1

Associate Rn Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

RN, Operating Room Allen Hospital - Waterloo, IA Full-time Flex Shifts: 10 hours shifts starting at ... To function as primary care leader, associate, or charge nurse so that optimum quality of patient ...

Overview RN, Operating Room Allen Hospital - Waterloo, IA Full-time Flex Shifts: 10 hours shifts ... To function as primary care leader, associate, or charge nurse so that optimum quality of patient ...

Registered Nurse Resource/Float Inpatient Allen Hospital, Waterloo, IA Full-time Hours, Day (7am ... Associates Degree in Nursing. * Current license in the state of Iowa or meets criteria established ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Rn information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$22.2K

$56.8K

$82.3K

How much do associate rn jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate rn in Waterloo, IA is $56,801.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to make $150,000 as a nurse?

An Associate RN can earn $150,000 by gaining specialized certifications, working in high-demand areas such as travel nursing or critical care, and taking on overtime or per diem shifts. Advancing to roles like Nurse Manager or Nurse Practitioner can also increase earning potential, often requiring additional education and experience.

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.

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 does a nurse associate do?

A nurse associate is a healthcare professional who provides basic patient care, assists registered nurses and doctors, monitors patient conditions, and performs tasks such as taking vital signs and administering medications under supervision. They work in clinical settings like hospitals and clinics, often requiring certification or training in healthcare support. Their role supports patient recovery and ensures smooth healthcare operations.

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 can an RN with an associate's degree do?

An RN with an associate's degree can provide patient care in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings, performing tasks such as administering medications, monitoring patient conditions, and assisting with procedures. They are licensed to work independently within their scope of practice and may pursue further certifications or education to advance their careers.

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.

Where can I work with an Associates RN?

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) qualifies individuals to work as registered nurses in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and community health organizations. RNs with an ADN can provide patient care, perform assessments, and collaborate with healthcare teams, often requiring passing the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rn jobs in Waterloo, IA? The most popular types of Rn jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Rn jobs in Waterloo, IA? For Associate Rn jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Rn jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Rn jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Associate Rn jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Associate Rn job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Rn job openings in Waterloo, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,801 per year, or $27.3 per hour.
Specialty Nurse - Psychiatry Clinic

Specialty Nurse - Psychiatry Clinic

UnityPoint Health

Cedar Falls, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 873 rated healthcare providers


Job description

UnityPoint Clinic

Registered Nurse (RN) Specialty Clinic - Psychiatry 

0.6 FTE


At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 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 focused on 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, health and vision 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.

Join our team of experts and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.


  • Patient Assessment & Triage
    • Evaluate incoming patient phone calls to determine the urgency of symptoms and appropriate next steps.
    • Provide telephone triage and guide patients to the right level of care or follow-up.
  • Care Coordination
    • Assist in coordinating urgent and emergent care for patients 
    • Communicate efficiently with neurologists and clinical team members to ensure timely and effective care.
  • Patient & Family Education
    • Educate patients and caregivers on neurological conditions, treatments, and home care strategies.
    • Offer ongoing support and resources tailored to each patient’s needs.
  • Clinical Documentation & Follow-Up
    • Accurately document all patient interactions, assessments, and care plans using the electronic health record (EHR).
    • Track patient outcomes and coordinate follow-up care to ensure continuity.

  • Licensure: Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in Iowa
  • Experience: All levels of RN experience will be considered. Prior experience in Psychiatry Nursing is a plus, but not required.
  • Education: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) required; Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred.

What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


UnityPoint Health logo

About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995