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Associate Rn Jobs in Smithfield, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Rn information

See Smithfield, NC salary details

$19.5K

$49.9K

$72.3K

How much do associate rn jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate rn in Smithfield, NC is $49,881.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,300.00 and $63,600.00 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 Smithfield, NC? The most popular types of Rn jobs in Smithfield, NC are:
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What job categories do people searching Associate Rn jobs in Smithfield, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Rn jobs in Smithfield, NC are:
What cities near Smithfield, NC are hiring for Associate Rn jobs? Cities near Smithfield, NC with the most Associate Rn job openings:
Associate Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Rn job openings in Smithfield, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,881 per year, or $24 per hour.
Registered Nurse (RN) - Neonatal ICU

Registered Nurse (RN) - Neonatal ICU

WakeMed

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

WakeMed rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
The Clinical Nurse is responsible for providing total comprehensive nursing to patients and their families through the implementation of a plan of care. The plan is based upon the patient's developmental and health care needs identified through the assessment of the patient's physical, psychological, socioeconomic status, and physician orders regarding care, treatment, and education. The Clinical Nurse understands the needs of the organization and supports the mission, values, and management of patient care services. The Clinical Nurse actively supports and incorporates ANA Scope and Standards of Nursing Practice, North Carolina Board of Nursing Practice Act, WakeMed's Division of Nursing Professional Practice model, and WakeMed's Patient & Family Centered Care (PFCC) model. The four key concepts of PFCC are: Dignity and Respect = Listen to and honor patient and family perspectives and choices; Information Sharing = Communicate and share complete and unbiased information with patients and families in ways that are affirming and useful; Participation = Patients and families are encouraged and supported in participating in care and decision-making at the level they choose; Collaboration = Patients and families and the Clinical Nurse collaborate in the delivery of care. The highly specialized Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery (NICU) offers 48 patient beds, including 26 single private rooms. Registered Nurses will provide family centered care and work with a highly skilled neonatology staff. The NICU provides care for premature and critically ill babies, admitting more than 600 infants each year. The Registered Nurse will care for infants that have life-threatening or potentially life-threatening disorders, requiring constant monitoring and immediate nursing and medical intervention, in an environment that optimizes neurological growth and infant outcomes.
Department Description
Nursing Benefits/Highlights:
  • Career Ladder - RN I - IV, depending on education and experience
  • Sign-On Bonus and/or Relocation Incentive available for select positions
  • Competitive Benefits Package
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  • Free Onsite Parking
  • Professional Development Opportunities

Serving the community since 1961, WakeMed Health & Hospitals is the leading provider of health services in Wake County. With a mission to improve the health and well-being of our community, we are committed to providing outstanding and compassionate care. For more information, visit www.wakemed.org .
EOE
Licensure
Registered Nurse Required
Education
Diploma Nursing Required - Or Associate's Degree Nursing Required
Experience
No Experience Required

What WakeMed employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About WakeMed

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Serving the community since 1961, WakeMed Health & Hospitals is the leading provider of health services in Wake County. With a mission to improve the health and well-being of our community, we are committed to providing outstanding and compassionate care.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1961

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