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Dementia Program Director Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

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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 May 29, 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 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 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 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:
Dementia Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dementia Program Director job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,261 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Memory Care Director - Avamere Rio Rancho

Rio Rancho Operations LLC

Rio Rancho, NM

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Memory Care Director

Type: Full-Time, Part-Time
Avamere at Rio Rancho; 1000 Riverview Drive; Rio Rancho, NM 87124

Apply now at: Arete.Jobs

Responsibilities:

  • Plan, develop, organize, implement, evaluate, and direct the day-to-day functions of the Memory Care residents, its programs, and activities.
  • Ensure that all Memory Care residents are assessed prior to and throughout their residency to ensure that the services assessed are delivered.
  • Communicate with residents and family members, organizing care conferences to discuss resident needs.
  • Manage the medication administration on the Memory unit, ensuring proper documentation of all care plans, nurse’s notes and all corresponding documentation for the resident records.
  • Responsible for screening, hiring, training and supervising all staff in the Memory Care Residence. This includes managing performance, conducting timely performance reviews and all training requirements.
  • Assist in preparing an annual operating budget for approval by the Executive Director and allocate the resources to carry out programs and activities of the Memory Care.
  • Participate in state and federal surveys of the facility, reviewing any deficiencies and developing plans of correction.
  • Maintain a good public relations program that serves the best interest of the facility and community alike.
  • Make daily inspections of the Memory Care and ensure that the Memory Care unit and courtyard are maintained.
  • Create and maintain a safety culture, setting an example of good safety, ensure safety expectations are being communicated and all staff are following safety policies and procedures.
  • On call availability required for this position

Qualifications:

  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Preference given to applicants with education, training, or certification in a dementia related field
  • Prefer a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health Administration, Business Administration, or similar coursework preferred, but not required.
  • Knowledge of Assisted Living operational standards and requirements of participation.
  • Must be familiar with the laws, regulations and guidelines governing personnel administration.
  • Able to make independent decisions and work harmoniously with and supervise other personnel.
  • Able to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies and the general public.
  • Create and uphold an atmosphere of warmth, patience, enthusiasm, and a calm and cheerful environment.
  • Maintain confidentiality of all resident care information in accordance with HIPAA guidelines and uphold procedures to ensure all staff are trained and in compliance with this policy.

Benefits:

We believe caring for others starts with caring for our own teams. Our benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and peace of mind—so you can focus on making a difference every day.

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans. Low individual and family deductible. - Benefits eligible at 30+ hours/week.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with discretionary employer match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Premium Pay for Holidays worked, conditions apply
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Canopy: Free, confidential support for mental health, stress, family needs & work/life balance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) options and CERA (Commuter Expense Reimbursement Account)
  • Voluntary & Supplemental Insurance Options: Voluntary Life and AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability, plus Whole Life, Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, and Legal Services.

The company reserves the right to revise the duties set forth in this job description at its discretion.