Director of Emergency Services; RN

Director of Emergency Services (RN)

Mid-Level Leadership | 12-Bed Emergency Department | 100-Bed Acute Care Hospital

Location:

Northeastern Portion of Kentucky

We seek an experienced and motivated Director of Emergency Services (RN) to lead a fast-paced 12-bed Emergency Department within a 100-bed acute care hospital in the northeastern portion of Kentucky. This leader will oversee clinical operations, staff development, patient safety, regulatory compliance, and departmental performance for one of the hospital’s most essential service lines.

Ideal candidates bring strong emergency nursing leadership experience, operational and budgetary management skills, and a demonstrated commitment to fostering a culture of excellence.

The ED provides 24/7 care for critically ill and emergent adult patients using evidence-based practices, advanced technologies, and multidisciplinary collaboration. The Director plays a central role in ensuring frontline teams deliver safe, timely, and patient-centered care.

• Lead all clinical and operational functions of the Emergency Department.
• Collaborate with staff, physicians, and executive leadership to ensure patient needs are consistently met.
• Maintain and enhance performance improvement initiatives within the ED.
• Integrate evidence-based practices into departmental workflows and clinical protocols.

• Oversee hiring, onboarding, scheduling, performance evaluations, and corrective actions.
• Promote staff development through continuing education, coaching, and competency programs.
• Foster a professional, supportive, and growth-driven environment.

• Ensure adherence to clinical standards, organizational policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Direct internal and external audits for departmental compliance.
• Champion patient safety, risk mitigation, and service excellence initiatives.

• Assist in planning, preparing, and monitoring the departmental operating budget.
• Manage resource utilization to ensure cost-effective, high-quality care.
• Address service-level needs, equipment considerations, and technology upgrades.

• Work closely with the CNO, COO, and physician partners to shape departmental strategy.
• Support organizational goals through leadership engagement and problem-solving.
• Perform additional leadership responsibilities as assigned.

• Master’s degree preferred
• Applicable leadership experience may substitute for advanced degree

• Active Kentucky RN license OR compact state RN license (Kentucky participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact)

• 2–3 years of progressive leadership experience in Emergency Services
• Departmental operations experience, including budgeting
• Experience in staff development and continuing education initiatives

• BLS required within 1 month of hire
• ACLS required within 6 months
• PALS required within 6 months

• Full-time, exempt leadership position
• Relocation assistance and sign-on bonus are available and negotiable
• Comprehensive benefits package

The northeastern portion of Kentucky offers a blend of small-town charm, affordability, and beautiful natural surroundings. With rolling hills, rivers, and abundant outdoor recreation, the area provides a high quality of life and a strong sense of community—an appealing environment for healthcare professionals and families.