus on the care our patients need most, delivered with precision, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

• Advanced Emergency Services - 24/7 emergency departments across all four hospitals
• Robotic-Assisted Surgery - featuring the Da Vinci XI and ExcelsiusGPS systems
• Neurosurgery & Spine Care - including Stealth Navigation and precision-guided treatment
• Women’s Health & Maternity -comprehensive services tailored for every stage
• Imaging & Diagnostics - AI-enhanced systems for faster, more accurate results
• Outpatient & Specialty Care - coordinated care across multiple disciplines
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Our Hospitals
Explore our hospitals and discover care that’s high-tech, high-touch, and close to home:

• Secaucus University Hospital, Flagship campus featuring the Robotic Surgery Institute and modernized emergency care.
• Bayonne University Hospital, A full-service community hospital offering personalized acute care.
• Hoboken University Hospital, A local leader in women’s health, family medicine, and outpatient services.
• The Heights University Hospital (Jersey City), Expanding access to state-of-the-art care in the heart of Jersey City.

What You'll Be Doing:

We are seeking an experienced Director of Nursing (DON) for the organization and the administration of the nursing services of the Hospital Rehabilitation Center. In this role, you will be accountable for all nursing services and the overall quality of patient care. We are seeking a very experienced and skilled Registered Nurse who combines strong clinical knowledge with exceptional leadership, administrative, and communication abilities to ensure the smooth, compliant, and high-quality delivery of nursing services in our nursing home. You will be ultimately responsible for the well-being of the residents from a nursing perspective. You will also keep the Administrator and Medical Director of the Rehabilitation Center informed of the activities of the nursing service and of any concerns relating to the care of the patients.

 

Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Leadership and Oversight:

• Directing Nursing Operations: The DON is responsible for the overall nursing program, including developing, implementing, and evaluating nursing policies, procedures, and standards of care.
• Ensuring High Standards of Care: DON ensures that all residents receive safe, effective, and person-centered nursing care in accordance with professional standards and best practices.
• Patient Care Coordination: Overseeing the coordination of patient care, including assessments, developing, and implementing individualized care plans, and evaluating patient progress.
• Quality Improvement: Leading and participating in quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI) initiatives to continually enhance the quality of care and resident outcomes.
• Regulatory Compliance: Staying up to date with and ensuring strict adherence to all federal, state, and local regulations governing nursing home operations (e.g., CMS, state Department of Health). This is a huge part of their role.

 

Staff Management and Development:

• Supervision and Performance Management: Supervising, training, evaluating the performance of, and providing mentorship to all nursing staff. This includes addressing any performance issues and implementing remediation plans.
• Conflict Resolution: De-escalating issues and resolving conflicts among nursing staff, or between staff, residents, and families.

 

Administrative and Operational Responsibilities:

• Liaison and Communication: Serving as a crucial link between the nursing staff, residents, families, physicians, the Nursing Home Administrator, and other department heads.
• Safety and Environment: Collaborating with other departments (e.g., environmental services) to maintain a safe environment for residents and staff and implementing accident prevention practices.
• Emergency Preparedness: Playing a key role in the facility's emergency preparedness and response plans.
• Legal and Ethical Considerations: Being knowledgeable about incidents at the facility and potentially testifying in legal cases related to nursing care.

 

Collaboration and Communication:

• Interdisciplinary Team: Working closely with other healthcare professionals (physicians, therapists, social workers, dietitians) to ensure a holistic approach to resident care.
• Family Communication: Communicating with residents' families regarding their loved one's care and addressing concerns.

 

What We're Looking For:

Qualifications and Experience:

• 2-4 years supervisory experience in Long Term/ Rehab setting required
• Valid NJ RN License, BLS (Basic Life Support)
• Proven Leadership Skills: Team building and motivation, Communication (verbal and written), Problem-solving and decision-making, and Conflict resolution.

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications: When determining the compensation, several factors may be considered including, years of relevant experience, credentials, union contracts, education, and internal equity.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401K, Retirement savings plan with employer contribution
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Opportunities for professional growth, development, and continuing education
• Employee wellness programs and resources

 

Influenza Vaccinations are a requirement for employment. If you are not currently vaccinated you will be required to receive the vaccination prior to hire date, during the influenza season, if you are offered employment, unless you request and receive an approved medical exemption.

 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.