DIRECTOR OF NURSING en U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC)

RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Functions

1. Medical Care and Participant Welfare

• Ensure the safety, security, hygiene, and emotional well-being of participants, meeting or exceeding the standards typically expected of a responsible and caring parent.
• Administer medications accurately and timely, following prescribed guidelines and parental instructions.
• Provide first aid services to trainees, guests, and employees, adhering to industry and professional standards.
• Evaluate and examine individuals with physical symptoms, ensuring a high level of care in accordance with professional standards.
• Refer individuals with medical conditions requiring specialized treatment to appropriate hospital facilities.
• Communicate clearly with parents regarding the medical condition of trainees who require treatment, ensuring they are well-informed.
• Notify parents promptly in the event of a trainee’s injury, illness, or medical discharge, and serve as a liaison between parents and management regarding health care matters.
• Train USSRC staff on relevant health issues, including communicable diseases, first aid, and emergency procedures (CodeMAS).
• Address parental questions and concerns promptly, ensuring they understand how their child’s medical condition may impact their participation in SPACECAMP®.
• Ensure the nursing office is stocked with necessary supplies for efficient daily operation.
• Comply with all legal and professional standards regarding the storage and handling of medicines and prescriptions.
• Coordinate medication check-ins and check-outs with group leaders according to school policies.
• Arrange transportation for trainees requiring medical care at hospital facilities, ensuring prompt and efficient service.
• Provide adequate medical coverage, including ambulance services, for USSRC special events.
• Ensure the timely and accurate purchase of medicines and prescriptions as needed.
• Develop and review individual health care plans for trainees, working closely with parents to ensure all health needs are met.

1. Administration

• Ensure 504 compliance by coordinating health-related matters with appropriate departments and directors.
• Prepare and distribute documentation such as medical records, accident reports, and exam results in an accurate and timely manner.
• Process incoming medical forms and promptly inform relevant departments of any special requests or health needs.
• Maintain the confidentiality of medical records and all related documentation in line with industry standards.
• Develop and distribute information sheets that detail appropriate treatments for specific medical conditions.
• Collaborate with the Executive Team and CEO to provide input on responses to public health concerns and USSRC policy decisions.
• Review pharmacy billing statements for accuracy and resolve any discrepancies.
• Process billing information for prescriptions accurately and promptly.
• Meet or exceed the expectations of the Vice President of Human Resource and USSRC Executive Team by completing assigned tasks in a timely and accurate manner.

1. Nursing Organization and Staffing

• Assist the Vice President of Human Resource in preparing and managing the annual nursing budget for the assigned area.
• Support USSRC’s standards for staff recruitment, hiring, orientation, evaluation, and discipline within the nursing department.
• Ensure nursing staff receive relevant, timely, and appropriate training to maintain a high standard of care.
• Ensure nursing staff comply with all USSRC policies, procedures, and departmental guidelines.
• Oversee the completion of tasks assigned to nursing staff, ensuring they are done accurately and on time.
• Ensure timely completion and distribution of payroll documentation for nursing staff.
• Communicate regularly with nursing staff about operational and corporate information, ensuring they are well-informed.
• Develop staffing schedules that optimize productivity while meeting contractual obligations.
• Ensure the timely and accurate completion of annual performance evaluations for nursing staff.
• Work with the Vice President of Human Resource to develop and implement nursing department policies and procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes

Level of Supervision: The Nursing Director will ensure adherence to policies and laws while guiding staff to align with the Center's mission. The candidate will monitor performance, provide coaching and feedback, and complete staff evaluations and documentation on time. As a role model, the candidate will demonstrate a strong work ethic and professionalism, setting the standard for staff behavior.

Travel Required: No

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Nursing
• Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification preferred.
• Valid Alabama Nursing License

Experience

• At least 5 years of clinical nursing experience, specializing in pediatric and adolescent care
• A minimum of 5 years in a supervisory role
• Alternatively, an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage staff, budgets, and scheduling
• Proficient with 101-key keyboard
• Proficient in DOS and Windows operating systems, with basic knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Physical Requirements

• This position requires the ability to walk and climb stairs to access various buildings and departments, as well as the ability to sit for extended periods (4-6 hours). Physical tasks also include carrying and lifting boxes or supplies up to 30 lbs. at waist height, as well as bending and kneeling to store and retrieve supplies. The role also requires the use of sight, reading, feeling, and wrist movements for administering medications, providing first aid, operating a computer terminal, and assessing patient conditions. Additionally, strong communication skills are essential, including talking and hearing to effectively instruct employees and assist guests, trainees, and employees in person or over the phone.

Eligibility Qualifications

• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Environmental Factors

• This position is based in a climate-controlled clinical environment and involves working in a confined space with other employees. The role requires frequent interaction with small children, parents, guests, and employees, making effective interpersonal skills critical. The work environment may also involve exposure to medical situations, including minor injuries, illness, and other healthcare needs, requiring the ability to respond calmly and effectively. Additionally, the position may require occasional travel between different areas of the facility or off-site locations.

Expected Hours of Work: M-F 8a-5p