Are you a registered nurse looking to take your career to the next level? Do you enjoy traveling and exploring new places? Then Illinois travel nursing might just be the perfect opportunity for you. With its diverse landscape, bustling cities, and top-notch healthcare facilities, Illinois is a prime location for travel nurses. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about travel nursing in Illinois, including job opportunities, salary expectations, licensing requirements, and more.
What is Travel Nursing?
Travel nursing is a temporary nursing position that allows registered nurses to work in healthcare facilities across the country for a certain period of time. Travel nurses typically work on short-term contracts, ranging from 4 to 13 weeks, and are employed by travel nursing agencies. These agencies provide travel nurses with housing, transportation, and other benefits in addition to their salary. Travel nursing is an excellent way for RNs to gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings, meet new people, and explore new places.
Why Choose Illinois for Travel Nursing?
Illinois is a great state for travel nursing due to its wide range of healthcare facilities, including some of the nation’s top-ranked hospitals. The state offers diverse landscapes, from the urban metropolis of Chicago to the rolling hills of the Shawnee National Forest. The cost of living in Illinois is also relatively low compared to other states on the East and West Coasts. This means that travel nurses can save more money while still enjoying all that Illinois has to offer.
Job Opportunities for Travel Nurses in Illinois
Illinois has a high demand for travel nurses due to its large population and numerous healthcare facilities. Travel nurses can find job opportunities in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Some of the top-ranked hospitals in Illinois include Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Rush University Medical Center, and Loyola University Medical Center. Travel nurses can also find opportunities in rural areas, where the need for healthcare professionals is often greater.
Salary Expectations for Travel Nurses in Illinois
The salary for travel nurses in Illinois varies depending on a few factors, such as the nurse’s level of experience, the specific healthcare facility, and the location. However, the average salary for a travel nurse in Illinois is around $93,000 per year, according to ZipRecruiter. This salary is higher than the national average for registered nurses, which is around $75,000 per year. Travel nurses can also earn additional money through bonuses and incentives offered by their travel nursing agency.
Licensing Requirements for Travel Nurses in Illinois
To work as a travel nurse in Illinois, you must have a valid RN license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). You may also need to obtain a license from the state you will be working in, depending on their specific licensing requirements. Travel nursing agencies can often assist with the licensing process, so be sure to ask your agency for guidance. Additionally, travel nurses are required to have certain vaccinations and health screenings before starting their assignment, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on these requirements.
FAQ
Question | Answer |
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What is the average salary for a travel nurse in Illinois? | The average salary for a travel nurse in Illinois is around $93,000 per year. |
What are some of the top-ranked hospitals in Illinois? | Some of the top-ranked hospitals in Illinois include Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Rush University Medical Center, and Loyola University Medical Center. |
What licensing requirements are needed for travel nurses in Illinois? | Travel nurses in Illinois must have a valid RN license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). |
How long are travel nursing contracts typically? | Travel nursing contracts typically range from 4 to 13 weeks. |
Can travel nurses earn bonuses or incentives? | Yes, travel nurses can earn additional money through bonuses and incentives offered by their travel nursing agency. |