1

Associate Rn Jobs in Waukee, IA (NOW HIRING)

Associates RN degree required, Bachelor's degree preferred. Experience: Two years of experience in managed care quality assurance or utilization review. RN must have two years of experience in an ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Rn information

See Waukee, IA salary details

$21.6K

$55.2K

$80.1K

How much do associate rn jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate rn in Waukee, IA is $55,243.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,900.00 and $70,500.00 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 Waukee, IA? The most popular types of Rn jobs in Waukee, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Rn jobs in Waukee, IA? For Associate Rn jobs in Waukee, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Rn jobs in Waukee, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Rn jobs in Waukee, IA are:
What cities near Waukee, IA are hiring for Associate Rn jobs? Cities near Waukee, IA with the most Associate Rn job openings:

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Registered Nurse (RN) - Rehabilitation
$15,000 Sign-on Bonus with 30-month commitment to that role.
Job Type: Full-Time Day Shift  0700-1930

People are our passion and purpose.

Come work where you are appreciated for who you are not just what you can do. MercyOne Clive Rehabilitation Hospital is a state-of-the-art, 50-bed inpatient acute rehabilitation hospital dedicated to the treatment and recovery of individuals who have experienced the debilitating effects of a severe injury or illness. Our rehabilitation programs provide ongoing care and specialized treatment to patients throughout their recovery journey. We offer customized, individualized rehabilitation tailored to the specific needs of those recovering from a stroke, brain injury, neurological conditions, trauma, spinal cord injury, amputation, and orthopedic injury. We strive to maximize the health, function, and quality of life of those we serve through comprehensive physical medicine and rehabilitation programs.

Where We Are:

Clive, Iowa is a thriving suburb of Des Moines, known for its upscale residential areas, well-maintained landscapes, and convenient location. It serves as a central hub for the western Des Moines suburbs, situated between Urbandale, Waukee, and West Des Moines. Clive offers a blend of urban convenience and peaceful suburban living, with attractions like the Greenbelt Park and trail system, the Clive Aquatic Center, and various community events

How you'll contribute

A registered nurse in this role:

  • Provides planning and delivery of direct and indirect patient care through the nursing process of Assessment, Planning, Intervention, and Evaluation.

  • Develop nursing care plans in coordination with patient, family and interdisciplinary staff as necessary.

  • Communicates changes in patient's clinical condition with Physicians, Nursing Supervisor/Manager, and co-workers as appropriate. 

  • Participates in discharges planning process.

Why join us 

We believe that investing in our employees is the first step to providing excellent patient care. In addition to your base compensation, this position also offers:   

  • Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple levels of medical, dental and vision coverage for full-time and part-time employees. 

  • Financial Protection & PTO: Life, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity insurance, short- and long-term disability, paid family leave and paid time off. 

  • Financial & Career Growth: Higher education and certification tuition assistance, loan assistance and 401(k) retirement package and company match. 

  • Employee Well-being: Mental, physical, and financial wellness programs (free gym memberships, virtual care appointments, mental health services and discount programs). 

  • Professional Development: Ongoing learning and career advancement opportunities. 

What we're looking for 

  • Graduation from an accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Associate Degree in Nursing or Nursing Diploma program.

  • Current state license as Registered Nurse

  • Iowa Mandatory Reporter - Dependent Adult and Child

  • CPR/BCLS certification

Preferred Qualifications:

  • CRRN (Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse)

  • One year of Medical/Surgical or Acute Rehab experience

EEOC Statement:

MercyOne Clive Rehabilitation Center is committed to providing Equal Employment Opportunities for all applicants and employees and complies with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment because of color, race, sex, age, religion, national origin, disability, genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, veterans' status or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Lifepoint Health is a leader in community-based care and driven by a mission of Making Communities Healthier. Our diversified healthcare delivery network spans 29 states and includes 63 community hospital campuses, 32 rehabilitation and behavioral health hospitals, and more than 170 additional sites of care across the healthcare continuum, such as acute rehabilitation units, outpatient centers and post-acute care facilities. We believe that success is achieved through talented people. We want to create places where employees want to work, with opportunities to pursue meaningful and satisfying careers that truly make a difference in communities across the country. 

Trinity Health is one of the largest not-for-profit, Catholic healthcare systems in the nation. Built on the foundation of our Mission and Core Values, we integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. Our colleagues have different lived experiences, customs, abilities, and talents. Together, we become our best selves. A diverse and inclusive workforce provides the most accessible and equitable care for those we serve. Trinity Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.

Lifepoint Health is a leader in community-based care and driven by a mission of Making Communities Healthier. Our diversified healthcare delivery network spans 29 states and includes 63 community hospital campuses, 32 rehabilitation and behavioral health hospitals, and more than 170 additional sites of care across the healthcare continuum, such as acute rehabilitation units, outpatient centers and post-acute care facilities. We believe that success is achieved through talented people. We want to create places where employees want to work, with opportunities to pursue meaningful and satisfying careers that truly make a difference in communities across the country.