If you’re a nurse seeking adventure, California is one of the most popular destinations to consider. With its diverse population, vast landscapes, and world-class medical facilities, the Golden State is the perfect place to work as a travel nurse. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about becoming a California travel nurse, from the job requirements to the best places to live and work.
What is a Travel Nurse?
A travel nurse is a registered nurse who works on a short-term contract basis in various hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country. These assignments typically last between 8-26 weeks, but can be longer or shorter depending on the employer’s needs. Travel nurses have the opportunity to work in different environments and gain valuable experience in various specialties.
Why Work as a Travel Nurse in California?
California is one of the most vibrant and diverse states in the US. From the beaches of Santa Monica to the mountains of Lake Tahoe, California has something for everyone. Additionally, the state’s healthcare industry is one of the largest and most advanced in the world, offering travel nurses a wide range of opportunities to gain experience and advance their careers.
How to Become a California Travel Nurse?
Before you can become a travel nurse in California, you must first meet the following requirements:
- Hold an active and unrestricted RN license in any state of the US or its territories.
- Have at least one year of recent nursing experience in your specialty.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam or equivalent nursing exam.
How to Find a Travel Nurse Job in California?
There are several ways to find travel nurse jobs in California, including:
- Working with a travel nurse agency that specializes in California placements.
- Applying directly to hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state.
- Networking with other travel nurses and healthcare professionals in the area.
Top Places to Live and Work as a California Travel Nurse
California is a vast state with many different regions and cities to choose from. Here are some of the top places to live and work as a travel nurse:
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the largest and most diverse cities in the US, offering travel nurses a wide range of opportunities. Some of the top hospitals to consider in LA include UCLA Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and Providence Saint John’s Health Center.
San Francisco
San Francisco is known for its scenic beauty, cultural diversity, and innovative healthcare industry. Top hospitals to consider in the Bay Area include UCSF Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, and Sutter Health’s California Pacific Medical Center.
San Diego
San Diego is a bustling city with a laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and a thriving healthcare industry. Some of the top hospitals to consider in San Diego include Sharp Memorial Hospital, Scripps Mercy Hospital, and UC San Diego Health.
FAQs
Q: How much do travel nurses make in California? | A: According to Glassdoor, travel nurses in California can earn anywhere from $4,800 to $8,200 per month depending on their specialty, experience, and placement. |
Q: What are the benefits of working as a travel nurse in California? | A: Travel nurses in California enjoy competitive pay, flexible scheduling, healthcare benefits, and the opportunity to explore new places and gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings. |
Q: What specialties are in high demand for travel nurses in California? | A: Some of the most in-demand specialties for travel nurses in California include ICU, ER, OR, L&D, and telemetry. |
Q: How long are travel nurse assignments in California? | A: Travel nurse assignments in California typically last between 8-26 weeks, but can be longer or shorter depending on the employer’s needs. |
Q: Is it expensive to live in California as a travel nurse? | A: California is known for its high cost of living, particularly in larger cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. However, travel nurses typically receive housing stipends or free housing from their employers, which can help offset the cost of living. |
Conclusion
Becoming a travel nurse in California can be an exciting and rewarding career move. With its diverse population, stunning landscapes, and world-class medical facilities, California offers travel nurses a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience and explore new places. With the right qualifications and a sense of adventure, you can become a successful California travel nurse and take advantage of everything this amazing state has to offer.