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Entry Level Nicu Rn Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Travel NICU RN

Apple Valley, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

TNAA TotalMed RN is seeking a travel nurse RN NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care for a travel nursing job in Apple Valley, California. & Requirements * Specialty: NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care

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Entry Level Nicu Rn information

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

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level nicu rn in California is $2,433.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,898.08 and $2,865.38 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level NICU RN?

Entry level NICU RNs are registered nurses who are new to working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). They provide specialized care for newborns who are premature, ill, or require close monitoring after birth. These nurses work alongside experienced NICU staff to assess, monitor, and support infants and their families, often participating in ongoing training and mentorship programs. Entry level NICU RNs typically have a nursing degree, a valid RN license, and may receive additional orientation or certifications specific to neonatal care.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level NICU RNs, and how can they successfully adapt to this environment?

Entry-level NICU RNs often encounter challenges such as managing high-stress situations, quickly learning specialized neonatal care procedures, and adapting to the emotional demands of working with critically ill infants and their families. Success in this environment comes from strong mentorship, effective communication with a multidisciplinary team, and continuous learning. New nurses benefit from asking questions, seeking feedback, and utilizing available support resources to build confidence and competence in this rewarding but demanding specialty.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level NICU RN, you need a nursing degree (ADN or BSN), RN licensure, and a foundational understanding of neonatal care and patient assessment. Familiarity with neonatal monitoring equipment, electronic health records (EHRs), and certifications like BLS and NRP are typically required. Compassion, strong communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for supporting families and collaborating with NICU teams. These skills ensure safe, effective care for vulnerable newborns and foster trust with families during critical moments.

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

An entry-level NICU RN typically earns between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on location, hospital size, and shift differentials. Starting salaries may also include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, with additional compensation for night or weekend shifts.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nicu Rn vs Registered Nurse?

AspectEntry Level Nicu RnRegistered Nurse
CertificationsRN license, Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)RN license, may include specialty certifications
Work EnvironmentNeonatal intensive care units, hospitalsVarious settings including hospitals, clinics, community health
Job FocusCare for critically ill newborns in NICUGeneral patient care across different populations

Entry Level Nicu Rns specialize in neonatal intensive care, requiring specific certifications like NRP, and work exclusively in NICUs. Registered Nurses have broader roles across multiple healthcare settings, with a general RN license. While both roles require RN licensure, Entry Level Nicu Rns focus on neonatal care, making their scope more specialized compared to the general responsibilities of Registered Nurses.

How to get started as an entry level NICU RN?

To start as an entry-level NICU RN, obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an associate degree in nursing, pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed, and gain clinical experience in neonatal or pediatric care. Certification in neonatal resuscitation (NRP) is often required or preferred, and strong skills in patient assessment and teamwork are essential for working in the NICU environment.

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

Securing an entry-level NICU RN position can be competitive due to high demand for neonatal nurses, but candidates with a valid nursing license, neonatal care certification, and clinical experience in pediatrics or intensive care have better chances. Strong skills in patient assessment, teamwork, and familiarity with neonatal equipment are also important for hiring considerations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nicu Rn jobs in California?

The most popular types of Nicu Rn jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Nicu Rn jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Nicu Rn job openings:

Travel NICU RN

TNAA TotalMed RN

Apple Valley, CA โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

TNAA TotalMed RN is seeking a travel nurse RN NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care for a travel nursing job in Apple Valley, California.

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

We're looking for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit RNs for an immediate travel nurse opening in Apple Valley, CA. The right RN should have 1-2 years' recent acute care experience. Read below for more requirements.
As a NICU RN, you'll provide critical care to sick and premature infants. Alongside the rest of the care team, NICU RNs assist in providing round-the-clock care to these patients and support to the parents. Parental support can range from emotional encouragement to advising parents on the proper care of their infant when they return home.
As a NICU Travel Nurse, you should be prepared to perform the following tasks:

  • Care for infants transitioning to extra uterine life.
  • Monitor vital signs and initiate corrective action when necessary.
  • Provide nutritional assessment and specialized feedings.
  • Change dressings, insert catheters, start IVs.
  • Provide arterial and intravenous therapy.
  • Monitor and adjust specialized equipment used on patients, such as incubators and ventilators.
NICU Travel Nurses should be able to stand and walk for long periods of time, as well as bend, lean and stoop without difficulty. RNs should be able to easily lift 10-20 pounds of equipment at times. NICU Travel Nurses may face hazards from exposure to chemicals and infectious diseases.
Requirements*: BLS, NRP, PALS, 2 Years
* Additional certifications may be required before beginning an assignment.

TotalMed Travel Job ID #1474958. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit - NICU RN - Travel Nurse

About TNAA TotalMed RN

TotalMed is a Top Ten, travel nursing and healthcare staffing agency with the mission of igniting purpose in healthcare. The organization staffs nurses, therapists, pharmacists, and other clinicians of all specialties in all 50 states. They offer local and travel jobs and match caregivers with the right organization to assist both facilities and patients. As an organization, they focus on putting highly-skilled staff into facilities to ensure adequate staffing for a better patient experience.


TotalMed specializes in recruiting and placing healthcare professionals in travel, PRN, and permanent positions across the country in Nursing and Allied Health. Throughout 2020, the organization filled roles at even the most short-staffed facilities during the most challenging time in healthcare. By matching the right travel healthcare professional with the right organization, TotalMed continues to offer a lifeline to facilities and their patients.

Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Continuing Education
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Sick pay
  • Wellness and fitness programs
  • Referral bonus
  • Employee assistance programs
  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits
  • Benefits start day 1