Are you a registered nurse (RN) looking for travel opportunities in California? With its diverse geography, culture, and healthcare landscape, the Golden State offers plenty of options for RNs seeking temporary assignments or permanent relocation. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about travel RN jobs in California, including:
What are travel RN jobs?
Travel RN jobs are temporary nursing assignments that can last anywhere from several weeks to several months. These assignments are typically offered by healthcare staffing agencies that work with hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare organizations across the country. Travel RNs are expected to perform the same duties and responsibilities as regular RNs, but they get to experience new environments, meet new people, and explore different parts of the country while earning a competitive salary.
Why work as a travel RN in California?
California is one of the most popular destinations for travel RNs, and for good reason. Here are just a few of the benefits of working as a travel RN in California:
- High demand: California has a large and diverse population, which means there is always a need for healthcare professionals, including RNs. This can translate into more job opportunities and higher pay rates.
- Competitive pay: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs in California earn some of the highest salaries in the country, with an average annual wage of $113,240.
- Varied geography: From the beaches of San Diego to the mountains of Yosemite, California offers a wide range of landscapes and climates to explore.
- Top-notch healthcare facilities: California has some of the most renowned hospitals and medical centers in the world, which means travel RNs can gain valuable experience and training.
What types of travel RN jobs are available in California?
Travel RN jobs are available in many specialties and settings in California. Some of the most common types of travel RN jobs include:
- Medical-surgical: These RNs work in acute care settings, such as hospitals, and care for patients with a variety of medical conditions.
- Emergency: ER RNs work in fast-paced environments and treat patients with urgent and life-threatening conditions.
- Critical care: ICU RNs work in intensive care units and care for patients who are critically ill or injured.
- Pediatrics: Pediatric RNs work with children and adolescents in various settings, from hospitals to schools to clinics.
- Travel home health: These RNs travel to patients’ homes to provide care and support for individuals who need assistance with activities of daily living.
What are the requirements for travel RN jobs in California?
To work as a travel RN in California, you must be a licensed registered nurse in good standing and meet the following requirements:
- Experience: Most travel RN jobs require at least one year of recent experience in your specialty.
- Education: You must have at least an associate’s degree in nursing and be able to provide proof of your education.
- Credentials: Depending on your specialty, you may need additional certifications or credentials, such as ACLS, PALS, or TNCC.
- Background check: You will need to pass a criminal background check and drug test to be considered for most travel RN jobs.
- References: You will need to provide professional references who can vouch for your skills and experience as an RN.
How do I find travel RN jobs in California?
There are several ways to find travel RN jobs in California:
- Work with a staffing agency: Healthcare staffing agencies specialize in matching travel RNs with temporary assignments that fit their skills, interests, and preferences. You can search for travel RN jobs in California on the agency’s website, submit your application and resume, and work with a recruiter to find the right assignment.
- Search online job boards: Websites like Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor allow you to search for travel RN jobs in California by location, specialty, and salary range.
- Visit hospital websites: Many hospitals and healthcare organizations in California have job boards on their websites where you can search for travel RN jobs and apply directly.
Conclusion
Travel RN jobs in California offer RNs the opportunity to experience new environments, meet new people, and advance their careers while earning competitive salaries. With its high demand, varied geography, and top-notch healthcare facilities, California is an ideal destination for travel RNs who want to explore the West Coast.
Resource | Link |
---|---|
California Board of Registered Nursing | https://www.rn.ca.gov/ |
American Traveler Staffing Agency | https://www.americantraveler.com/travel-nursing-jobs/california |
NurseFly job board | https://www.nursefly.com/travel-nursing-jobs-in-california |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for travel RNs in California?
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for travel RNs in California is $104,969 per year, as of August 2021.
Do travel RNs get benefits?
Most travel RNs receive comprehensive benefits packages that include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) plans, and paid time off. Some staffing agencies also offer housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and bonuses.
Can travel RNs bring their families with them on assignments?
Yes, many travel RNs bring their families with them on assignments. Some staffing agencies offer family-friendly housing options, and some even cover the cost of dependent care.
How long do travel RN assignments typically last?
Travel RN assignments can last anywhere from 4-13 weeks, with some lasting up to 26 weeks or more. The length of the assignment depends on the needs of the healthcare facility and the preferences of the travel RN.
Can travel RNs extend their assignments?
Yes, many travel RNs have the option to extend their assignments if they wish. This depends on the needs of the healthcare facility and the availability of the travel RN.
Do travel RNs need to have a California nursing license?
Yes, travel RNs who work in California need to have a California nursing license. The process for obtaining a California nursing license is similar to that of other states, and typically involves submitting an application, providing proof of education and credentials, and passing a background check and NCLEX exam.