What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Nursing (DON) position at Legacy Retirement Communities?
Legacy Retirement Communities is committed to making care personal—for the residents who call our communities home and for the people who work here. Since 1995, we’ve remained family-owned, guided by integrity, teamwork, and respect. We believe when employees feel supported, trusted, and encouraged to grow, they provide the kind of care that truly makes a difference.
At Legacy, you’ll find a workplace that values professionalism, belonging, and meaningful relationships—not just task completion.
The Role
As Director of Nursing, you’ll step into a leadership role that is both steady and people-centered—guiding a team, supporting residents and families, and helping ensure care feels thoughtful, responsive, and personal each day.
This role is responsible for the overall well-being of residents in both Assisted Living and Independent Living, while leading and supporting the Care Staff. This position blends clinical oversight with relationship-centered leadership—ensuring care remains consistent with Legacy’s values, while meeting all state and federal requirements.
What Your Days Will Involve
You’ll lead with both structure and heart, including:
• Hiring, mentoring, and supporting Direct Care staff
• Creating and managing staffing schedules to ensure consistent care
• Overseeing resident assessments, care planning, and service adjustments
• Monitoring quality of care and guiding improvements when needed
• Supporting families and encouraging meaningful involvement
• Collaborating with physicians, social workers, and care partners
• Overseeing medication management and regulatory compliance
• Managing department budgets and conducting monthly variance reviews
• Supporting ongoing staff training and development
• Working closely with the Executive Director and clinical leadership
What We’re Looking For
• Licensed Nurse (LPN or RN) in Nebraska, in good standing
• CPR certification, or willingness to obtain prior to starting
• Experience working with older adults
• 3–5 years of leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Comfortable using computers and everyday workplace technology
• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills
• Ability to lead with both confidence and empathy
• Comfortable navigating both routine and unexpected situations
• Able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays as needed
• Able to safely lift up to 25 pounds and perform the physical aspects of the role, including standing, walking, bending, reaching, and assisting residents as needed
• Comfortable working with and relating to a wide range of personalities, including residents, families, and team members
Why This Role Matters
Care needs change—sometimes gradually, sometimes all at once. At Legacy, our role is to adjust alongside each person, offering the right level of support while protecting dignity, independence, and identity.
As Director of Nursing, you help make that possible—not just through systems and oversight, but through presence, consistency, and the way you lead your team.
Benefits
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Supportive, approachable leadership
• A respectful, mission-driven workplace
Legacy Retirement Communities is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law