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Associate Rn Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RN New Graduate

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$32.73/hr

Medical Associates Primary Nurse (CMA, LPN, or RN) - Internal Medicin Medical Associates CRNA - Earn $306k+, $60k sign-on bonus, & Grea Medical Associates Neonatal Nurse Practitioner - Dubuque, IA ...

Associate' degree in nursing required. Bachelor' degree preferred. * Must be currently licensed as a Registered Nurse in the State of Wisconsin in good standing. * Basic Life Support (BLS) required ...

Associate degree in nursing required * Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred * Possession of a current or compact state licensure as a Registered Nurse issued/defined by the State of Iowa

Requirements • Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or Baccalaureate School of Nursing • Current, unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse in the state of practice • Current CPR ...

Requirements • Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or Baccalaureate School of Nursing • Current, unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse in the state of practice • Current CPR ...

Requirements • Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or Baccalaureate School of Nursing • Current, unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse in the state of practice • Current CPR ...

Requirements • Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or Baccalaureate School of Nursing • Current, unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse in the state of practice • Current CPR ...

Requirements • Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or Baccalaureate School of Nursing • Current, unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse in the state of practice • Current CPR ...

Requirements • Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or Baccalaureate School of Nursing • Current, unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse in the state of practice • Current CPR ...

Requirements • Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or Baccalaureate School of Nursing • Current, unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse in the state of practice • Current CPR ...

Requirements • Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or Baccalaureate School of Nursing • Current, unrestricted state license as a Registered Nurse in the state of practice • Current CPR ...

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Associate Rn information

See Iowa salary details

$21.1K

$54.1K

$78.4K

How much do associate rn jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate rn in Iowa is $54,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,200.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Associate RNs when transitioning from school to a clinical setting?

Associate RNs often encounter challenges such as managing a fast-paced workload, adapting to shift work, and handling high patient acuity during their transition from academic to clinical environments. Building confidence in clinical decision-making and prioritizing patient care tasks while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams are key hurdles. Many new RNs find that seeking mentorship, utilizing orientation programs, and actively communicating with experienced nurses can greatly ease this transition and promote professional growth.

Can you do anything with an associate's in nursing?

An associate's in nursing prepares individuals to become registered nurses (RNs), allowing them to provide patient care in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. It also provides a foundation for advanced education or specialization in nursing fields. RNs with this degree typically need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to practice legally.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate RN, you need a solid grounding in clinical nursing practices, patient care, and a current registered nursing license, typically earned through an associate degree in nursing (ADN). Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), basic medical equipment, and hospital protocols is essential. Strong communication, teamwork, and empathy are vital soft skills to provide effective patient support and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and compassionate care, which is critical to patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.

What is an RN associate?

An RN associate typically refers to a registered nurse who has completed an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and is licensed to provide patient care. They work in various healthcare settings, performing tasks such as administering medications, monitoring patient conditions, and collaborating with healthcare teams. Certification and licensing are required to practice as an RN associate.

Can I do anything with an associate's in nursing?

An associate's degree in nursing qualifies individuals to become registered nurses (RNs), allowing them to provide patient care, administer medications, and collaborate with healthcare teams. RNs can work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, often requiring passing the NCLEX-RN exam and obtaining licensure. Additional certifications may expand job opportunities and responsibilities within the nursing field.

How to make $200,000 a year as a nurse?

To earn $200,000 annually as an associate registered nurse, professionals often pursue specialized certifications, gain extensive experience, and work in high-paying settings such as travel nursing, critical care, or nurse anesthetist roles. Working overtime, taking on leadership positions, or relocating to areas with higher pay can also increase earnings, but reaching this level typically requires advanced skills and additional qualifications beyond standard RN licensure.

What can I do with a nurse associate degree?

An Associate RN degree qualifies individuals to work as registered nurses in various healthcare settings, providing patient care, administering medications, and collaborating with medical teams. It also serves as a foundation for further education or specialization in nursing. Certification and licensing are required to practice as an RN.

What are Associate RNs?

Associate RNs are registered nurses who have earned an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), typically through a two-year college program. They are fully licensed to practice as registered nurses after passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Associate RNs perform many of the same duties as nurses with a bachelor's degree, including patient care, administering medications, and collaborating with healthcare teams. While some employers may prefer or require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Associate RNs are qualified for a wide range of nursing positions, especially in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

What is the difference between Associate Rn vs Licensed Practical Nurse?

AspectAssociate RnLicensed Practical Nurse
Required CredentialsAssociate Degree in Nursing (ADN), RN licensePractical Nursing diploma or certificate, LPN license
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care, outpatient facilitiesLong-term care, nursing homes, clinics, hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesAssessments, care planning, administering medications, patient educationBasic patient care, vital signs, medication administration under supervision

The main difference between an Associate Rn and a Licensed Practical Nurse is the level of education and scope of practice. RNs typically hold an associate degree and have a broader scope of responsibilities, including care planning and assessments. LPNs have a practical nursing diploma and focus on basic patient care under supervision. Both roles are vital in healthcare settings, but RNs generally have more advanced training and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rn jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Rn jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Associate Rn jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Associate Rn job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Rn job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,106 per year, or $26 per hour.

RN New Graduate

Access Dubuque

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$32.73/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

RN New Graduate

UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital

1 Positions

ID: 43830303

Posted On 07/16/2025

Refreshed On 06/22/2026

Job Overview

  • Area of Interest: Nursing

  • Sign On Bonus: $10,000

  • FTE/Hours per pay period: .90

  • Department: Human Resources

  • Shift: Full-time: Days or Nights

  • Job ID: 168393

Overview

RN New Grad

Openings in Med/Surg, Acute Rehab, ICU, ER, OB, Geropsych

Full or Part-time, Days or Night shifts

New Grad Starting pay is $32.73/hr

Shift Differentials: 3pm-11pm is $5.00/hr and 11pm-7am is $7.50/hr

Weekend Differentials: $7.50/hr for your every 3rd weekend rotation

Career Launch Agreement is offered to all new grads: $2,000/month stipend for 6 months prior to licensure, eligible for a $500 Bonus once boards are passed!

Sign-On Bonus: $10,000 for a 2 year commitment

Why is Med/Surg a valuable start for new grads?

  1. Opportunities for Growth : Med/surg units offer a wide range of opportunities for growth and development. New grad nurses can learn a variety of skills and gain experience in different areas of nursing, which can help them advance their careers.

  2. Diverse Patient Population : Med/surg units provide care to a diverse patient population, which can help new grad nurses develop their clinical skills and gain experience working with patients from different backgrounds.

  3. Teamwork and Collaboration : Med/surg units require a high level of teamwork and collaboration, which can help new grad nurses build strong relationships with their colleagues and develop their communication skills.

  4. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving : Med/surg units require nurses to think critically and solve problems quickly, which can help new grad nurses develop their critical thinking skills and become more confident in their abilities.

  5. Patient Advocacy : Med/surg nurses are often the first line of defense for patients, which can help new grad nurses develop their patient advocacy skills and learn how to advocate for their patients’ needs.

Why UnityPoint Health?

At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in.  Here are just a few:    

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.

  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.

  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.

Responsibilities

  • Delivers high quality care utilizing the nursing process while demonstrating knowledge and clinical skills of the specialty required on assigned unit in accordance with established policies, procedures and standards of care.

  • Consults appropriate resources within the hospital to provide specialized education.

  • Demonstrates knowledge that patient and workplace safety is a priority by preventing errors, accidents and infections and reporting potential or actual concerns immediately.

  • Promptly completes documentation to assure an accurate legal record of patient’s care.

  • Continues professional development and involvement in professional activities that enhance nursing practice by sharing knowledge through networking and research.

Qualifications

  • Graduate of an accredited nursing program (must obtain BSN within 12 years of hire)

  • Current licensure in good standing to practice as a Registered Nurse in Iowa

  • Must possess and maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Primary Contact

13511

Michelle Pickel

HR Recruiter, HR

563-589-2608

Phone

Phone

Phone

Fax

[email protected]

Email

True

False

False

Job Details

Categories

Health Care

Location

Dubuque, IA

Job Type

Employee

Full/Part

Full Time

Company ID

168

Job REQ #

43830303

# Positions

1

Start Date

20250716

End Date

20260804

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UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital

About the Company

A CAREER AT UNITYPOINT HEALTH - FINLEY HOSPITAL

UnityPoint Health team members come for a job, but stay for a career. As a team member, regardless of your position, you'll get the chance to change lives on a daily basis in order to deliver our vision of the Best Outcome for Every Patient, Every Time. That privilege drives employees' passion for making a difference in the lives of our patients, helping them create healthier, more rewarding lives.

At UnityPoint Health - Finley Hospital, we know our collective actions determine the experience we create. Our team members strive to work as one through four key values:

  • Foster Unity

  • Own the Moment

  • Champion Excellence

  • Seize Opportunity

If you are interested in joining our team, please visit http://www.unitypoint.org/dubuque/employment-opportunities to learn about our many opportunities and to fill out an online application.

ABOUT OUR HOSPITAL

UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital is a 126-bed community hospital. We employ more than 800 full-and-part-time employees. Finley Hospital is a not-for-profit, locally owned, regional healthcare facility part of the UnityPoint Health system. Finley Hospital is committed to bringing the best medical care to the tri-state area. We offer comprehensive, full service health care that is coordinated around our patients. We have consistently been recognized as a leader in health care.