Nonprofit Medical Program Director; CA Registered Nurse Program Leadership

Are you an experienced RN with a passion for leadership and a desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of children?

At Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, our mission goes beyond medical care. Since 1991, our nonprofit organization has transformed the lives of infants, children, and teens by providing reconstructive surgeries and related medical care services at absolutely no cost to their families. Our work is made possible by dedicated medical professionals, compassionate volunteers, and a team committed to giving every child the opportunity for a brighter future.

We're seeking an experienced nurse leader who is passionate about making an impact. As our Medical Program Director (RN), you'll combine your clinical expertise with strategic leadership, team development, and program oversight to help expand our reach and transform more lives.

Work Location: This is a full-time, in-person position based at our office in Carlsbad, California, requiring on-site attendance five days per week. Fully remote work arrangements are not available for this role.

Position Overview: The Medical Program Director (RN) provides leadership and operational oversight for the Medical Department (Clinic). This role combines strong nursing expertise, program management, and team leadership to ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care and successful surgical programming. The Director serves as a key liaison between patients, families, physicians, volunteers, and hospital partners, ensuring exceptional communication, coordination, and patient outcomes.

The Director is responsible for managing Surgery Weekends, supervising staff and volunteers, supporting outreach activities, and fostering a collaborative, patient-centered environment.

Leadership and Management

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the Medical Department to ensure efficient and effective healthcare services.
• Serve as a strong leader, mentor, and resource for medical staff, volunteers, and administrative team members.
• Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, patient safety, and service excellence.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance and best practices.
• Manage healthcare programs and services associated with Rady Children's Hospital and collaborate closely with hospital coordinators.

Clinical and Patient Care Responsibilities

• Serve as a Registered Nurse leader and advocate for patient-centered care.
• Act as a liaison between patients, families, surgeons, physicians, and care teams to facilitate communication and coordination.
• Support patient consultations, evaluations, diagnostic testing, surgeries, laser treatments, speech therapy, and dental treatment scheduling.
• Provide clinical guidance and ensure continuity of care throughout the patient journey.
• Participate in patient outreach events and assist with patient assessments when appropriate.

Operational Oversight

• Manage and coordinate Surgery Weekends, ensuring staffing, scheduling, resources, and operational readiness.
• Prepare and maintain cohesive surgery schedules and secure necessary clinical and volunteer resources.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and monitor resources responsibly.
• Plan and facilitate Joint Oversight Committee meetings and Medical Program Committee meetings.
• Oversee staff training and professional development initiatives.

Community Engagement

• Represent the organization in community and professional settings.
• Support patient outreach and education activities that further the mission of Fresh Start Surgical Gifts.
• Build strong relationships with healthcare providers, community partners and volunteers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required;
  Master's degree preferred.
• Current California Registered Nursing (RN) License required.
• Minimum of 5 years of clinical nursing and healthcare leadership experience; nonprofit experience preferred.
• Current CPR certification required; ACLS, PALS, and CNOR certifications preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of healthcare regulations, accreditation standards, and clinical operations.

Personal Attributes

• Demonstrated compassion and commitment to serving underserved populations.
• Excellent relationship-building and conflict-resolution abilities.
• Adaptability and sound decision-making in a dynamic healthcare environment.
• Highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct.

Salary Range: $120,000-$140,000

DISCLAIMER The duties listed above are…