Pediatric NP Jobs Overview
Pediatric nurse practitioners (NPs) are healthcare providers known for their comprehensive approach to caring for young patients, which often leads to high levels of satisfaction. The NP workforce is projected to expand significantly, with a 46% growth rate anticipated over the next 10 years. As demand increases, there are even more pediatric NP jobs available across the country.
If you're a pediatric NP looking for a new role, there are many options available to you. You can explore part-time, full-time, contract, temporary, and per diem positions nationwide. Start your search today. You can also check out related roles such as OB-GYN nurse practitioner jobs and mother-baby nurse practitioner jobs.
Pediatric NP Skills, Education, and Certifications
NPs are advanced practice registered nurses who diagnose health conditions, prescribe medication, and order diagnostic testing. To become an NP, you'll need a master of science in nursing (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree from an accredited institution.
An NP’s scope of practice can vary depending on their location. In some states pediatric NPs work under the supervision of a physician, while in other places they can independently operate their own practices.
As a pediatric NP, you’ll specialize in caring for infants, children, and adolescents in outpatient and acute medical facilities. Depending on the care setting you prefer, pursuing one or more of these certifications could improve the way you care for patients and increase your value in the eyes of potential employers:
- Acute Care Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP-AC)
- Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Primary Care (CPNP-PC)
- Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist (PMHS)
- Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (PPCNP-BC)
It’s likely that basic life support (BLS) certification will be needed upon hire; additional credentials such as pediatric advanced life support (PALS) and neonatal resuscitation program (NRP) certification may also be required.
Your soft skills will also be put to use in this role. For example, you’ll need empathy to connect with your young patients and help their families feel heard and understood. It’s also important that you have strong leadership skills, as you may be expected to take the lead in patient care teams.
Resume and Cover Letter for Pediatric NP Jobs
To distinguish yourself from other candidates, put effort into creating a standout pediatric NP resume. Start by closely examining the job listing to identify the specific skills the employer is seeking. For example, job ads for pediatric acute care NP jobs might mention that they want a candidate who can "think critically in high-pressure situations." Make sure to include that exact phrase in your resume.
In your cover letter, you could share a story that showcases your critical thinking abilities. By aligning your experiences with the job's requirements, you can show your attention to detail and demonstrate that you would be a valuable addition to their care team.
Interviewing for NP Pediatric Jobs
Pediatric nurse practitioners need to have strong prioritization skills. During interviews, showcase your ability to assess situations, think quickly, and handle problems efficiently. For additional guidance, reviewing these common pediatric nurse interview questions can give you a better sense of what to expect and help you feel more prepared when interview day arrives.
Pediatric NP Salary
The average annual salary for an NP is about $128,490 per year. Your exact salary will depend on a number of factors, like your experience level, geographic area, care setting, and employer. If you’re looking for a location with higher pay, check out some of the states with the top salaries for NPs:
Ready to Explore the Latest Pediatric NP Jobs?
Check out the latest pediatric NP roles available today. Want even more options? Explore all of the NP jobs on IntelyCare to find openings that align with your skills and preferences.