Are you a registered nurse itching to explore new horizons? Do you want to take your nursing career to the next level while seeing different parts of the country? If so, becoming a travel nurse in New Jersey might be just the thing for you.
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about travel nursing in the Garden State. From requirements to salary, benefits, and job outlook, we got you covered. Let’s get started!
What is Travel Nursing?
Travel nursing is a unique nursing specialty that involves temporary assignments in various healthcare settings across the US. Travel nurses are registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs) who work as contractors for staffing agencies.
As a travel nurse, you will be assigned to different hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities for a specific period, typically 8 to 26 weeks. You will provide patient care while helping your host facility address staffing shortages or seasonal demands.
Why Consider Travel Nursing in NJ?
New Jersey is a great destination for travel nurses who want to experience diverse cultures, natural beauty, and exciting entertainment. Known as the Garden State, New Jersey offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, beachcombing, and skiing. You can also visit iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Atlantic City Boardwalk.
In terms of nursing, New Jersey has a high demand for qualified nurses due to its aging population and advanced healthcare services. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses in New Jersey earn an average hourly wage of $39.40, which is higher than the national average of $36.22.
What are the Requirements for Travel Nursing in NJ?
To become a travel nurse in New Jersey, you must meet certain qualifications and certifications. Here are the basic requirements:
Requirements | Description |
Active nursing license | You must have a valid RN or LPN license in New Jersey or a Compact State. |
Minimum experience | You should have at least one year of recent nursing experience in your specialty. |
Certifications | You may need to have additional certifications such as ACLS, BLS, PALS, TNCC depending on your specialty and host facility. |
Background check | You must pass a criminal background check and drug screening. |
How to Find Travel Nurse Jobs in NJ?
One of the advantages of travel nursing is that you have access to a wide range of job opportunities through staffing agencies. These agencies work with various healthcare facilities in New Jersey and other states to fill their staffing needs.
To find travel nurse jobs in NJ, you can start by researching reputable staffing agencies that offer assignments in the state. Some of the top-rated agencies in New Jersey are:
- American Mobile Healthcare
- Cirrus Medical Staffing
- Travel Nurse Across America
- Medical Solutions
- NurseFly
What are the Benefits of Travel Nursing in NJ?
Travel nursing offers numerous benefits beyond a competitive salary. Here are some of the advantages of travel nursing in New Jersey:
- Flexible schedule: You can choose your assignments and work as much or as little as you want.
- Professional growth: You can enhance your nursing skills and knowledge by working in different settings and with diverse patient populations.
- Travel and housing: Most staffing agencies offer travel and housing allowances, so you don’t have to worry about accommodation and transportation expenses.
- Bonuses and perks: Some agencies offer sign-on bonuses, referral bonuses, and other incentives to attract and retain travel nurses.
- Healthcare benefits: Many agencies provide healthcare insurance, dental, and vision coverage to their travel nurses.
What is the Job Outlook for Travel Nursing in NJ?
The demand for travel nurses in New Jersey is expected to grow in the coming years due to several factors such as:
- The aging population: New Jersey has one of the highest percentages of older adults in the US, which creates a demand for geriatric care.
- The nursing shortage: Like many states, New Jersey is facing a shortage of qualified nurses, which increases the need for travel nurses.
- The pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on healthcare facilities, and travel nurses are needed to fill the gaps and support frontline workers.
According to the BLS, the employment of registered nurses in New Jersey is projected to grow by 5% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the national average. This means that travel nurses will have plenty of job opportunities and a stable career outlook in New Jersey.
Conclusion
If you are a registered nurse looking for an exciting and rewarding career, travel nursing in New Jersey might be the perfect fit for you. With its rich history, natural beauty, and high-quality healthcare services, New Jersey offers a unique experience for travel nurses who want to explore new places while making a difference in patients’ lives.
By meeting the requirements, finding a reputable agency, and embracing the benefits of travel nursing, you can embark on a fulfilling journey that will take you to new heights of personal and professional growth. Good luck!
Meta Description: | Become a travel nurse in NJ and explore the Garden State’s rich history, natural beauty, and high-quality healthcare services. Learn about the requirements, salary, benefits, and job outlook for travel nurses in New Jersey. |
Meta Keywords: | travel nurse nj, travel nursing, new jersey, nursing career, healthcare, staffing agencies, nursing shortage, geriatric care, pandemic, job opportunities |