RN Director Behavioral Health / Psychiatric Services

Job Description

Job Description

RN Director – Behavioral Health / Psychiatric Services

Department : Behavioral Health / Psychiatric Nursing

Employment Type : Full-Time, Exempt

Compensation : $150,000 – $185,000 per year

Relocation Assistance : Available for the ideal candidate

Position Summary

We seek an experienced Registered Nurse (RN) Director to provide operational and clinical leadership within our Behavioral Health department. This role supports the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) and assumes 24 / 7 accountability for assigned psychiatric service areas, ensuring the highest standards of patient care, safety, and clinical excellence.

The Director will lead a multidisciplinary team focused on providing compassionate, evidence-based care for patients requiring psychiatric and behavioral health services. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, hands-on nursing leader with strong communication skills and a proven ability to drive quality, compliance, and staff engagement across units.

Key Responsibilities

Provide leadership and operational oversight for all psychiatric nursing services.

Partner with the CNO and executive leadership to develop and implement strategic goals and patient care standards.

Ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality, and patient-centered behavioral health care.

Oversee staffing, scheduling, and competency development of clinical personnel.

Manage departmental budgets, resources, and performance improvement initiatives.

Serve as a role model and advocate for professional nursing practice and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Maintain compliance with hospital policies, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

Education :

Required : Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with a Bachelor's in a healthcare-related field or a BSN.

Preferred : Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Master’s in a related healthcare field.

Experience :

Minimum 3 years of psychiatric / behavioral health experience in a hospital setting (required).

Minimum 2 years of progressive leadership experience as a Manager or Director in an acute care hospital.

Licensure & Certifications :

Active and unrestricted RN license in the state of Massachusetts (required).

Current CPR certification (required).

Other Requirements :

Successful completion of background check and pre-employment health screening, including drug testing.

Why Join Us

This hospital combines advanced, state-of-the-art facilities with a community-centered mission to deliver compassionate, comprehensive care. With leading programs in behavioral health, heart and vascular care, orthopedics, women’s health, and advanced surgical services, the organization provides a supportive environment where clinical leaders can make a lasting impact.

Ideal Candidate Snapshot

Seniority Level : Director

Experience : 2–5 years in hospital leadership

Education : Master’s degree minimum

Travel : None required

Screening Questions

Do you have at least 3 years of psychiatric / behavioral health experience in a hospital setting?

Do you hold an active Massachusetts RN license ?

Do you have at least 2 years of hospital leadership experience ?

Skills & Competencies

Behavioral Health Operations

Staff Leadership & Mentorship

Regulatory Compliance (Joint Commission, CMS)

Budget & Resource Management

Crisis Intervention & De-escalation Techniques

Performance Improvement & Quality Metrics

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Communication & Relationship Management

About the Area

Located in the heart of Central Massachusetts , this region offers a perfect balance of urban amenities and small-town charm — with easy access to Boston, beautiful outdoor recreation, and a rich mix of arts, dining, and cultural experiences. It’s an excellent place for healthcare professionals who value both career growth and quality of life.