Assistant Chief Nursing Officer (ACNO)

UHS • Lexington, KY

6d • Onsite

About The Position

As the only free-standing psychiatric hospital in the Central Kentucky area, The Ridge Behavioral Health System is a 110-bed hospital located in Lexington, KY. The Ridge provides psychiatric and substance use disorder treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. The Ridge offers Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient Programs, Individual Counseling, as well as Medication Management for all ages. We have provided behavioral health services to over 92 Kentucky counties for more than 39 years. This is a full-time, day shift position.

Requirements

• BSN required.
• Current RN Licensure
• Three years employment as an RN in a psychiatric setting in positions of progressive responsibility and leadership.
• At least two years in a supervisory and/or administrative role.

Nice To Haves

• MSN preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintains 24/7 operational accountability for assigned units, including participation in on-call rotation for weekends and holidays.
• Serves as administrative authority in the absence of the CNO, addressing operational and clinical concerns as needed.
• Ensures program adherence to established schedules and regulatory expectations.
• Oversees staffing operations by determining staffing needs, core staffing requirements, and appropriate FTE allocation based on patient acuity and census.
• Evaluates needs for additional staffing (e.g., 1:1 observation) and collaborates daily with nursing leadership to ensure cost-effective staffing coverage across all shifts.
• Provides direct supervision and leadership to nursing staff, including RN Supervisors and other assigned personnel.
• Conducts performance evaluations, probationary reviews, and ongoing feedback.
• Addresses employee relations issues, including coaching, counseling, and disciplinary action when necessary.
• Promotes staff engagement, morale, and a culture of accountability, professionalism, and high-quality patient care.
• Participates in recruitment, interviewing, and onboarding processes.

Benefits

• Challenging and rewarding work environment with the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others
• Career development opportunities within UHS and its 300+ Subsidiaries
• Competitive Compensation & Generous Paid Time Off
• Excellent Medical, Dental, Vision and Prescription Drug Plans
• 401(K) with company match and discounted stock plan
• Tuition Reimbursement Program, Retention Bonus Program, and Referral Bonus Program
• Free parking on premises
• Free meal with each shift

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager