Registered Nurse (RN) Jobs

RN Jobs Overview

Nurses aren't just the first line of defense in healthcare, they're also the most prominent. There are nearly 5.2 million registered nurses (RNs) in the United States, and they help make nursing the single largest healthcare profession in the country. RN jobs are in demand in a wide variety of work environments, from hospitals to ambulatory healthcare centers to skilled nursing facilities and beyond.

If you're pursuing an RN job now is a great time to start looking. RN jobs are projected to grow by 6% over the next decade, an increase of about 177,400 jobs. With a growing focus on preventive care, escalating rates of chronic conditions, and the aging baby boomer population, the healthcare landscape is going to continue to rely heavily on RNs and their expertise to deliver quality care. Whether you're searching for openings in acute facilities or post-acute facilities, you'll find the latest jobs for registered nurses right here on IntelyCare.

RN Education and Skills

An RN is a highly skilled role in the nursing profession requiring the ability to think critically, retain information, communicate clearly, and give patients the empathy and care they need through their toughest times.

To begin your path to become a registered nurse, you must earn either an associate degree (ADN) in nursing or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). Note that employers tend to favor candidates with a BSN vs. ADN. Next, you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for an RN license with your state board of nursing.

Nursing is a profession that encourages and even requires lifelong learning. Additional credentialing and continuing education can help you increase your skills and your pay. Obtaining continuing education credits is not simply a way to advance your career, but it’s also necessary to maintain your nursing license. Check your state board of nursing website for requirements unique to your license.

For more insight into what an employer might be looking for, check out our sample job template for an RN.

RN Resume and Cover Letter

Whether you are looking for your first or your 31st position as an RN, you will need to make sure your RN resume and cover letter are both up to date. Take some time to ensure your resume skills and experience reflect the featured requirements in each job posting. Then use your cover letter to expound on the value that you’d bring to the position.

Interviewing for an RN Job

Regardless of your profession, interviews can be a bit nerve-racking. But just taking a little time to go over some common RN interview questions can help you feel more at ease. Focus on listening to not just the question but also the reason behind the question.

Salary and Benefits for Registered Nurse Jobs

The average RN salary in the U.S. is $89,010 per year. Salaries vary not just by geography, but by the need in that geography. That’s why a registered nursing job in Alaska has a higher annual salary than in Illinois or Texas.

Make sure you know the common salary ranges and available job benefits like health, dental, vision, retirement plans, life insurance, bonuses, discounts and subscriptions, and paid time off before you accept your next RN job.

Ways of Working

There are a lot of schedules to choose from when looking for registered nurse jobs. You can opt for full-time, part-time, contract, or per diem positions. Want to work where your skills are needed the most? Check out the latest travel nurse jobs. Technology has even made it possible to pursue remote nursing jobs. Explore the options for all types of schedules you have in mind.

Healthcare Companies

Not only do registered nursing jobs come in a variety of different types, but there is also a variety of employers to consider as well. You can work for major healthcare systems like Cleveland Clinic or Kaiser Permanente; academically driven centers like Yale New Haven Health; a nationwide care system like the VA; or even as a per diem nurse with IntelyCare. As a skilled healthcare professional, you have plenty of job options to choose from.

Work the Way You Want

There are so many types of RN jobs available these days that it can be too time-consuming to sift through them all. Want some help? Find out how IntelyCare can match you with the latest registered nursing jobs in your specialty.