Director of Nursing, Behavioral Health

Welcome

Lead with purpose. Inspire change. Transform behavioral health care.

Clinton, MD location - generous PTO and benefits, salary range $140k - $150k annually.

Signet Health, a national leader in behavioral health management, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Nursing (DON) to lead a 24-bed adult inpatient psychiatric unit and provide oversight of behavioral health nursing services within the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and the behavioral health area of the Emergency Department at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center.

This is a high-impact leadership role for a seasoned nurse leader who is passionate about delivering exceptional patient care and building high-performing, engaged teams.

Overview

Reporting to the Executive Director of Behavioral Health Services, the DON serves as a key member of the leadership team, with responsibility for driving clinical excellence, operational performance, and a culture centered on patient-first care. This role offers the opportunity to shape care delivery, mentor and develop staff, and lead initiatives that produce meaningful outcomes in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

Essential Duties

• Directs quality and utilization standards to ensure coordinated, patient-centered, and cost-effective care.
• Leads clinical and nursing operations, including staffing, performance management, and resource allocation.
• Champions a patient-first culture and maintain leadership visibility through daily rounding.
• Ensures seamless care transitions and full regulatory compliance with continuous readiness.
• Collaborates with physicians and partners to improve outcomes and resolve issues.
• Builds and develops high-performing teams while promoting safety, accountability, and evidence-based practice.
• Requirements/Qualifications

Education, Experience & Skills

Master’s degree in Nursing (MSN) with a minimum of 5 years of nursing leadership experience in an inpatient, hospital-based psychiatric setting.

• Active Maryland RN license or eligibility for endorsement required.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Psychiatric nursing or nursing administration certification preferred.

Salary Range

• $140,000 - $150,000 annually
• EOE

Hospital/Program Description

MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, Clinton MD is a 182-bed facility providing over 48,000 emergency room visits annually. The Behavioral Health Program includes a 24-bed Adult inpatient unit, a Partial Hospitalization Program and a Behavioral Health section of the Emergency Department.

Southern Maryland offers the peace and comfort of a smaller community with the culture of Washington DC a short 20 minutes away. Historic homes and landmarks comprise the city's main tourism landscape and offer a glimpse into Maryland's early life. Nearby attractions include Andrews Air Force Base and Camp Springs and the National Harbor.

Signet offers a comprehensive benefits package including a generous starting salary and excellent career growth opportunities!