Chief Nursing Officer

Join our Rhinelander, WI Team!

Chief Nursing Officer / Vice President of Patient Care Services

Starting Salary : $225,000 - $266,000 / yr + 20 % target bonus

Requirements to Apply

• Active and current registered nurse license in Wisconsin or Michigan, or compact license
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution is required
• Master’s degree in Nursing, Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, or a related field required
• At least 10 years of experience in the healthcare field
• A minimum of 7 years in progressively responsible leadership roles
• Certification in Healthcare Leadership and / or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree preferred

Transform Rural Healthcare Leadership as Chief Nursing Officer — Join Our Mission-Driven Team in Scenic Rhinelander, WI - $225K+ Bonus Potential

Job Overview

The Vice President of Patient Care Services / Chief Nursing Officer provides strategic leadership for nursing practice and outcomes across clinical settings within their business unit. As part of the executive team, this leader champions interdisciplinary collaboration, quality improvement, workforce planning, and clinical excellence to meet evolving patient and community needs. The role fosters a culture of professional growth, shared decision-making, and high-reliability practices. Responsibilities include driving strategic planning, ensuring nursing perspectives are integrated into organizational goals, and serving as a visible role model for values-based leadership across a large, complex healthcare division.

Key Responsibilities

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will bring a strong foundation in healthcare economics, regulatory compliance, and contemporary models of care. Demonstrated success in leading multi-site nursing operations, advancing clinical quality and safety, and driving strategic initiatives is essential. This leader will foster an inclusive and collaborative culture, build high-performing teams, and promote professional development across all levels of nursing staff. Proven ability to partner effectively with medical staff, engage in system-wide initiatives, and implement scalable best practices will ensure alignment with organizational goals. Experience in rural or community-based settings and the ability to navigate both relationship-driven and metrics-driven environments will position this candidate for success in a complex, multi-facility role.

What are the benefits?

Where?

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Rhinelander offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and vibrant community life. Surrounded by crystal-clear lakes, dense forests, and miles of trails, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Rhinelander boasts a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family. With its unique mix of tranquility and opportunity, Rhinelander is more than just a destination—it’s a place to call home.

Who are we?

Based in Wausau, Wisconsin, this nonprofit, community-focused health system serves northeastern Minnesota, northern and central Wisconsin, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. One of its key facilities is a 73-bed hospital offering a wide range of advanced services, including high-tech surgical care, cutting-edge medical imaging, a state-of-the-art birthing center, comprehensive women’s health, and a 13,000-square-foot cancer center equipped with the latest technology. The system encompasses 18 hospitals and 130 outpatient locations, supported by nearly 14,000 team members, including 1,300 employed physicians and advanced practice providers.