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Dementia Program Director Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Dementia Program Director information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$46.1K

$53.3K

$64.4K

How much do dementia program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for dementia program director in Rio Rancho, NM is $53,261.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $56,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Dementia Program Director do?

A Dementia Program Director oversees the planning, development, and implementation of programs designed to support individuals living with dementia and their families. They manage staff, ensure regulatory compliance, and coordinate activities that promote cognitive engagement and quality of life for residents. Additionally, they provide education and training to caregivers and staff, work with healthcare teams, and ensure care plans meet best practice standards for dementia care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dementia Program Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dementia Program Director, you need expertise in dementia care, program development, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a background in nursing, social work, or healthcare administration. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), care planning software, and certifications such as Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) are typically required. Outstanding leadership, communication, and empathy are essential soft skills for leading teams and supporting patients and families. These competencies ensure the delivery of high-quality, person-centered care and effective program management in dementia care settings.

What are some common challenges a Dementia Program Director may face when implementing new care initiatives?

As a Dementia Program Director, one of the main challenges is ensuring that new care initiatives are tailored to meet the evolving needs of residents while also securing buy-in from staff and family members. Balancing regulatory compliance, budget constraints, and the need for ongoing staff training can also be demanding. Additionally, adapting programs to address varying stages of dementia and maintaining a supportive, compassionate environment for both residents and caregivers are ongoing considerations. Effective communication, patience, and flexibility are essential to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Dementia Program Director vs Memory Care Coordinator?

AspectDementia Program DirectorMemory Care Coordinator
CredentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., Alzheimer's Association certifications), experience in dementia careSimilar certifications, often with focus on memory support and patient engagement
Work EnvironmentLeads programs in senior living communities, healthcare facilities, or nonprofit organizationsWorks closely with residents and families in memory care units or facilities
Employer & IndustrySenior care providers, healthcare organizations, nonprofitsMemory care facilities, assisted living communities, healthcare providers

The main difference is that the Dementia Program Director oversees entire dementia care programs, including staff management and program development, while the Memory Care Coordinator focuses on direct resident support and daily care within memory care units. Both roles require specialized knowledge of dementia, but the Program Director has broader administrative responsibilities.

What job categories do people searching Dementia Program Director jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Dementia Program Director jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
Infographic showing various Dementia Program Director job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,261 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Health and Wellness Director/RN/LPN

Montebello On Academy

Albuquerque, NM โ€ข On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

The Montebello on Academy: Health and Wellness Director/RN/LPN - Senior Living Community

We are seeking a Health and Wellness Director/RN/LPN to showcase their leadership skills while maintaining excellent relationships and providing great care for our residents at our large senior living community!ย  In this role, you would be responsible for the overall operations of the wellness department in an assisted living facility.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary: $80,000 - $95,000 (DOE)
  • Benefits include medical, dental, and vision
  • A generous Paid Time Off program
  • 401k
  • Aย growing company with opportunities for advancement
  • Company-sponsored training, tuition reimbursement, and other learning opportunities

Job Description

  • Oversight and responsibility for the daily operations of our assisted living and memory care departments
  • Hiring, training, and development of the care team
  • Provide leadership and direction to the management team consisting of the Memory Care Director, Care Coordinator, administrators, and nurses.
  • Work directly with residents to evaluate needs and services to accurately assess, communicate and document resident status on the electronic care system
  • Oversight of med techs and delegation of nurse duties to unlicensed personnel
  • Other leadership duties as needed

Qualifications

  • Love for seniors!
  • Strong leadership skills in developing strong care teams and leading them to great outcomes.
  • Current RN license
  • Experience in Assisted Living, Geriatric Nursing, Gerontology, and/or Dementia Care
  • Demonstrated ability in budgeting and cost control
  • Knowledge of how to develop and utilize service plans, medication management systems, infection control practices, and safety procedures
  • Skills in promoting teamwork, leadership, team member empowerment, and responsiveness to residents"

Who We Are

Our supreme goal is to do and be the best in all we undertake, and to provide a Stellar life for our residents, their families, and our employees." - Evrett Benton, CEO

Stellar Senior Living is a premier assisted living provider in the Western United States. Founded in 2012, we have experienced consistent growth, adding senior living communities to our family each year. We continue to grow and are looking for top talent to join our team and continue the journey with us.

If you are the right candidate, then we definitely want to hear from you!ย 

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.