Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Jobs

CNA Jobs Overview

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are crucial members of any healthcare team in both acute and post-acute settings. These trained professionals go by different names in different states:

• Licensed nursing assistant (LNA): New Hampshire, Vermont
• State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA): Ohio
• State Registered Nursing Assistant (SRNA): Kentucky

CNA jobs are performed under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Nursing assistants are responsible for hands-on care of patients including helping with daily living activities, checking vital signs, and in some cases, administering the medications that are important to the health and recovery of their patients.

There are more than 1 million people working as CNAs in the United States, and with a job outlook of 4% in the next 10 years, still more are needed. CNA jobs can be physically as well as emotionally demanding, but also incredibly rewarding for those who want direct interaction with patients. You can find many nursing assistant jobs in locations across the country, and in all settings, on IntelyCare’s job board.

CNA Education and Skills

To become a CNA, you’ll start by earning a high school degree or GED. Each state has different requirements, but in general the next step is completing a nurse assistant training program that is approved by your state nursing board. These programs are available from community colleges, hospitals, or even online. The final step is to pass the CNA certification exam. Each state’s test is a bit different, but it can include demonstrations of skills learned, plus written and sometimes oral sections.

During all your education, remember that you’ll also want to learn the soft skills that will best help your patients. In many CNA job descriptions, employers often like the job candidates to be team players, have good attention to detail, be patient and compassionate, and be able to communicate clearly with patients, other caregivers, and the patient’s family.

CNA Resume and Cover Letter

Even if you are an experienced nursing professional, you’ll want to make sure your CNA resume and cover letter are both up to date and can display your skills and experience to their best advantage. Make sure your resume reflects the skills listed in the job posting. This helps show the hiring manager that you’ve got what they’re looking for. In your cover letter, demonstrate your passion for the role and why you’re interested in a job with that particular facility.

Interviewing for Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs

Just like other professions, interviews for CNA jobs can make you a little nervous. But taking some time to go over common CNA interview questions and answers can help you feel more prepared. Remember to research the company, share your enthusiasm for patient care, and just be your honest self.

Salary and Benefits for a CNA Job

The average annual CNA salary is $36,220, but that number can vary not just by state, but also by the need for nursing professionals in those states. For instance, the annual salaries for CNAs in Alaska and Vermont are higher than in Texas or Florida.

In addition to salary, don’t forget to investigate what benefits and perks are available to you. Many employers will offer a wide range including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement accounts, bonuses, discount programs, paid time off, and even free company merch.

Ways of Working

There are a lot of ways to work as a CNA. In addition to working full-time or part-time in a hospital setting, you can work on contract or on a per diem basis, which allows you to pick up shifts as you choose. There are even opportunities for you to work as a traveling CNA. You may also consider whether you want to work in post-acute care at an assisted living or skilled nursing facility where you can really get to know your patients.

Healthcare Companies

Not only do nursing assistant jobs come in a variety of types, but there are also many different employers to consider as well. You may want to work for an academically driven healthcare center like Cedars-Sinai, a large care system like Select Medical or the Veterans Health Administration (VA), a group of long-term care communities like Sunrise Senior Living — or even as a per diem CNA at a wide range of facilities with IntelyCare.

Find Fulfilling Work

There are so many types of CNA jobs available these days that it can be a hassle to look through all of them. Need help? Find out how IntelyCare can match you with the latest nursing assistant jobs.