Inpatient Behavioral Health Nursing Director

This award-winning Central California system is hiring an Inpatient Behavioral Health Nursing Director to elevate a mission-driven inpatient psychiatric program that the community trusts. If leading through purpose, building high-performing RN teams, and improving outcomes energize your career, keep reading—this opportunity is ideal for a seasoned RN with Psychiatric and Mental Health Services leadership experience who thrives in complex, fast-paced setting.

Anchored within a trusted health system that's served the community for over 50 years, the Nursing Director will join a Behavioral Health hospital with over 40-beds. This location has academic roots, and is known for high-quality care, accreditation excellence, and strong quality metrics. This organization will give the Mental Health Director of Nursing a platform to advance evidence-based care while shaping a teaching culture of safety, dignity, and recovery.

Reporting to the Chief Nursing Officer, the Inpatient Behavioral Health Nursing Director will lead nursing operations while partnering closely with the Medical Director for Psychiatry and physician faculty. Supported by two RN Managers, Psychiatric Mental Health Certified Charge Nurses, clinical educators, and intake / UR leaders, and this role collaborates daily with social work, therapists, pharmacy, security, case management, and quality to achieve shared goals—hallmarks of a seasoned Psychiatric Services Director.

The inpatient unit led by the Inpatient Behavioral Health Nursing Director primarily cares for adults requiring acute psychiatric stabilization, though youth and adolescent programs are getting off the ground as well. This team of over 100 RNs, LVNs, Behavioral Health Techs, LCSWs, and support staff are engaged in supporting to mission of the organization.

As Inpatient Behavioral Health Nursing Director, responsibilities span clinical excellence and operational leadership. On the administrative side, this leader will manage budgets within targets, optimize staffing via acuity-based scheduling, drive throughput and LOS metrics, strengthen physician relations, and ensure regulatory readiness for national and state surveys. Clinically, this leader will serve as a mentor to the staff, sustaining and improving competencies while supporting the residency’s learning environment.

Set in the heart of the state’s most majestic landscapes, the area surrounding this role for an Inpatient Behavioral Health Nursing Director offers weekend escapes to giant sequoias, hiking, river trails, and quick access to national parks. Families appreciate strong schools and affordable neighborhoods, professionals enjoy short commutes and farm-to-table dining, and everyone benefits from year-round sunshine, local festivals, and vibrant arts—plus a cost of living that stretches pay further than coastal metros 🌄.

Supported by competitive compensation and generous benefits, the Inpatient Behavioral Health Nursing Director will make a profound difference for vulnerable patients while gaining growth potential toward titles such as Administrative Director or Vice President. Ready to lead change and elevate psychiatric care? Reach out to a CMC Recruiter to explore how this platform can accelerate your impact and your career trajectory.