Director of Nursing (Emergency Center and Trauma)

The Director provides leadership for a pediatric Emergency Center consisting of 13 beds, including dedicated trauma resuscitation and forensic treatment rooms. This leader will oversee emergency operations during an exciting period of growth as the organization advances toward Level III Trauma designation while partnering closely with a Level IV NICU to support high-acuity patient care.

Responsible for the intersection of workforce strategy, clinical excellence, and fiscal stewardship, the Nursing Director ensures that unit-level operations, patient outcomes, and team engagement are aligned with organizational priorities and Texas Children’s strategic vision. In partnership with physician leaders and interdisciplinary teams, this role drives operational excellence, advances quality initiatives, and cultivates an environment where patients, families, and team members thrive.

• Partner with staff, medical leadership, and department leaders to ensure clinical excellence within a family-centered care environment, utilizing data, reports, and performance metrics to identify trends and develop action plans.
• Serve as a collaborative partner with the Medical Director and healthcare provider teams to ensure effective communication, alignment, and achievement of departmental goals.
• Facilitate collaboration and cooperation among diverse groups, disciplines, and stakeholders to achieve desired outcomes and advance patient care excellence.

• Lead and support staff participation in the Quality Outcomes Program and unit-based quality initiatives to achieve exemplary clinical outcomes and continuous improvement.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and evidence-based practice that enhances patient and family experiences.

• Demonstrate strong fiscal accountability through the effective management and justification of personnel, equipment, supplies, and capital resources.
• Ensure operational decisions support both quality outcomes and financial sustainability.
• Participate in the budget process for departments, setting targets and goals in partnership with division leadership in alignment with campus strategic initiatives.

• Commit to the ongoing professional development of self, unit leadership, and staff to support engagement, succession planning, and career growth.
• Foster an inclusive and supportive environment that reflects Texas Children’s HEART values and promotes team member excellence.

The statements listed above are intended to describe the essential responsibilities performed by individuals assigned to this role and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities.

• Complete timely performance appraisals for direct reports.
• Conduct appropriate investigations and follow-up on patient and team member concerns.
• Develop and modify job descriptions as necessary.
• Ensure new staff complete hospital and departmental orientation within established timelines.
• Prepare and submit annual operating and capital budgets.
• Report departmental performance and outcomes on a monthly basis.
• Submit performance planning documents, action plans, and department goals.
• Maintain readiness for accreditation and regulatory requirements, including Joint Commission standards, while collaborating across departments to ensure organizational compliance.

• Quality improvement methodologies and patient care delivery models
• Budgeting and financial management principles
• Staff development and performance management
• Word processing and spreadsheet applications
• Computer proficiency and data analysis skills
• Ability to improve the quality of nursing care and patient outcomes

• Candidates must possess both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, with at least one degree in Nursing. A Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field is acceptable only if the candidate holds a Master’s degree in Nursing.

• Five (5) years of progressive management and leadership experience in healthcare or nursing operations (Required)
• Experience within Emergency, Transport, or Trauma service lines (Preferred)

• Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)
• Master’s Degree in Nursing, Business, or a healthcare-related field

• Current RN licensure through the Texas Board of Nursing or Nursing Licensure Compact
• Magnet recognized certification , required within one year of entering role and tracked/maintained by Nursing Operations (Required)