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Entry Level Nicu Nurse Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Stability Healthcare is seeking a travel nurse RN NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care for a travel nursing job in Pomona, California. & Requirements * Specialty: NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care

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Entry Level Nicu Nurse information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$652

$2.6K

$3.9K

How much do entry level nicu nurse jobs pay per week?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level nicu nurse in Riverside, CA is $2,555.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,946.15 and $3,109.62 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level NICU nurse?

An entry level NICU nurse is a registered nurse who has recently begun working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). These nurses care for newborns who are premature, critically ill, or require specialized medical attention. Entry level NICU nurses work under the guidance of more experienced nurses and physicians, helping with monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and providing support to families. They typically have completed their nursing degree and obtained licensure, and may receive additional on-the-job training specific to neonatal care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level NICU nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level NICU Nurse, you need a nursing degree, RN licensure, and foundational knowledge in neonatal care. Familiarity with NICU-specific equipment, electronic health records (EHRs), and basic life support certifications (such as NRP) is essential. Strong communication, emotional resilience, and teamwork skills help you support vulnerable infants and collaborate with families and healthcare teams. These competencies are crucial for delivering safe, effective care in the high-stakes, emotionally charged NICU environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level NICU nurses, and how can new hires best prepare for them?

Entry-level NICU nurses often encounter challenges such as adapting to the high-intensity environment, managing the emotional aspects of caring for critically ill newborns, and learning to use specialized equipment. New hires can best prepare by seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, participating in orientation and ongoing training programs, and developing strong communication skills to coordinate with interdisciplinary teams. Being proactive about asking questions and taking advantage of support resources can also ease the transition and build confidence in this rewarding but demanding role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nicu Nurse vs Pediatric Nurse?

AspectEntry Level Nicu NursePediatric Nurse
CertificationsRN license, Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)RN license, Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
Work EnvironmentNeonatal intensive care units, specialized neonatal careGeneral pediatric wards, clinics, outpatient settings
Employer & IndustryHospitals, neonatal specialty clinicsHospitals, pediatric clinics, community health centers

Entry Level Nicu Nurses and Pediatric Nurses both require RN licensure and specialized certifications like NRP and PALS. While NICU nurses focus on neonatal intensive care units with highly specialized neonatal care, pediatric nurses work in broader pediatric settings caring for children of all ages. The roles overlap in patient care but differ in environment and specific skills required.

How much does an entry level NICU nurse make starting out?

An entry-level NICU nurse typically earns between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on location, healthcare facility, and certifications such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP). Starting salaries may also vary based on shift differentials and experience with neonatal care tools and procedures.

Is it hard to get hired as an entry level NICU nurse?

Entry level NICU nurses typically need a valid nursing license and some clinical experience, often gained through internships or externships. Competition can vary depending on location and hospital needs, but strong clinical skills and relevant certifications like Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) can improve hiring prospects.

Where do I start to become an entry level NICU nurse?

To become an entry-level NICU nurse, you need to earn a nursing degree such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam, and obtain a registered nurse license. Gaining experience through clinical rotations in neonatal or pediatric units and obtaining certifications like Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) can improve job prospects in the NICU environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nicu Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Nicu Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Nicu Nurse jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Nicu Nurse job openings:

Travel NICU RN

Pomona, CA • On-site

Stability Healthcare
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 201 - 500 employees

Contractor

Medical, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Stability Healthcare is seeking a travel nurse RN NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care for a travel nursing job in Pomona, California.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care
  • Discipline: RN
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 48 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

Stability Healthcare is looking for a NICU RN contract position in Pomona, CA. NICU nurses provide care for newborns needing close monitoring due to premature birth, defects, infection, or other medical conditions requiring surgery or therapy. As a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse, you'll work under the direction of a physician, caring for the newborn, and helping to educate parents.

*$600 travel bonus *Day 1 health insurance with United Healthcare *PTO plan -- start accruing on day 1, use during contract or cash out at the end! *Guaranteed stipend if facility calls you off *Extra hour bonus -- earn an additional hourly bonus for working over your weekly contracted hours

Stability Healthcare Job ID #877876. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 48.0 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: NICU

About Stability Healthcare

Stability Healthcare was founded in 2009, with the mission of becoming the best Travel Nursing Agency in California. We have been rated one of the top travel nursing agencies and offer our nurses the highest paying travel nursing jobs available. We have access to the best travel assignments from 1000’s of facilities.

You can start the year off in sunny California, spend the Spring in the Colorado Rockies, enjoy the Summer in the Mid-West, experience the change of seasons in Boston and New York, and hit the beaches of Florida in the winter. Our Nurses work in the best hospitals and health systems in the country.

Benefits
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Benefits start day 1

Stability Healthcare logo

About Stability Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Stability Healthcare was founded in 2009, with the mission of becoming the best Travel Nursing Agency in California. We have been rated one of the top travel nursing agencies and offer our nurses the highest paying travel nursing jobs available. We have access to the best travel assignments from 1000's of facilities. You can start the year off in sunny California, spend the Spring in the Colorado Rockies, enjoy the Summer in the Mid-West, experience the change of seasons in Boston and New York, and hit the beaches of Florida in the winter. Our Nurses work in the best hospitals and health systems in the country.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2009