Resident Care Director

Resident Care Director (RCD)

Location: The Gables of Fitchburg
Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports To: Executive Director

Position Summary

The Resident Care Director (RCD) is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and quality of resident care services within an EOEA-regulated Assisted Living Residence in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The RCD ensures that all resident care services are delivered in a person-centered, respectful, and compliant manner, consistent with Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) regulations (651 CMR 12.00) and applicable state laws.

This role provides clinical oversight, staff leadership, regulatory compliance, resident assessments, and family communication while supporting residents’ independence, dignity, and quality of life. The RCD works collaboratively with the Executive Director, Wellness staff, outside healthcare providers, residents, and families to ensure safe, ethical, and effective care delivery.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Staff Management

• Provide direct supervision, coaching, and leadership to Resident Care Assistants (RCAs), nurses, and other care team members.
• Participate in recruiting, hiring, onboarding, training, evaluation, and discipline of resident care staff.
• Ensure staffing levels and schedules meet resident care needs and EOEA requirements.
• Lead regular care team meetings, in-service trainings, and competency reviews.
• Promote a culture of accountability, professionalism, teamwork, and compassionate care.
• Ensure all staff maintain required certifications and training per EOEA regulations.

2. Resident Care Oversight

• Conduct initial and ongoing resident service needs assessments in compliance with EOEA standards.
• Develop, implement, and regularly update Individualized Service Plans (ISPs).
• Monitor changes in resident condition and coordinate appropriate care interventions.
• Ensure residents receive services that promote independence while ensuring safety.
• Coordinate care with physicians, visiting nurses, hospice providers, pharmacies, therapists, and other healthcare professionals.
• Oversee medication management programs, including delegation, documentation, and audits.

3. Regulatory Compliance (EOEA & Massachusetts Law)

• Ensure full compliance with 651 CMR 12.00 (EOEA Assisted Living Regulations).
• Maintain accurate, complete, and timely documentation for:
• Resident assessments and service plans
• Medication administration and oversight
• Incident reports and investigations
• Staff training records and certifications
• Prepare for, participate in, and respond to EOEA surveys, audits, and inspections.
• Implement corrective action plans as required and monitor ongoing compliance.
• Stay current with changes in Massachusetts assisted living laws, EOEA guidance, and best practices.

4. Resident & Family Engagement

• Serve as a primary point of contact for residents and families regarding care-related matters.
• Communicate clearly and compassionately regarding care plans, health changes, and service needs.
• Address and resolve concerns or complaints related to resident care.
• Participate in resident and family meetings, care conferences, and transitions of care.
• Advocate for residents’ rights, preferences, and dignity at all times.

5. Quality Assurance, Risk Management & Safety

• Monitor and improve quality of care outcomes and resident satisfaction.
• Oversee infection control practices and emergency preparedness plans.
• Investigate incidents, falls, medication errors, and other care-related events.
• Implement corrective actions and staff retraining when necessary.
• Participate in community risk management and continuous quality improvement initiatives.

6. Collaboration & Administration

• Work closely with the Executive Director and leadership team to support operational goals.
• Contribute to policy development, SOPs, and care-related program improvements.
• Assist with budgeting, supply management, and resource planning for resident care services.
• Support admissions, assessments, and transitions to ensure appropriate level of care.

Qualifications

Education & Licensure

• Active Massachusetts RN or LPN license required
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred
• Current CPR/First Aid certification required

Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in assisted living, senior housing, long-term care, or healthcare
• Prior supervisory or management experience strongly preferred
• Experience working in EOEA-regulated Assisted Living Residences highly desirable

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of Massachusetts EOEA regulations (651 CMR 12.00) and assisted living standards
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team-building skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
• Ability to conduct assessments, develop service plans, and oversee care delivery
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism, empathy, and discretion
• Commitment to resident-centered care, ethical practice, and regulatory compliance

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to walk, stand, bend, and assist in resident care activities as needed
• Ability to respond to emergencies and be on call as required
• Must be able to work flexible hours to meet community needs