If you’re a registered nurse with experience in emergency departments and are looking to take your career to the next level, then becoming an ER travel nurse could be the perfect option for you. Not only will you get to travel around the country but you’ll be able to earn some serious money while doing it. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the highest paying ER travel nurse jobs.
What is an ER Travel Nurse?
An ER travel nurse is a registered nurse who travels to different healthcare facilities across the country where they are needed to fill gaps in staffing. As an ER travel nurse, you’ll work in emergency departments and provide care to patients in critical situations. These positions require a high level of experience, skill, and flexibility since you’ll be working in different healthcare settings, often with very little notice.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
As with any nursing position, you’ll need to be a registered nurse with a valid license to practice. Most ER travel nurse jobs require a minimum of two years’ experience in an emergency department. You’ll also need to be comfortable working in high-pressure situations and be able to adapt quickly to new environments.
How Much Can You Earn?
One of the biggest benefits of becoming an ER travel nurse is the potential earnings. ER travel nurses can earn a significantly higher salary than permanent staff nurses. The average hourly rate for an ER travel nurse is between $40 and $80 an hour, depending on the location of the assignment and the level of experience required.
What are the Highest Paying ER Travel Nurse Jobs?
While ER travel nursing jobs in general are high paying, there are some positions that pay even more than others. Here are a few of the highest paying ER travel nurse jobs:
Hospital | Location | Hourly Rate |
---|---|---|
University of California, San Francisco Medical Center | San Francisco, California | $90 – $100 |
New York Presbyterian Hospital | New York, New York | $80 – $90 |
Johns Hopkins Hospital | Baltimore, Maryland | $70 – $80 |
Mayo Clinic | Rochester, Minnesota | $70 – $80 |
What are the Benefits of Being an ER Travel Nurse?
Aside from the high earning potential, ER travel nursing comes with a range of other benefits. These include:
- Flexible schedules that allow you to choose when and where you work
- The opportunity to travel and see different parts of the country
- Experience working in a range of healthcare settings, which can help you to develop new skills and advance your career
- Healthcare benefits and retirement plans
What Are the Downsides?
While there are plenty of benefits to being an ER travel nurse, there are also some downsides to consider. These include:
- The potential for long hours and some work on weekends and holidays
- Being away from family and friends for extended periods of time
- Adjusting to new healthcare settings and protocols can be challenging
Conclusion
If you’re an experienced registered nurse looking to earn a high salary and expand your skill set, then becoming an ER travel nurse is an excellent option. While there are potentially long hours and some downsides to consider, the benefits of higher earnings, flexible schedules, and travel opportunities make this an attractive career choice for many nurses.