Director of Nursing

Director of Nursing (DON) – Clinical Ninja. Leadership Legend. Resident Advocate.

Location: One of our fabulous Helia Healthcare communities

Type: Full-Time (with a side of superhero duties)

Reports to: Administrator (your partner-in-care chaos)

Leads: The heartbeat of our facility—our incredible nursing team

At Helia Healthcare, we believe in care with a capital C—and we’re on the lookout for a Director of Nursing who can bring both clinical know-how and warmhearted leadership to our team. If you can juggle a care plan, a staff meeting, a surprise visit from the state, and still find time to high-five a CNA, keep reading.

This isn’t a job for the faint of heart. It’s for someone who can walk the walk in scrubs, solve problems in real-time, and inspire others to do their best—even on the days the Wi-Fi goes down and the med cart needs restocking.

We’re not just a healthcare facility—we’re a home. And we’re counting on you to help us keep it that way.

What You'll Be Doing (besides saving the day):

• Guiding your nursing team like a seasoned captain—steady hand, kind heart, and a keen eye for top-tier care
• Making sure every resident gets the kind of care you’d want for your own family (with all the dignity, compassion, and attention they deserve)
• Reviewing care plans, ensuring accurate documentation, and managing the occasional mystery rash or med question like the clinical detective you are
• Hiring, training, scheduling, coaching, encouraging, and maybe even refereeing now and then
• Partnering with physicians, therapists, and a cast of healthcare superheroes to keep care plans aligned and positive outcomes 
• Keeping an eagle eye on infection control, fall prevention, wound care, and anything else that keeps residents safe and healthy
• Managing budgets, staffing, and supplies without breaking a sweat—or the bank
• Smiling your way through audits, surveys, and paperwork like the rockstar leader you are
• Leading QAPI projects that lead to real improvements, not just checkboxes
• Creating a team culture built on teamwork, trust, and maybe a little well-earned sass

What We’re Looking For:

• A licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Illinois (no exceptions—we checked with the law)
• 1–3+ years in long-term care, geriatric, or acute care nursing leadership
• Someone who enjoys policy, process, and compliance (yes, we know you exist)
• Confidence with documentation, MDS, survey prep, care planning, and staff development
• Excellent communication skills—you’ll be the go-to for staff, residents, families, and sometimes, the vending machine guy
• A calm demeanor and sense of humor when things get hectic (which they will, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back)

The Usual Physical Stuff:

You’ll be walking, standing, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and occasionally ducking flying juice cups or a very enthusiastic hug from a grateful resident. Bodily fluids happen, but we’ve got PPE, protocols, and a good laundry team.

What We Offer (besides great coffee and lots of laughs):

• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits (health, dental, vision, 401k, PTO—you name it)
• Career advancement opportunities—we love helping our team grow from within
• A supportive, family-owned environment that actually feels like family
• A no-drama, solution-focused workplace culture built on respect, integrity, and genuine appreciation
• A chance to make a real difference in the lives of residents—and your coworkers

The Fine Print:

Employment offers are contingent on a successful background check and drug screen. (We like to keep things professional and above board.)

Helia Healthcare, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We believe diversity makes us stronger, smarter, and better at what we do—and we’re proud to build inclusive teams that reflect the communities we serve.

If you’re ready to lead with heart, heal with skill, and laugh a little along the way—apply now. We can’t wait to meet you.