Director of Emergency Department & Short Stay Observation Unit
Grand Junction, Colorado
Community Hospital

Job Opportunity: Director of Emergency Services & Short Stay Observation Unit (ED & SSOU)

Location: Grand Junction, Colorado
Employment Type: Contract (26 weeks)
Work Setting: On-site, Full-Time
Position Type: Interim to Permanent Opportunity

Position Summary

The Director of ED & SSOU provides strategic and operational leadership for the Emergency Department and Short Stay Observation Unit. This role requires a dynamic and compassionate leader who ensures exceptional clinical care, drives quality and safety initiatives, fosters a supportive team culture, and maintains operational efficiency across all shifts.

This is a working leadership role, requiring the Director to be hands-on and able to support clinical staffing when needed. Presence and visibility across all shifts—including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays—is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Emergency Department and Short Stay Observation Unit
• Lead, mentor, and support interdisciplinary teams to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care
• Collaborate with medical staff, nursing leadership, and ancillary departments to meet patient care goals and regulatory compliance
• Monitor and manage budgets, staffing, and resource allocation
• Champion initiatives focused on patient satisfaction, team engagement, and continuous improvement
• Serve as a hands-on clinical leader, stepping in to support staffing and operations as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing or related healthcare field required; Master’s degree preferred
• Active RN license in the State of Colorado (or eligibility for licensure)
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience in emergency services or acute care, with at least 3 years in a leadership role
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification required
• Nurse Executive Board Certification (NEBC), Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN), or equivalent certification preferred
• Strong knowledge of clinical standards, regulatory requirements, and emergency care best practices

Additional Requirements

• On-site leadership position
• Must be present, visible, and available to support all shifts
• Occasional direct clinical support may be required during staffing shortages

Contract Length: Approximately 26 weeks (about 6 months)