Position Summary
The Administrator in Training (AIT) is responsible for participating in a structured training program designed to prepare the individual for licensure and future service as a Nursing Home Administrator. Under the guidance and supervision of the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, the AIT gains comprehensive knowledge and practical experience in all aspects of skilled nursing facility operations, including resident care services, regulatory compliance, financial management, human resources, customer service, quality assurance, and facility leadership.
The AIT works closely with department managers and interdisciplinary teams to develop the competencies required to effectively manage a skilled nursing facility while ensuring the highest standards of resident care, safety, and regulatory compliance.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Administrative Leadership
Participate in all phases of the Administrator-in-Training Program as established by state regulations and facility requirements.
Shadow and assist the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator in daily operational activities.
Develop knowledge of nursing facility operations, policies, procedures, and management systems.
Attend management meetings, department head meetings, quality assurance meetings, and family council meetings.
Assist with strategic planning initiatives and operational improvement projects.
Regulatory Compliance
Learn and maintain knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations governing skilled nursing facilities.
Participate in facility surveys, audits, and inspections.
Assist with policy development, implementation, and compliance monitoring.
Support efforts to maintain survey readiness and ensure adherence to CMS and state guidelines.
Resident Care and Quality Services
Gain understanding of clinical operations, including nursing, rehabilitation, dietary, social services, activities, and infection prevention.
Participate in resident care conferences and interdisciplinary team meetings.
Support quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI) initiatives.
Monitor resident satisfaction and assist in developing service improvement plans.
Financial Management
Learn budgeting processes, financial reporting, accounts receivable, payroll, and census management.
Assist with cost-control measures while maintaining quality resident care.
Analyze operational and financial data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
Human Resources
Participate in recruitment, onboarding, employee engagement, and retention activities.
Learn workforce management practices, including scheduling, labor management, and performance evaluations.
Assist with employee relations and leadership development initiatives.
Promote a positive and collaborative workplace culture.
Customer Service and Community Relations
Foster positive relationships with residents, families, staff, healthcare professionals, and community partners.
Address questions or concerns in a timely and professional manner.
Participate in community outreach and marketing activities.
Promote the facility's mission, vision, and values.
Safety and Risk Management
Assist with emergency preparedness and disaster planning activities.
Support infection prevention and control initiatives.
Participate in safety rounds and risk management programs.
Ensure compliance with workplace safety standards and facility policies.
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's degree required.
Degree in Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, Public Health, Gerontology, Long-Term Care Administration, or related field preferred.
Licensure/Certification
Must meet state requirements for participation in an Administrator in Training (AIT) Program.
Must be eligible to sit for state Nursing Home Administrator licensure examination.
NAB (National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards) certification eligibility preferred, where applicable.
Experience
Previous healthcare, long-term care, rehabilitation, or management experience preferred.
Internship or leadership experience in healthcare settings is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Strong leadership potential and professional maturity.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
Knowledge of healthcare regulations and long-term care principles preferred.
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Ability to analyze data and solve complex problems.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and healthcare management software.
Ability to work effectively with residents, families, staff, and regulatory agencies.
Physical Requirements
Ability to move throughout the facility regularly.
Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.
Ability to work extended hours as needed to support facility operations.
Working Conditions
Skilled nursing and long-term care environment.
Exposure to residents with varying medical conditions and infectious diseases.
May require occasional evening, weekend, and holiday work.
Participation in emergency response activities as needed.